Ocean of Soul Hold a Tribute for Kerr County at National Battle of the Bands

During the 2025 Pepsi National Battle of the Bands (NBOTB), hosted at Houston’s NRG Stadium, on August 23, Texas Southern University’s elite HBCU band, Ocean of Soul, represented Texas Southern and delivered a heartfelt tribute to Kerr County. 

Ocean of Soul’s field show opened with the band members in formation spelling K-E-R-R, as they executed a band arrangement of “Deep in the Heart of Texas.” The tribute honored the memory of the 119 victims from the Guadalupe River flooding on July 4th. 

Brandon L. Simmons, Board Chairman of Texas Southern University shared: “I was deeply moved watching Texas Southern University’s Ocean of Soul begin its performance with a profound homage to the victims of the tragic floods in Kerr County, Texas this summer… The band began quietly, ultimately crescendoing to a sound representing the strength of Texans even in times of unimaginable loss.”

Additionally, Brian K. Simmons, Ocean of Soul Band Director since 2021, shared: “It’s something that’s near and dear to my heart… We need to talk about some important things. We need to honor those that don’t have a voice at this moment… Music is a great avenue for that, band is a great avenue… So it was less of something I wanted to do. It was something I had to do. And it’s the right thing to do.”

Texas Southern University’s “Ocean of Soul”  stands in solidarity with Kerr County. This homage portrays the union and support among Texans.

Among other songs, the team staged “Dontchange” by Musiq Soulchild, arranged by Chief Arranger, Mr. Trenton Hunter, featuring a full captivating and outstanding production, including their dance units, “Motion of the Ocean” and “Ocean Waves”.

Pepsi National Battle of the Bands (NBOTB), founded by Derek Webber, celebrates the contributions of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to music, tradition and leadership. Becoming a cultural experience with many positive outcomes, it has generated over $1.7 million in scholarships to date.

Among the eight powerhouse HBCU bands selected, Ocean of Soul shined with purpose, celebrating tradition and community.

You can follow Ocean of Soul here:

• Instagram: tsuoceanofsoul
• Facebook: Texas Southern University “Ocean of Soul” Marching Band
• YouTube: Ocean of Soul Media