Why Tennessee Waltz?

#1
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newyorkvol

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#1
I know we've been playing that post game for as long as I remember (1991). Anyone know the tradition of that and why it instead of Alma Mater? The medley is wonderful but the words are kind of awful!
 
#2
#2
For a moment I thought this was a callout. "What'd I say?!? What'd I do!?!" The lyrics are sad for sure, but who doesn't love that lively waltz cadence?
 
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#6
#6
The scene after the last two games is what prompted me to ask. I love it and think it's a very appropriate song, but was just wondering if anyone knew of how it got started. Seems like most other programs play they're alma mater.
 
#9
#9
It's been played as long as I can remember. I believe it is still the Official song for the state. Maybe someone can confirm.

I understand your question, though. Why play the Waltz vs. the Alma Mater? I honestly don't know.
 
#10
#10
newyorkvol said:
The scene after the last two games is what prompted me to ask. I love it and think it's a very appropriate song, but was just wondering if anyone knew of how it got started. Seems like most other programs play they're alma mater.
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Most programs don't play the alma mater at half time, the Pride does so there is no need to play it again. Additionally the alma mater is a song that deserves respect, ie., when it is played you should stand still, remove hats, etc. It is inappropriate after a game when trying to celebrate.
 
#13
#13
Believe it goes back to 1951 Cotton Bowl, when the Texas band struck up "The Eyes of Texas" in the tunnel outside the Vols dressing room during Neyland's final pre-game remarks. The General said "When this game is over, they'll be playing the 'Tennessee Waltz.'"
 
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#14
#14
WillisWG said:
Believe it goes back to 1951 Cotton Bowl, when the Texas band struck up "The Eyes of Texas" in the tunnel outside the Vols dressing room during Neyland's final pre-game remarks. The General said "When this game is over, they'll be playing the 'Tennessee Waltz.'"
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Sold! That's a great story. True or not, let's go with this.
 
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#15
#15
.....as long as I can remember they have played that beautiful song.....my first game was 1966.....They used have a Tennessee walking horse prancing around back then
 
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#17
#17
The Tennessee Waltz isn't the official song of the state of Tennessee, but it's one of a handful of "adopted" songs that the state has semi-officially claimed over the years. And is probably the best known of them all, nationwide (though "Smoky Mountain Rain" is also very widely known).

p.s. Rocky Top is also one of those "adopted" state songs, and is best known among football fans throughout the nation. :good!:
 
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#21
#21
newyorkvol said:
The scene after the last two games is what prompted me to ask. I love it and think it's a very appropriate song, but was just wondering if anyone knew of how it got started. Seems like most other programs play they're alma mater.
Click to expand...

We play the Alma Mater at half time.. The Tenn. Waltz is the state song. (the first so designated ,I think) Don't know the reason it started, but to acknowledge the state is that is your namesake is pretty good.
 
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#22
#22
I've always heard television announcers say "And now they play the Tennessee alma mater" during the post-game Tennessee Waltz. My OCD always wants to scream "no its not!", but - its a beautiful song and a great tradition so whatever. :)
 
#23
#23
Moxie said:
I've always heard television announcers say "And now they play the Tennessee alma mater" during the post-game Tennessee Waltz. My OCD always wants to scream "no its not!", but - its a beautiful song and a great tradition so whatever. :)
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Awwee.. Now that's just 'ol Verne. He get's a little sentimental and teary eyed watching Jalen Reeves-Mabis sway to the music. Tad confused, but Wow.
 
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#25
#25
WillisWG said:
Believe it goes back to 1951 Cotton Bowl, when the Texas band struck up "The Eyes of Texas" in the tunnel outside the Vols dressing room during Neyland's final pre-game remarks. The General said "When this game is over, they'll be playing the 'Tennessee Waltz.'"
Click to expand...

I like this and maybe it speaks to my thoughts, too which are when the Vols hit the field they are representing more than just the University, they're playing for the entire State of Tennessee.
 
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