Mission
The 369th Experience is an historic re-creation of the The 369th Infantry Regimental Band, also known as the Harlem Hellfighters. The 369th Infantry Regiment was comprised of African American and Puerto Rican soldiers in World War I. They went on to become one of the longest-serving, most decorated units of World War I. In addition to their bravery on the battlefield, these soldiers were brilliant musicians who introduced ragtime, big band and jazz to the warfront and the world. Our band is made up of 65 African American and Puerto Rican male students from HBCSs and other colleges and universities across the United States. Our program celebrates the Harlem Hellfighters's contribution to the music of the past and present with live and virtual performances saluting The 369th Regimental Band and its bandleader James Reese Europe.