Atlanta continues the reign of top high school marching bands and boosts HBCU band pipelines

Once again, Atlanta proves itself as the city for black cultural traditions.

The southern hotspot continues its reign as host to the nation’s top high school marching bands. Westlake High School, located in the southwestern part of Atlanta, currently ranks ranked No. 1 on ESPN’s 2025 Red Lobster Band of the Year for the Metro Atlanta high school division.

According to HBCU game daythe ranking is based on criteria such as Musicality, Graphics/Drill & Design, Drum Majors and Auxiliaries. These essential components of a competitive marching band and showcase typically begin on high school teams. Many members often transition to performance at the collegiate level, primarily at HBCUs across the country.

Westlake topped the rankings for the second month in a row with 581 points in total. Led by band director Cedric Young, the school band also has a chance to compete for the title of Red Lobster Band of the Year.

“Being ranked No. 1 two months in a row is a reflection of the hard work, discipline and heart that our students bring to Westlake every day,” Young said in a statement. “Our band is more than a halftime show – we are a classroom, a family and a voice for our community, and we are honored that America hears that voice.”

The judges will select the top two HBCU and high school bands to compete during the show at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. At the showdown in December they will compete for the coveted title of best band at their level of competition.

As for Metro Atlanta High School’s rankings, Jonesboro High School follows with just over 549 points. Close behind are New Manchester, Tri-Cities and Southwest DeKalb High School, all still above the 500 point mark. The latter two hold widely known marching band programs. Therefore, they will aim to push through the rankings to further their legacy.

Marching bands are more than a sporting tradition; they are a pillar of HBCU culture. As the pipeline between high schools and HBCU marching bands grows stronger, Atlanta has become a hub for this next generation.

Those who want to catch the final match can attend or watch it live on ESPN3 and ESPN+.

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