Cal Songs
Other Lesser Known Cal Songs
Let There Be Light (St. Anne/ All Saints)
Written in 1904 (?) by William Croft and Charles Mills Gayley
Charles Mills Gayley wrote "Let There Be Light" in 1904, setting it to the tune of "St. Anne," a traditional religious song by William Croft. "St. Anne" was chosen as the tune because it was a favorite of President Wheeler. However, for the 1921 California Song Book, Gayley asked that the song be reset to the tune "All Saints." Thus, since 1921, "St. Anne," has been the official hymn of the entire University of California system and was traditionally played at solemn University events such as Charter Day and Convocation. For many years now, "St. Anne" was not played. Fittingly, however, "St. Anne" was recently played at the ceremonies marking the 125th anniversary of the founding of the University of California.
Fight 'Em (Down From the North)
Written in 1915 by I. B. Kornblum and H. E. Kowalski
"Fight 'Em" was written by I. B. Kornblum with lyrics by H. E. Kowalski for the 1915 Big Game. The only difference that year was that Big Game was played against the University of Washington instead of Stanford because Stanford had chosen to return to competitive play in rugby. Known then as "Down From the North," "Fight 'Em" was an immediate hit with the student body. In 1919, football relations were reestablished with Stanford, so "Fight 'Em" was only played for rallies and games with Washington. Though rarely played anymore, the Cal Band has pulled out "Fight 'Em" for recent contests with the Washington Huskies, but unfortunately, the student body no longer recognizes the significance of the song.
California Victory Song
Written in 1938 by Donald Levy
"California Victory Song" is a little known Cal song written in the late 1930's by Donald Levy as one of the last of the Daily Californian prize winning songs. Though heralded by Clinton "Brick" Morse and his singing group, the "Californians," the song was never adopted by the Band or the student body.