“The Victors” stands as the renowned fight song of the University of Michigan, a spirited anthem with a history as vibrant as the Maize and Blue. Penned in November 1898 by Louis Elbel, a University of Michigan music student, this powerful march was born from the exhilaration of victory. Elbel was inspired by the Wolverines’ stunning 12-11 triumph over rival Chicago, a win that clinched Michigan’s very first Western Conference football championship. This pivotal moment in Michigan’s athletic history fueled the creation of a song that would echo through generations.
The song’s debut to the public was equally prestigious. In May 1899, the legendary John Philip Sousa and his band introduced “The Victors” to an Ann Arbor audience. Sousa, a celebrated composer of marches, lauded “The Victors” as “the best college march ever written,” a testament to its musicality and enduring appeal. These powerful lyrics and melody quickly became synonymous with Michigan pride and athletic excellence.
To this day, “The Victors” remains an integral part of the University of Michigan experience. From the roar of the crowd at Michigan Stadium to the proud melodies played by the University of Michigan Marching Band, the fight song ignites passion and unity among students, alumni, and fans alike. It serves as a powerful symbol of the university’s rich traditions and unwavering spirit of competition, forever linking the thrill of victory with the Maize and Blue.
The Victors (L. Elbel)/Regents of the University of Michigan
Now for a cheer they are here, triumphant!
Here they come with banners flying,
In stalwart step they’re nighing,
With shouts of vict’ry crying,
We hurrah, hurrah, we greet you now, Hail!
Far we their praises sing
For the glory and fame they’ve bro’t us
Loud let the bells them ring
For here they come with banners flying
Far we their praises tell
For the glory and fame they’ve bro’t us
Loud let the bells them ring
For here they come with banners flying
Here they come, Hurrah!
Hail! to the victors valiant
Hail! to the conqu’ring heroes
Hail! Hail! to Michigan the leaders and best
Hail! to the victors valiant
Hail! to the conqu’ring heroes
Hail! Hail! to Michigan, the champions of the West!
We cheer them again
We cheer and cheer again
For Michigan, we cheer for Michigan
We cheer with might and main
We cheer, cheer, cheer
With might and main we cheer!
Hail! to the victors valiant
Hail! to the conqu’ring heroes
Hail! Hail! to Michigan, the champions of the West!
