Tennessee Volunteers Football: Ranking The Vol Traditions
By Zach Ragan
1. Rocky Top
Nothing defines the University of Tennessee more than “Rocky Top”
Although it’s not the official fight song of Tennessee, it might as well be.
The song, which was written in 1967 by Felice and Boudleaux Bryant, was first performed by the Pride of the Southland Band as part of a half-time show in 1972. Tennessee fans loved it so much that it became a mainstay.
If you go to Knoxville for a Vols game, you can expect to hear the tune from the time you arrive, until you get on Interstate 40 to head home.
The band will play the song around 30 to 50 times a game, although opponents of Tennessee would probably put that number much higher.
One of the most iconic moments in Tennessee history may have been when Peyton Manning led the band in Rocky Top after a win over Alabama.
There’s nothing quite like hearing 102,000 fans singing Rocky Top in unison after a Tennessee touchdown, it gives me chills just thinking about the upcoming season.
Whether you agreed with our rankings or not, there’s one thing we can all agree on — Tennessee has some of the best traditions that you will find anywhere in the country.
Vote in our poll below for your favorite Tennessee tradition, and make sure to tweet us (@AllforTennessee), using the hashtag #voltraditions, and let us know what you think!