On Wednesday 30 April 2025, the spotlight was on Drayton Manor High School's talented young musicians as they went head-to-head in this year’s Battle of the Bands - an annual highlight in the school calendar that never fails to deliver energy, creativity, and unforgettable performances.
From the moment guests arrived, it was clear this was not just another school event.
A purple carpet stretched across the entrance and security bouncers stood by the doors, setting the tone for a concert-style experience. Proud Parents, Carers, and students rolled in, eager to see their friends and children take the stage and shine.
Inside the hall, the atmosphere was electric. A total of eleven student bands took to the stage, each showcasing their talent with bold, passionate performances. From rock and pop to funk and indie, the musical variety was impressive. The performers poured their hearts into their music, and the audience responded with loud cheers, claps, and even a few standing ovations.
The judging panel, Andrew Levy and Laura Darton, faced the tough task of choosing the winners. With such a high level of talent on display, it was no easy decision. While the judges deliberated, the audience was treated to a light-hearted air guitar competition.
Students took centre stage to mime along to iconic guitar solos, entertaining the crowd and keeping the energy high. It was a fun and totally unforgettable intermission that had everyone laughing and singing along.
After a period of intense discussion, the results were finally in.
First Place - Hot Coals and Embers took the top spot with a powerful performance that truly set the stage alight.
Second Place - 6 Degrees who impressed with their musical originality and cohesion.
Third Place - RIFF for their tight sound and infectious stage presence.
The announcement met with cheers and applause from the audience. It was a well-earned victory for all the bands who made it to the podium, and a moment of pride for everyone involved. As one Parent kindly remarked, “Everyone’s a winner tonight.”
That sentiment captured the spirit of the evening perfectly.
This year’s Battle of the Bands was a shining example of the creativity and passion of Drayton Manor’s student body. It was a celebration of self-expression, teamwork, and the power of music to bring people together.
Congratulations to all the performers, and a big thank you to the staff, judges, and organisers who made this incredible night possible. We’ll all be counting down the days until next year’s battle!
