The vibrations of amped-up guitars and pounding drums echoed across Cal Poly Pomona’s (CPP) campus in early November as the university’s talented musicians battled it out at the momentous Billy’s Battle of the Bands. Long before the first act took the stage, eager students began lining up outside the Bronco Student Center (BSC), unable to contain their excitement for the showdown. Hosted by Associated Student Incorporated’s (ASI) Bronco Events and Activities Team (BEAT) and student club, IGESO, this lively competition promised a night of great music and friendly rivalry as four student bands went head-to-head for the ultimate prize: the title of champion and a spot to perform at BEAT’s next event, Midnight Madness.
“I love discovering new artists and punk music, so I was really excited to see that an event like this was organized on campus,” said attendee Brandon Bocanegra preshow.
As the doors opened, students browsed vendor booths selling vinyl records, band merch, and more while fueling up on ASI’s complimentary food. The funky hair booth and free caricature drawings got the crowd into the spirit, but the band performances remained the highlight of this electric evening.
As the light dimmed and the performances started, it was clear that this was what the people were waiting for. Loaf Collective, Raccoon Cartoons, Case Study, and I Am A Snake each brought high energy and unique styles to the stage. Each band put their unique spin on their setlist showcasing tight instrumentation and impressive showmanship. The styles between bands contrasted from energetic and danceable to moody and introspective. 
After the impressive final act, intense deliberation took place behind the scenes as event organizers tallied up the votes to determine a champion. Unlike typical talent competitions, the audience had an active role in selecting their favorite band. Attendees voted through a QR code that digitally cast their ballot for whichever group won them over most. 
As voting closed, organizers excitedly counted the final results. In the end, Raccoon Cartoons emerged victorious as the clear audience favorite based on the votes. Their infectious energy, musical talent, and crowd-pleasing sound had secured them the most votes, cementing their status as Billy’s Battle of The Bands Champions.
“I’m grateful ASI gave us this opportunity,” said Raccoon Cartoons’ Nicholas Vela. “Playing here was an amazing experience!” 
Billy’s Battle of the Bands reached far beyond just a single winner. Though only one band could take home the top prize, the competition gave all the acts increased visibility to new fans and invaluable experience performing in front of a large audience. Several bands were thrilled to see attendees singing along or approaching them with praise after their sets, showing their music reaching more ears. For many groups, it was some of the most significant exposure of their early careers. 
As I Am A Snake member Jack Blake put it, “We haven’t played a lot of shows yet, so we wanted to get some more exposure, and this was a great opportunity. Playing alongside our friends from the other bands made it even better!”
Billy’s Battle of the Bands was an electrifying night that showcased CPP’s musical talent. Though Raccoon Cartoons took home the top prize, all of the bands gained invaluable experience and exposure. The event brought students together through a shared love of music and created a lively atmosphere of friendly competition and community. As the audience filtered out with smiles on their faces and songs stuck in their heads, it was clear that Billy’s Battle of the Bands was a resounding success. This memorable night of music made its mark, inspiring attendees, and participants alike.
Interested in performing at a future ASI event? Let us know on our social media @ASICPP on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok!
