The Dynamic History of HBCU Dance Teams

Historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) are renowned for their rich traditions, vibrant campus cultures, and significant contributions to Black history. Among the most exciting elements of the HBCU experience are the Greek life, cheer squads, social groups, campus organizations, and, notably, the marching bands and dance teams. These dance lines hold a special significance, embodying Black joy, Black excellence, and a legacy of pride and tradition. This article explores the dynamic history of HBCU dance teams, their evolution, cultural impact, and the vital role they play within the HBCU community.

The Origins of HBCU Marching Bands and Dance Teams

The modern HBCU marching band style can be traced back to June 1, 1946, with the establishment of the Marching "100" at Florida A&M College (FAMU), under the direction of Dr. William P. Foster. While other institutions, such as Tuskegee Institute, had military-style field bands earlier in the 1900s, the Marching "100" revolutionized the scene. Dr. Foster's vision transformed the band into a premier ensemble, known for its high-stepping, horn-swinging showmanship, infused with Black culture and excellence.

Nearly all HBCUs have since created marching bands in much the same style as Dr. Foster’s Marching “100,” with many adding their own flourishes or subsections, such as drum lines, dancers, majorettes, and pom-pom and flag teams.

In 1947, HBCU bands shifted from the traditional corporal marching-band style to "showtime band," which incorporated dancing by the band members themselves. This transition brought about a change in style for the bands' dance teams, becoming more stylized over the years to match the music.

The Style and Evolution of HBCU Dance Teams

From their inception, HBCU marching bands have sought to entertain Black audiences by infusing traditional marching band styles with African aesthetics. This has resulted in entertaining and meticulously planned performances that seek to connect the old and the new.

HBCU marching bands often coordinate band-wide dance routines and perform a mix of musical genres and songs made popular through Black culture, such as R&B, gospel, rap, and jazz. A review of the history of HBCU marching band performances through the decades is also a review of Black music and performance culture in general.

The specific style of dance teams varies from school to school, reflecting each institution's culture. For instance, the Dancing Dolls of Southern University in Louisiana are known for their prim and proper style, while schools in Mississippi and Florida incorporate a more hip-hop-based style.

Majorette dance, a signature element of HBCU culture, didn't begin as the bold, sexy performances we see today. The original majorettes, or “Dansmarietjes” in Dutch, were carnival dancers who used batons. As the style made its way to the American South, it evolved. According to Essence, the first Black majorette team to perform with a live marching band was Alcorn State University’s Golden Girls, who debuted in 1968 at the Orange Blossom Classic. A signature element of majorette dancing, “j-setting,” emerged in the early 1970s, popularized by Jackson State University’s Prancing J-Settes.

Key Elements of HBCU Dance Team Culture

Several key elements define the unique culture of HBCU dance teams:

Precision and Showmanship

HBCU dance teams are known for their sharp, explosive, and perfectly synchronized movements. They undergo rigorous training to ensure precision in drills and movements, spending countless hours practicing and rehearsing.

Cultural Expression

HBCU dance teams infuse their performances with Black culture and traditions, celebrating Black joy, Black excellence, and a legacy of pride. They often incorporate music, dance styles, and themes that resonate with the Black community.

Sisterhood and Camaraderie

The bond among HBCU dance team members is strong, often described as a sisterhood that extends beyond the stadium. They spend a lot of time together, practicing, rehearsing, and supporting each other. This camaraderie fosters lifelong friendships and a sense of belonging.

Individuality and Style

HBCU dance teams also allow for individuality and style, with many teams adding their own flourishes, subsections, or unique elements to their performances. This creativity and innovation contribute to the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of HBCU dance culture.

The Role of Dance Teams at HBCUs

HBCU bands operate as brand ambassadors for their universities. They’re also fundamental to HBCU recruiting and marketing efforts. As some of the most visible organizations for HBCUs off campus, marching bands allow these schools to gain visibility and prestige for more than academics.

More than simple entertainment, HBCU marching bands - particularly the FAMU Marching “100” - were part of a larger push for justice and anti-racism. Whether tacitly or explicitly, HBCU marching band performances not only seek to entertain audiences or market their universities but also exude Black joy and Black excellence. They challenge racist stereotypes that stigmatize HBCUs and Black communities.

Read also: Top HBCU Bands

Participating in HBCU marching bands also creates a unique bond among members and increases their confidence. Not only do they spend extra time practicing to ensure precision in drills and movements, but they also understand that they are carrying on a legacy of pride and tradition. In some instances, the children of marching band members may attend the same HBCU and become band members themselves. The reaction of audiences to the high-stepping and culturally grounded showcasing of HBCU marching bands, whether in a stadium or in a parade, is one of joy and excitement.

