Tight end Tyler Warren (44) moves to block a Washington player at Penn State football’s White Out game against Washington on Saturday, Nov. 9, 2024 in Beaver Stadium in University Park, Pa. The Nittany Lions crushed the Huskies 35-6.
Kevin Cheng
From football chants to party anthems, here’s your soundtrack for life at University Park. Whether you’re tailgating outside Beaver Stadium, dancing at a downtown apartment party or singing along at THON, there are certain songs every Penn Stater just knows. Here’s your guide to the songs that will define your college soundtrack.
1. “Say Amen (Saturday Night)” – Panic! At The Disco
This song is a pre-game ritual. Right before the Penn State football team charges onto the field, the entire stadium belts out this high-energy anthem. When the beat drops and 100,000+ fans start jumping, you’ll feel the roar in your chest. Pro tip: learn the lyrics now, because you don’t want to be the only one not shouting along.
2. “Sweet Caroline” – Neil Diamond
Played during the fourth quarter of football games and at campus events like Homecoming and THON, this one is all about the crowd response: “Bum bum bum!” and “So good! So good! So good!” It’s a feel-good song everyone knows, no matter the decade.
3. Penn State Alma Mater
Okay, this one’s not a party banger, but it’s tradition. You’ll hear it at every football game, graduation and formal university event. Learning the lyrics (at least the chorus) shows school pride and helps you feel more connected to generations of Penn Staters before you.
4. “Mr. Brightside” – The Killers
This early 2000s hit has somehow become a Gen Z anthem. It’s often the closing song at parties, bars and THON. Everyone screams the lyrics, often arm-in-arm with strangers who feel like lifelong friends.
5. “Levels” – Avicii
No Penn State playlist is complete without some EDM. “Levels” is a nostalgic throwback that’s still a favorite at parties and pep rallies. It captures the high-energy spirit of student life in Happy Valley.
6. THON Songs
THON, the largest student-run philanthropy in the world, has its own playlist filled with feel-good, motivational tracks. Expect to hear songs like “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” by Kelly Clarkson and “High Hopes” by Panic! At the Disco during the 46-hour dance marathon. It’s all about unity, resilience and dancing For The Kids.
7. “Party in the U.S.A.” – Miley Cyrus
Unexpected? Maybe. Don’t be surprised when this classic comes on at a party and everyone knows every word. It’s an unofficial anthem of good vibes, nostalgia and Penn State energy.
8. “No Hands” – Roscoe Dash and Waka Flocka Flame
A true college party classic, “No Hands” never fails to get the crowd hyped, whether it’s blasting at a frat house, tailgate or apartment pregame. The beat is infectious and the lyrics are basically a rite of passage for Penn State students. If you don’t know it yet, you will soon.
9. “Fein” – Travis Scott
Travis Scott’s “Fein” has become a staple for turning up on campus. With its smooth beat and catchy flow, it’s a must for parties, especially when you’re vibing with friends at a tailgate or club. The track is a true embodiment of the relaxed yet hype vibe Penn Staters love.
10. “Mo Bamba” – Sheck Wes
If you’ve been to a Penn State party, you’ve definitely heard “Mo Bamba.” The hype track with its unforgettable hook is a staple for getting the crowd jumping. Whether it’s at a tailgate or a downtown apartment, the bass-heavy beat and wild energy of this song make it a must for every Penn State party.
Bonus Tip:
Check out the DJ booth at the HUB or any campus pep rally and you’ll catch these songs on repeat. Want to feel like a local? Make a playlist and get ready to sing, chant and dance your way into Penn State tradition.
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