View From The Sidelines (VFTS) is a platform dedicated to covering the Pageantry, History, and Culture of the band programs at Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs). It’s an endeavor born almost three decades ago, in the infancy of modern social media. More specifically, it came from a legendary and trailblazing online social community called The 5th Quarter. The 5Q wasn’t just a message board; It was the first all-inclusive online community for people that are part of the HBCU Marching Band legacy.
This platform’s beginnings started on that message board. For me specifically, it was the start of my foray into covering arguably one of the best representations of the proud and storied legacy of HBCUs. If you’re looking to become part of that legacy; That tradition, feel free to use this blog as a window into that world. You WON’T be disappointed. #PreserveTheHistory #ProtectTheCraft
About The Author…
https://bustingbrackets.com/author/hsewardiii/
I’ve been covering (on and off) the Culture around HBCUs for the better part of 25 years. I’m also a product of HBCUs and HBCU Marching Band Culture. There isn’t a better way I can think of to express just how important the culture is than through the pen (or in this case, Digital Media). I’m glad to be able to re-launch this blog for a new generation of bandsmen and share THEIR stories, triumphs, and accomplishments. I’m also proud to be able to showcase just how big of a footprint HBCU bandom has in mainstream culture. The days of tape trades and VHS may be gone, but the influence our programs and performances have on the greater landscape of HBCU visibility are bigger than ever.
With that said, Thank you for your patronage and support of VFTS. #PreserveTheHistory #ProtectTheCraft