**ESPN 🆕: Texas Longhorn Marching Band Crowned #1 in the World, Earning Global Recognition**
*Texas, AL* — In a groundbreaking achievement that has resonated throughout the world of music and collegiate athletics, the Texas Longhorn Marching Band has officially been crowned the No. 1 marching band on the planet. The announcement, confirmed by ESPN, Guinness World Records, and the Global Performing Arts Federation, came after a rigorous international evaluation process that ranked the finest ensembles from every corner of the globe.
The Longhorn Band, affectionately known as “The Showband of the Southwest,” earned the title following a comprehensive year-long scoring system that judged over 100 elite bands on criteria including musical precision, choreography, originality, visual storytelling, and audience engagement. Bands from countries such as Japan, Germany, the United Kingdom, Brazil, and South Korea were all part of the competition.
“This is one of the proudest moments in our program’s history,” said Dr. Cliff Croomes, Director of the Longhorn Band. “Our students, staff, and alumni have all contributed to the legacy we’re building, and to be recognized on a global scale is a dream come true.”
The Longhorn Band’s innovative halftime shows, high-energy performances, and tradition of excellence helped them rise to the top of the rankings. Their iconic use of formations — including the famous “Script Texas” — and bold musical arrangements have become a hallmark of college football weekends in Austin.
The performance that reportedly secured their No. 1 position came during the 2024 College Football Playoff, where the band executed a breathtaking, multi-theme halftime show that seamlessly blended classical motifs, Texas pride, and contemporary flair — all with precision and flair.
Guinness World Records presented the band with an official plaque recognizing their achievement, which will be permanently displayed at the Butler School of Music on the University of Texas campus.
The university community and fans across the nation have erupted in celebration. Social media buzzed with the hashtags #TexasBandNo1 and #LonghornPride, as congratulations poured in from across the college marching band community and beyond.
As the Texas Longhorn Band prepares for a world tour and an upcoming ESPN documentary special, one thing is clear — their sound now resonates far beyond the stadium. The Longhorns haven’t just taken the field. They’ve taken the world stage.
