Pepperdine University, perched in the scenic hills of Malibu, California, is more than just its breathtaking views. The spirit of the Waves, the university’s athletic teams, is vibrantly captured in its fight song. Understanding the Fight Song Lyrics is key to embracing the energy and tradition of Pepperdine. This article delves into the history of the Pepperdine fight song and presents the full lyrics, ensuring you’re ready to cheer on the Waves.
A History of Waves Anthems
The story of Pepperdine’s fight song is one of evolution and enduring spirit. In 1946, alumnus Chuck Baber penned the original Pepperdine fight song. For many years, this anthem served as the soundtrack to Pepperdine pride. However, as times changed, the university recognized the need for a fresh, contemporary fight song that resonated with a new generation of Waves.
In 1979, Pepperdine University launched a contest to find a composer for a new fight song. Marc McGee, then working in Student Recruitment and Admissions, answered the call. His winning entry, “Fight for Pepperdine,” became the university’s new official fight song. Eric Iverson from the Music Department played a crucial role in arranging McGee’s composition, bringing it to life. The song received further refinement in 2008 with a rearrangement by UCLA’s Jay Dillon, ensuring its continued vibrancy. Most recently, in 2021, Jimmy Dunne created an updated arrangement and revised lyrics, breathing new life into the beloved anthem and demonstrating the ongoing evolution of the Pepperdine sound.
“Fight For Pepperdine” Lyrics: Anthem of the Waves
The current fight song, “Fight For Pepperdine,” is an energetic call to action, embodying the competitive spirit of the Waves. Knowing these fight song lyrics allows every fan to participate in the collective cheer, amplifying the support for the team.
**Fight For Pepperdine**
Up on the hills of Malibu...
We are the Waves of Orange & Blue
Waves. Will. Waves. Will. Crush. You!
We're gonna fight, fight, fight For Pepperdine!
We're gonna win for the Orange and the Blue!
The mountains and the sea inspire victory in the waves of Malibu!
We're gonna fight, fight, fight for Pepperdine!
And show our pride now for everyone to see
Come on and raise your voice to show the world your choice
And cheer our team to victory!
Go Waves! Fight! Fight! Fight!
We're gonna fight, fight, fight for Pepperdine!
We're gonna win for the Orange and the Blue!
The mountains and the sea inspire victory in the waves of Malibu!
We're gonna fight, fight, fight for Pepperdine!
And show our pride now for everyone to see
Come on and raise your voice to show the world your choice
And cheer our team to victory!These fight song lyrics are more than just words; they are a declaration of support and a rallying cry for the Pepperdine community. The lyrics emphasize key elements of Pepperdine’s identity: its location “up on the hills of Malibu,” the university colors “Orange & Blue,” and the powerful imagery of “Waves” crushing the competition.
Alma Mater: “We Will Climb” Lyrics – A Song of Reflection and Aspiration
Beyond the spirited fight song, Pepperdine also cherishes its alma mater, “We Will Climb,” also updated by Jimmy Dunne in 2021. While the fight song fuels immediate game-day energy, the alma mater provides a more reflective and aspirational tone. Understanding the alma mater lyrics offers a deeper connection to the university’s values and long-term vision.
**Alma Mater: We Will Climb**
In front of me, the most amazing vista
All I see—the richest college memories
Looking back, I realize I’m right where I should be
Will I climb
Will I dare to dream
The light of the lantern
Will it shine through me
Will I catch
A wondrous wave
Will I ride on a crest
That shapes my days
And when the storms out on the sea
Test all I’m born to be
I will draw from my days here
You’ll always be, always be with me
We will climb
We will dare to dream
The light of the lantern
It will shine through me
We will climb
We will reach for more
We’ll hold this light together
We’ll share these days forever
We will climb
Pepperdine
PepperdineThe alma mater lyrics speak to the Pepperdine experience as a journey of personal growth and aspiration. The “vista,” “lantern,” and “wave” metaphors evoke the university’s setting and the guiding principles of light and progress. “We Will Climb” is a promise of continued striving and a lifelong connection to Pepperdine.
Conclusion: Singing with Pride
Both the “Fight For Pepperdine” fight song and the “We Will Climb” alma mater are integral parts of the Pepperdine University experience. Knowing the fight song lyrics and alma mater lyrics allows students, alumni, and fans to actively participate in university traditions and express their Pepperdine pride. Whether you are cheering at a game or reflecting on your time at Malibu, these songs provide a powerful connection to the heart of Pepperdine.
