On Thursday, April 17, Tulane University Campus Programming presented Battle of the Bands, an evening filled with vibrant music and community.  

Held in the Lavern Bernick-Center’s Pocket Park, the event drew students in with bright lights, live music and the smell of fresh popcorn. Seven student bands competed for a chance to perform at TUCP’s “Thank God It’s Over” music festival, the university’s signature end-of-year celebration. Each group showcased original songs, covers and high-energy performances that had the crowd cheering and swaying along. 

This year’s lineup included performances by Katz, Off Broadway, Fire Hazard, Thunderneck, Pope Friendship, Low Hanging Fruit and Free Time. Each band brought its own style to the stage, giving the crowd a diverse mix of genres, energy and standout moments that kept the audience engaged from start to finish. 

 A panel of judges crowned Pope Friendship as the winner, earning them the opening slot at TGIO and closing out the event with loud cheers and support from the crowd. Among the standout moments of the night was Pope Friendship’s performance of “Alexander Hamilton” from the renowned musical “Hamilton.” Their bold song choice and delivery — especially the lead singer’s ability to hit every rapid-fire lyric with precision — won the crowd over and set them apart among a strong lineup of talented student bands. 

But the night was more than a friendly musical competition. Students and staff enjoyed the laid-back festival vibe, visiting student-run vendor booths and sampling snacks while soaking in the music. Vendors ranged from visual artists and jewelry-makers to handmade press-on nail designers, all showcasing beautifully crafted, one-of-a-kind products. The tables were a hit, drawing in supportive friends and curious shoppers alike.  

 “It was so great to be featured as a vendor for Battle of the Bands,” said Kendra Johnson, the founder of her art business Nature’s Freckles by Kendra. “It is so important to have more recognition and support for the arts on campus.”

TUCP President Ryan Zaslansky — fondly known as Zaz — spoke about what makes Battle of the Bands such a special event for TUCP. 

“It’s a super awesome way for students to be able to showcase themselves, showcase their music that they’ve been working on for the Tulane community and get involved with everyone else on campus,” Zaz said.

“All of our events … and partnerships with student orgs, like Sex Week, are just always such a hit that I honestly can’t pick a favorite,” Zaz said. 

“Every event to me is a highlight, but I think our biggest event is on the last day of class. [Our] Thank God It’s Over, [or] TGIO, music festival. At that, we’ll have music, merch, tote bags, [a] photo booth, food, drink — all of the above.”

With Pope Friendship set to open at TGIO and the energy from Battle of the Bands still lingering, it’s clear that TUCP knows how to create moments students won’t forget. If this event was any indication, there’s a lot to look forward to — not just at TGIO, but at all TUCP’s future events.