Traditionally associated with Major League Baseball, the Cincinnati Reds aren’t exactly the first name that comes to mind when one thinks of high-profile marching band performances. In fact, most people were unaware that the Reds even had a marching band. But they do — and it turns out, they’re phenomenal.
Formed as a promotional side project in 2020, the Reds Marching Band started small, performing at local parades, fan fests, and occasionally on the field during Opening Day ceremonies. Over time, the group grew in both size and reputation, blending high-energy brass performances with intricate dance routines, pop music mashups, and even elements of comedy.
“It started as something fun for the fans,” said band director Marissa Cole, who formerly led the Ohio State University Drumline. “We wanted to bring a different kind of entertainment to the ballpark — but we never expected this.”
According to NFL spokesperson Jordan Becker, the selection process for the Super Bowl halftime show has evolved in recent years to include more unconventional performers. “We’re always looking to surprise and engage fans in new ways,” Becker said. “When we saw the Reds Marching Band’s viral Fourth of July performance, we knew we were onto something special.”
That viral performance — a raucous 10-minute medley of Queen, Taylor Swift, and classic rock anthems complete with choreographed flag twirlers and fireworks — garnered over 12 million views on YouTube. Since then, the band’s social media presence has exploded, attracting collaborations with artists like Lizzo and Imagine Dragons.
Still, the idea of a baseball team’s marching band taking over the biggest football stage in the world has raised more than a few eyebrows.
“What’s next? The Mets Ballet Company?” one skeptical fan joked online. But others have embraced the news with enthusiasm. “Honestly, the Reds band rocks,” tweeted another user. “They’re going to blow the roof off the stadium — if it had one.”
For their Super Bowl performance, the band is keeping tight-lipped about the setlist, though Cole teased “a genre-defying, visually stunning musical journey unlike anything fans have ever seen.”
Rumors suggest that several surprise musical guests may be joining them onstage, and insiders hint at a possible tribute to Cincinnati music legends like Bootsy Collins and The National.
No matter what unfolds, one thing is certain: this year’s Super Bowl halftime show is going to be one for the books. And whether you’re a football fanatic or a marching band junkie, the Reds are ready to deliver an unbelievable performance.
“This is our shot,” said Cole. “We’re going to make Cincinnati proud — and maybe rewrite a few rules about halftime entertainment along the way.”
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