to beat the band

Jonathon Green suggests that it means to drown out the band, that is, talk or sing louder than the band.[1] See also beat the band.

• Audio (AU)

  (file)

to beat the band

1. (idiomatic) In such a way as to surpass all competition; hence, contextually, very vigorously, at a frantic pace, to a high degree.
   • 1917, Jack London, chapter 7, in Michael, Brother of Jerry:

     Fifty dollars gold 'd buy beer to beat the band—enough to drown me if I fell in head first.

   • 1921, P. G. Wodehouse, chapter 7, in The Little Warrior:

     Last time I saw you, you were a kiddy in short frocks, running around and shouting to beat the band.

   • 1922, Peter B. Kyne, chapter 54, in Cappy Ricks Retires:

     You rile me to beat the band sometimes, Skinner.

• a lot (adverb)
• beyond compare (adverb)
• like the new time (adverb)