The work that the USC Song Leaders contribute to the USC community is significant and often goes unnoticed.
These athletes, distinguishable by their white uniforms and cardinal and gold pom poms, are not just there to smile and wave. They are hard-working individuals with years of dance experience and technical training, serving as ambassadors for the University of Southern California.
The USC Song Leaders have been around since 1967, performing at all football games and Trojan sporting events, along with other alumni, charitable, university and special events throughout the calendar year.
Annenberg Media spoke to the athletes and staff within the Song program and discussed the hard work that goes into being a USC Song Leader.
“It does take a lot of training and experience of many different dance styles and technical training,” Danielle B., a sophomore involved with the group, said. “Personally, I was a competitive dancer for about 10 years, and that’s what really helped me get to where I am today.”
Becoming a USC Song Leader is no easy feat. It involves a rigorous audition process where typically 40+ students try out. Each year, only a select few — usually 10-14 — are chosen. This year, the team comprises 11 talented and experienced dancers, a testament to the high standards of the Song Leaders.
“I think some people think that we audition for this team just by watching a couple of videos of past teams, and we decided that this is something we just want to do,” Phoebe S., a sophomore Song Leader, said. “But all of us have had training for years and years before this.”
USC Song Leaders don’t just perform at events, they live and breathe their roles. They take part in over 15 hours of rehearsal each week including team studio rehearsals and independent rehearsals. Game days include three-hour band rehearsals and rallies, all of which can take up to 12 hours.
Their dedication is evident in the time they invest in full games, rallies and special performances, showcasing the depth of their commitment to this program.
Song Leaders arrived on campus 10 days before the start of the semester for an extensive boot camp from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily to prepare for a year’s worth of events. The group learns over 35 dances in a year, coming up with a new halftime routine for every home football game.
A wide variety of choreographers within the professional dance industry come in to work with the Song Leaders — many who are former NFL and NBA dancers. Audrea Harris, an advisor to the Song Program, expressed her gratitude that the team is able to draw on the wisdom of experienced leaders.
“We are incredibly fortunate to have so many amazing choreographers at our fingertips who are always willing and happy to come in and work with us at a moment’s notice,” Harris said.
The USC Song Leaders are a staple piece of the puzzle that is USC history and tradition. Their consistent dedication, loyalty and quest for continual improvement are hallmarks of the USC Song Program.