University of California Marching Band ~ Cal Songs ~ Hail to California

Cal Songs

Hail to California

Written in 1907 by Clinton R. "Brick" Morse; arranged by Charles C. Cushing.
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Hail to California,
Alma Mater dear;
Sing the joyful chorus,
Sound it far and near.
Rallying round her banner,
We will never fail;
California, Alma Mater,
Hail! Hail! Hail!

Hail to California,
Queen in whom we're blest;
Spreading light and goodness
Over all the West.
Fighting 'neath her standard,
We shall sure prevail;
California, Alma Mater,
Hail! Hail! Hail!

"Hail to California" was written by Clinton "Brick" Morse while improvising at the piano in 1907. He was asked by University President Benjamin Ide Wheeler and Professor Gayley to write songs for the rooting section, and "Hail to California" was one of many he composed (see "Sons of California"). Morse's sentiment was that "Sons of California" and "Hail to California" would be "nothing unless sung in harmony." The fraternities began to sing "Hail to California" (though not in harmony), and its popularity subsequently spread. In fact, "Hail to California" has often threatened to supplant "All Hail Blue and Gold" as the official Alma Mater of Berkeley. Indeed, "Hail to California" is used as the Alma Mater of UC Davis, UCLA, and of the UC system as a whole. The Cal Band traditionally sings "Hail to California" in harmony after playing the "Star Spangled Banner" at every home men's basketball game.