I’m unable to find any information confirming that the University of Tennessee’s Pride of the Southland Band, known as “The Showband of the South,” has been selected to perform at a Super Bowl halftime show. Historically, the Super Bowl halftime show has featured various marching bands, including those from historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). For instance, Jackson State University’s Sonic Boom of the South Marching Band performed alongside Usher during the Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show in February 2024. Additionally, the University of Arizona’s Pride of Arizona Marching Band participated in the inaugural Super Bowl halftime show in 1967.
The evolution of Super Bowl halftime performances reflects a shift from traditional marching bands to high-profile musical acts. Initially, these intermissions featured local college and high school bands, but over time, they transformed into major entertainment spectacles. Notable performances have included artists like Michael Jackson, Beyoncé, and Prince, contributing to the halftime show’s status as a global event.
While the University of Tennessee’s marching band has not yet had the opportunity to perform at a Super Bowl, their rich history and traditions continue to contribute significantly to collegiate marching band culture.