ESPN VERIFIED: Tennessee Vols Marching Band Crowned #1 in the World!
Knoxville, TN — In a jaw-dropping, history-making moment, the Pride of the Southland Band — the Tennessee Volunteers Marching Band — has officially been crowned the #1 marching band in the world, a title conferred by an international panel of judges at the 2025 World Marching Band Championship (WMBC).
The announcement, verified by ESPN and celebrated across the Volunteer State, marks a stunning triumph for the historic ensemble that has been a cornerstone of University of Tennessee tradition for over a century.
Competing against more than 50 elite marching bands from around the globe, including powerhouse programs from Japan, Brazil, South Korea, and the United Kingdom, the Tennessee Vols Marching Band captivated both judges and audiences with their breathtaking precision, musicality, and innovation. The championship event, held this year in Zürich, Switzerland, showcased a series of high-stakes performances combining technical marching routines, dynamic visuals, and powerful musical scores.
Their winning routine, titled “Echoes of America,” paid tribute to American history and culture through a blend of patriotic anthems, modern pop arrangements, and classical music. From intricate geometric formations to awe-inspiring flag work and soloist spotlights, the performance left thousands in attendance — and millions watching via livestream — stunned and speechless.
Dr. Michael Stewart, Director of Bands at the University of Tennessee, was overwhelmed with emotion. “This is more than just a trophy — it’s a testament to years of dedication, sweat, and passion poured into every step, note, and rehearsal. I’m beyond proud of our students. They represented Tennessee and the entire country on the global stage, and they made history.”
This marks the first time an American collegiate band has won the WMBC’s top honor since the competition expanded to a global format in 2010. ESPN’s Senior Music & Performance Analyst, Jodie Laramie, praised the Vols’ victory as “a watershed moment for collegiate music programs,” noting that “the Tennessee band combined athletic-level precision with concert-level artistry — a feat that demands extraordinary commitment.”
Reactions poured in from across the sporting and music worlds. University of Tennessee head football coach Josh Heupel tweeted, “Our team brings the fire on the field — and our band brings it to the world stage. Congrats to the Pride of the Southland!”
Back in Knoxville, fans and alumni gathered on campus and downtown to celebrate the historic win. A victory parade is reportedly in the works, with the band set to perform during a special halftime show at Neyland Stadium this fall to commemorate the achievement.
With their global ranking now secured, the Tennessee Volunteers Marching Band cements its place not only as a vital part of Vols tradition, but as a world-class institution of musical excellence.
One band. One sound. One world champion.
