HBCU Classic 2026 | Alex Davis

In this Soul Sessions Extra, guest host Yolanda Clay-Moore reconnects with Alex Davis, founder of the HBCU Labor Day Classic Battle of the Bands, ahead of the event's second year in Jackson, Mississippi. Davis reflects on what drew him back to Jackson after last year's historic gathering of ten HBCU marching bands, and previews Bethune-Cookman's first-ever appearance in the city. He also walks through what's changing this year — more open gates, reserved seating, and dedicated parking — after lessons learned from year one. The conversation closes with Davis sharing the full 2026 lineup and details on how to grab tickets before the Classic returns to Veterans Memorial Stadium on Sunday, September 6. TRANSCRIPT: https://www.visitjackson.com/blog/soul-sessions-hbcu-labor-day-classic