Go U Northwestern

Go U Northwestern. It is the official fight song of Northwestern University, serving as a central element of school spirit and athletic tradition since its adoption in the early 20th century. The song is performed at university events, most prominently by the Northwestern University Wildcat Marching Band during NCAA competitions, including Big Ten Conference football and basketball games. Its lyrics and melody are deeply ingrained in the culture of the Evanston, Illinois institution, rallying students, alumni, and fans.

History and origins

The song was created in 1912 through a collaboration between lyricist Theodore C. Van Etten, a member of the Class of 1915, and composer Tod B. Galloway. Its introduction coincided with a period of growth for Northwestern University athletics and the formal adoption of the Willie the Wildcat mascot. The song quickly supplanted earlier spirited tunes like "Fair Northwestern" to become the primary anthem for the Northwestern Wildcats. Its establishment as the official fight song was solidified under the direction of early band leaders such as Peter D. Lutkin, who helped integrate it into the repertoire of the university's musical ensembles. The song's longevity mirrors the history of Dyche Stadium, later renamed Ryan Field, where it has echoed for over a century.

Lyrics and musical composition

The lyrics are a direct call to action for the Northwestern Wildcats, opening with the imperative "Go! U! Northwestern!" and invoking the colors "purple and white." The text praises the team's fight and valor, with lines like "Fight for victory, spread far the fame" and explicit references to winning for the "Glory of the Gray." Musically, it is a brisk march in a major key, characterized by a strong, repetitive melodic line and a straightforward harmonic structure designed for crowd participation. The composition shares stylistic elements with other collegiate fight songs of the era, such as those from the University of Michigan and the University of Illinois, but is distinct in its specific exhortations to the Northwestern University community. The arrangement performed by the Northwestern University Wildcat Marching Band typically features bold brass instrument sections and emphatic percussion.

Usage and traditions

The song is performed by the Northwestern University Wildcat Marching Band at the opening of every home football game, following the national anthem, and after every Northwestern Wildcats score. A central tradition involves the student section and alumni performing a coordinated "push-up" motion for each point on the scoreboard during the song's chorus. It is also played by the Northwestern University Pep Band at Welsh-Ryan Arena during basketball games and other volleyball and wrestling events. The song is a staple at university ceremonies, including convocation and Homecoming, and is taught to incoming students during Wildcat Welcome orientation. Its performance is often led by the university's spirit squad, including the Northwestern cheerleading team and Willie the Wildcat.

In popular culture

The fight song has appeared in several films and television series set in the Chicago metropolitan area, often used to establish a collegiate atmosphere. It was featured in the 1986 film "Wildcats," starring Goldie Hawn, which, while not directly about Northwestern University, utilized the song for its thematic connection. The melody is sometimes quoted or referenced in works by alumni, including composers for programs on ESPN and Big Ten Network. Notably, during the 1996 Rose Bowl and the 2018 Big Ten Football Championship Game, national broadcasts prominently featured performances of the song. It also appears in the repertoire of the Chicago Bears' band when honoring players who are alumni of the university.

See also

* Northwestern University Wildcat Marching Band * Willie the Wildcat * Big Ten Conference * Fight song * Illinois Loyalty * The Victors

Category:Northwestern University Category:American fight songs Category:Sports songs Category:Songs about American universities and colleges Category:1912 songs