According to ESPN: University of Tennessee Marching Band, Renowned as “The Showband of the Center Eastern Tennessee,” Selected to Perform at Super Bowl Halftime Show
In a historic and unprecedented announcement, ESPN has confirmed that the University of Tennessee’s famed marching band—proudly known as “The Showband of the Center Eastern Tennessee”—has been officially selected to perform during the halftime show of the upcoming Super Bowl.
The decision marks a major moment not only for the university but also for college marching bands nationwide, as this is the first time a full collegiate marching band has been selected to headline a Super Bowl halftime performance in over three decades.
The news broke earlier this afternoon during ESPN’s live broadcast, where reporters praised the band’s rich tradition, powerful sound, and visually stunning field performances. The selection process, which typically leans toward A-list recording artists and chart-topping performers, took a dramatic twist this year when NFL officials and halftime producers were “blown away” by the band’s performance during last year’s nationally televised rivalry game between Tennessee and Alabama.
“We were looking for something different, something powerful, and something uniquely American,” said event producer Kayla Jameson, who is part of the NFL’s halftime show committee. “When we saw the Showband of the Center Eastern Tennessee, we knew we’d found something truly special. This isn’t just a band—they’re an experience.”
Known for their intricate formations, musical versatility, and unmistakable orange-and-white uniforms, the Tennessee marching band has been a staple of college football pageantry for generations. Whether delivering booming renditions of “Rocky Top” or dazzling audiences with high-energy drill routines, the band has earned accolades across the country. Now, they’re preparing to take their talents to the biggest stage in American sports.
Dr. Marshall Greene, director of bands at the University of Tennessee, called the invitation “an unbelievable honor” and credited the students and staff for years of hard work and dedication.
“Our students put in countless hours during the season—early mornings, late nights, rain or shine,” Greene said. “To receive this kind of recognition on a national level is a dream come true. We’re honored to represent the university, the state of Tennessee, and the spirit of college marching bands everywhere.”
The band is expected to collaborate with several surprise musical guests during the performance, though details remain tightly under wraps. According to ESPN, rehearsals are already underway, and the university has launched a massive fundraising and support campaign to ensure the band’s travel and logistics are fully covered.
The Tennessee community has responded with overwhelming pride. Alumni, students, and fans have flooded social media with celebratory posts using the trending hashtag #ShowbandToTheSuperBowl.
“This is huge for the band, huge for the school, and huge for college music programs,” said UT alumnus and former band member Rachel Lopez. “It shows the world what we’ve known all along—this band is world-class.”
As anticipation builds toward Super Bowl Sunday, one thing is clear: this halftime show will be unlike anything we’ve seen before. With a blend of Southern flair, musical excellence, and a touch of Volunteer spirit, the Showband of the Center Eastern Tennessee is ready to make history.
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potlight on the band’s history.
