The Madness of 'Rocky Top': How Many Times Tennessee's Band Actually Plays It in a Game

Explore how The Madness of 'Rocky Top': How Many Times Tennessee's Band Actually Plays It in a Game is drawing attention in this detailed write-up.

Q1: Is Rocky Top the official fight song of the University of Tennessee?

A1: Technically, no. The university’s official fight song remains "Down the Field," written in 1908. However, the Bryants' tune serves as the beloved unofficial fight song and is played far more frequently during athletic contests.

Q2: Who owns the copyright and royalties to the song?

A2: The copyright is owned by House of Bryant Publications, the publishing company established by Felice and Boudleaux Bryant. The university pays licensing fees to perform and commercially merchandise the song.

Q3: How many times does the band play it during an average four-quarter game?

A3: The band averages between 20 and 35 performances during an active home game inside Neyland Stadium. During high-scoring blowouts, that count has climbed past 40 individual performances.