You are correct that HBCU bands have been doing this for years -- but "Drumline" has/had absolutely nothing to do with The Marching 110's shows. They've been doing these since 1967. Don't think "Drumline" was out back then.
Besides, what difference does it make? To entertain their audience is...
I was the first announcer for this version of the OUMB back and 1967 and have been following them for years. I just found out tonight that they play this with hats of and standing at attention in memory of two band members who were killed in an automobile accident in the 1990's. Impressive.
You are correct that HBCU bands have been doing this for years -- but "Drumline" has/had absolutely nothing to do with The Marching 110's shows. They've been doing these since 1967. Don't think "Drumline" was out back then.
Besides, what difference does it make? To entertain their audience is...