University of South Carolina
"2001" Fanfare

Based on "Also Sprach Zarathustra"
Composed by Richard Strauss

The University of South Carolina Gamecocks feature perhaps the most unique and electrifying pregame entry in all of college football. As the minutes wind down on the game clock prior to the opening kickoff, the Gamecocks leave the locker room following final pre-game instruction from their coaching staff and assemble in the tunnel in the southwest corner of Williams-Brice Stadium. Then, as the crowd of more than 82,000 begins its roar of anticipation, the first notes of "Also Sprach Zarathustra" by Richard Strauss, better known as the theme song from "2001 - A Space Odyssey", blare over the stadium sound system. As the music continues, the enthusiasm of the crowd is feverish. Finally, at just the exact moment, in perfect coordination with the music, the Gamecocks hit the field running, and the stadium goes wild.

This magical moment has been captured by national television, including ESPN and WTBS, during their telecasts of games at Williams-Brice Stadium. It is indeed one of the special traditions in college football.