Exploring the Musical Tastes of NCAA Tournament Coaches
As the intensity of the NCAA Tournament heats up, the personal music tastes of its coaches have become a topic as diverse and riveting as the competition itself. It's a fascinating mix that not only showcases the unique personalities behind the game strategies but also nods to the cultural mosaic that is American music. From the country twangs of Morgan Wallen to the lyrical prowess of Jay-Z, here’s a closer look at the tournament coaches' top music picks.
The Swift Influence
Taylor Swift's universal appeal has managed to captivate even the NCAA Tournament coaches, marking a notable trend among the eclectic music preferences. BYU’s Mark Pope leads the Swiftie brigade in the coaching world, with his favorites spanning the emotional depth and storytelling mastery of Swift's discography. Tunes like "Cornelia Street," "New Year's Day," "Karma," "All Too Well" (the 10-minute version), and "Cruel Summer" are not just chart-toppers but also reflective of the emotional rollercoasters associated with competitive sports.
Country and More
The musical preferences of NCAA coaches go well beyond pop, dipping significantly into country music's storytelling roots. Icons such as Morgan Wallen, Luke Combs, Billy Currington, and Kenny Chesney find favor for their heart-tugging lyrics and melodies that echo the vast American landscape. This interest in country music underscores a shared narrative between the themes of perseverance, heartbreak, and triumph in both country music and collegiate sports.
A Diverse Playlist
Jeremy Camp's spiritual tunes resonate with some, offering a different kind of solace and motivation. T.J. Otzelberger, for instance, stands out for his admiration of Ed Sheeran's technical prowess with a guitar pedal, a testament to the appreciation of musical craftsmanship in the sports world. Meanwhile, the more urban beats of Drake and 2Pac are the preferred backdrop for coaches like John Calipari and Shaka Smart, showcasing a leaning towards hip-hop's rhythm and poetry.
The musical landscape spans even further to include legends like Michael Jackson, Prince, and Earth Wind & Fire, chosen by coaches such as Kevin Keatts, Leon Rice, John Groce, Rodney Terry, and Bashir Mason. The influence of Jay-Z and the Jackson Five, liked by Donald Copeland and Tom Izzo respectively, highlights the timeless appeal of these artists across generations.
The Road to the Tournament
The NCAA Tournament is not just a showcase of athletic prowess but a melting pot of cultures, preferences, and histories. As teams like UConn, Houston, Purdue, and North Carolina secure their No. 1 seeds, the tournament is also a stage for personal stories and tastes. UConn's quest to become the first repeat champion since 2007 is intertwined with its first Big East Tournament title since 2011, mirroring the highs and lows found in the playlists of the coaches.
An impressive run with only one loss since December 20 has set UConn as a team to watch, much like the compelling narratives found in their coaches' favorite songs. The intersection of sports, music, and culture through the NCAA Tournament underlines the multifaceted experiences that contribute to the richness of this competitive event.
The NCAA Tournament is more than just a series of basketball games; it is a celebration of diversity, resilience, and unity. The wide array of musical tastes among its coaches—from Taylor Swift’s narrative songwriting to the infectious rhythms of Jay-Z—adds another layer to the tournament’s already rich tapestry. As March Madness unfolds, it does so to the soundtrack of an eclectic mix that reflects the broad spectrum of American culture, united by the universal language of music and the unifying love of basketball.
