Alabama's Million Dollar Tradition

Welcome back, Tide fans! In this special edition, we’re taking a break from the gridiron to highlight one of Alabama’s most cherished traditions: the Million Dollar Band.

Miss Terry’s Love for the MDB

Last weekend, Miss Terry Saban made an appearance on ESPN’s College GameDay as a guest picker. One of the traditions she highlighted was her love for the Alabama Million Dollar Band’s performance of "Tusk." Played during the pre-game Elephant Stomp at Gorgas Library, this song has become an anthem for Tide fans on game days.

The Origin of the Million Dollar Band

Established in 1912, the Million Dollar Band earned its name during the 1922 Alabama vs. Georgia Tech game. After Alabama’s football team struggled in the game, a sportswriter remarked, “You don’t have a good football team, but you have a million-dollar band!” The name stuck, and the band has since become an integral part of Alabama’s game-day experience.

Traditions and Performances

The Million Dollar Band’s involvement goes far beyond the football field. On game day, fans flock to the Elephant Stomp to witness the band rally the crowd. The band's rendition of “Yea Alabama” kicks off the fight song tradition, and their halftime performances are nothing short of legendary, always adding extra energy to the stadium.

The song "Tusk" by Fleetwood Mac became associated with the band in the 1980s after Alabama added it to their repertoire. Since then, it’s been a highlight of the band’s game-day setlist, particularly during the home-game pep rally, adding to the rich traditions surrounding Alabama football.

National Recognition and Impact

The Million Dollar Band isn’t just a fan favorite; they’ve also received national acclaim. They’ve performed at multiple bowl games, including the Rose Bowl and College Football Playoff National Championships, along with televised parades such as the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade cementing their place as one of the top college marching bands in the country.

With more than 400 members, the band’s legacy has only grown stronger over the years. Its precision, energy, and musicality are unmatched, making them as much a symbol of Alabama football as the players themselves. The Million Dollar Band is more than a collection of musicians; they represent the heart and spirit of Alabama’s football tradition.

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From Miss Terry’s favorite game-day traditions to the band’s historic performances, we hope you’ve enjoyed this deep dive into the Million Dollar Band’s storied history. Stay tuned for the next edition as we continue to explore the traditions that make Alabama football one of a kind.

Roll Tide!