N.C. A&T’s Blue and Gold Marching Machine Holds Spot as No. 1 HBCU Band for 3rd Year

EAST GREENSBORO, N.C. (Feb. 11, 2022) – With more than 223,000 votes, the fabulous Blue and Gold Marching Machine (BGMM) at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University was recently crowned the 2021 HBCU Band of the Year. The award marked the band’s third consecutive year taking the top prize. The Marching Machine generated more than half of all survey votes.

The online poll, conducted by HBCU Sports, was conducted Jan. 14-21, receiving votes from students, alumni and a host of other band enthusiasts.

In addition to the coveted designation of best HBCU band, the BGMM program will receive $2,500.

Under the direction and leadership of Kenneth Ruff, Ed.D., the band boasts a membership of approximately 200 students from diverse majors and concentrations.

The premier band regularly participates in competitions, showcase events and battles, not to mention entertaining the hometown crowd during Aggie football games at Truist Stadium. Additionally, BGMM holds the coveted designation as official band of the Carolina Panthers NFL franchise.

Take a look at one of the band's thrilling performances below.