Entertainment and School Spirit

HBCU dance teams are a major source of entertainment and school spirit, performing at football games, halftime shows, parades, and other campus events. Their energetic and captivating performances create an atmosphere of excitement and pride.

Representation and Visibility

As some of the most visible organizations for HBCUs, dance teams play a vital role in representing their institutions and gaining visibility on regional and national stages. Their performances provide opportunities for HBCUs to reach wide television and social media audiences.

Recruitment and Fundraising

HBCU bands play a key role at HBCUs for recruiting and fundraising. Institutions often seek students who are members of predominantly Black high school bands. It is also common for a high school band director at a predominantly Black high school to be an alumnus of an HBCU marching band.

Personal Development and Leadership

Members of HBCU dance teams must learn to balance their academics and social life with the rigorous demands involved in practicing for performances. This also applies to those who join a band as an extracurricular activity, such as dancers, majorettes, and flag team members.

Traditions and Events

Several traditions and events are central to the HBCU dance team experience:

The Fifth Quarter

One exciting HBCU marching band tradition is what is known as the Fifth Quarter: a special, often dueling performance between the two HBCU bands after a football game. The bands or different sections of the bands trade riffs and songs. Fans and alumni often crowd around the band sections to enjoy these performances. The Fifth Quarter requires a mix of planning and spontaneity. These events are a form of friendly, but serious, competition between alumni, fans, and band members. Each side analyzes and appreciates the technical and artistic skill of the opposition as the bands perform. The way each band finishes its performance is also unique - HBCU marching bands have their own traditions and often end concerts with songs important to that band and fan base.

Homecoming

One of the most-anticipated events for HBCU marching bands, however, occurs during homecoming. Bands prepare their most elaborate field shows for the homecoming halftime show. And they’re usually the main attraction for the homecoming parade. Homecoming week typically sees the return of alumni to campus and large crowds at band practices leading up to the football game. Marked by excitement and performances, homecoming is the highlight of the year - and the most exhausting week - for HBCU band members.

The National Battle of the Bands

Another important event, the National Battle of the Bands (NBOTB), allows HBCU bands to compete on the field rather than in the stands. Each band performs its field show seeking to rouse and hype the crowd. Band members showcase their technical marching and playing skills, often in block formation marching routines while playing technical marches. Whether large-scale battles or rivalry showdowns, these events typically raise money for scholarships.

Challenges and Controversies

As HBCU dance teams have gained popularity and visibility, they have also faced challenges and controversies. Some have questioned whether the dances and costumes are appropriate for young Black girls, with concerns about hypersexuality.

However, many argue that bucking and other dance styles are not sexual but a way to acknowledge their roots and express themselves. Efforts have also been made to promote inclusivity, such as the development of plus-sized dance squads.

HBCU Dance Teams in Popular Culture

HBCU dance teams have made their way into popular culture through various channels:

Television and Film

Television series like Lifetime’s “Bring It” have brought majorette dance to a broader audience. Bethune-Cookman University’s marching band participated in the 2018 Netflix documentary “Marching Orders,” which highlighted the grueling process of auditioning and preparing for an HBCU marching band season.

Performances and Collaborations

Beyoncé’s HBCU homecoming-inspired performance at Coachella in 2018 put the phenomenon on a global stage.

Social Media and Viral Trends

The rise of social media has allowed HBCU dance teams to showcase their talent and reach a wider audience. Viral performances and trends have further propelled their popularity.

The Future of HBCU Dance Teams

As HBCU culture continues to rise in prominence, so too does the art of majorette dancing. From homecoming celebrations to viral social media performances, majorettes are everywhere.

The growth in popularity of HBCU bands has landed them performances worldwide, including at NFL games and Disney World events. The spread of HBCU majorette culture encourages those involved to help educate those curious on how to join.

With the registration on the rise, majorettes began to reclaim their spot as America’s sweethearts.

Princess Isis Lang recently broke the internet with the debut of her majorette dance team, the Cardinal Divas, of the University of Southern California. The viral move led to coverage on ESPN, Andscape, The Washington Post and a slot on The Jennifer Hudson Show.

“I believe we’ll start to see even more exposure on national stages,” Dr. Zachery says. “We already have many former dancers who are now dancing professionally and making their mark in various arenas. I believe we’ll see even more creativity from our teams as our members start to come from more diverse places.

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