In 2008, numerous traditional finalists changed classes and new rivalries were instantly created. In class 1A, Williamstown successfully defended its title, the first time a class 1A band had done so since Williamstown did it in 2005. Mayfield also made its first-ever finals appearance, finishing fourth. In class 2A, Washington County was able to win its first state championship. Shelby Valley and Caldwell County also made its first finals appearances. In class 3A, Adair County's dominance was challenged, as Bourbon County led by Adair County alumni Eric Hale took the crown for the first time. In class 4A, newcomers and recent champions from other classes, Boyle County, Mercer County, and Calloway County, challenged for the title, though in the end Madisonville North Hopkins High School won its fourth straight state championship. In class 5A, Lafayette, coming back from an upsetting 2nd-place finish in 2007, reclaimed the title over second place Dunbar. North Hardin took home third place and John Hardin made finals in class 5A for the second time and finished in 4th place.