Edited by Azizi Powell
Revised- October 26, 2018
This post provides information and examples of children's foot stomping cheers and foot stomps.
The content of this post is presented for historical, cultural, and recreational purposes.
All copyrights remain with their owners.
Thanks to all those who are quoted in this post.
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DESCRIPTION OF FOOT STOMPING CHEERS
"Foot stomping cheers" is the term that I coined in 2000 for a relatively new category of children's recreational play that involves chanting and choreographed foot and hand clapping movements.
Foot stomping cheers "traditionally" have a signature group call & consecutive soloist response structure. "Group call" means that the entire group (or the group minus the first soloist) is heard first. "Consecutive soloist"' means that in that cheer is immediately repeated from the beginning so that every member of the squad can an opportunity to be the soloist. Each soloist's performance is the same length. Some foot stomping cheers have several group calls followed by brief responses by the soloist before the soloist has a somewhat longer verbal and/or movement response. Other foot stomping cheers have one or two group calls followed by the soloist's verbal and/or movement response.
Another signature feature of the textual style of foot stomping cheers is that the cheer is supposed to be repeated in its entirety (sometimes with soloist text changes and sometimes not) until every group member has one turn as the soloist.
Traditionally, foot stomping cheers are chanted while the group performs a synchronized, percussive routine in which individual hand claps (chanters clapping their own hands and sometimes substitutes hand claps for body pats) alternates with bass sounding foot stomps. Once this foot stomping routine begins, it is supposed to continue throughout the routine. However, toward the end of most examples of foot stomping cheers that I've found, the soloist chants a verse or line. That soloist's portion serves as a "call" and the group has a responsive line or lines during that call. While the rest of the group watches, the soloist usually performs a dance step or steps, and/or pantomime movements, and/or gymnastic movements during this portion of the cheer.
In some cheers that I've found, the cheer ends with the entire group-including the soloist- performing the same exact movements that the soloist performed. The cheer then immediately begins from the beginning with the next soloist and that pattern continues until every member of the group has had a turn as the soloist (hence the term "consecutive soloists). Each soloist turn is exactly the same length. In some cheers, the words and movements are exactly the same with each soloist, except for personal information such as the soloist's name or nickname and the soloist's astrological sun sign. In other cheers, the words for the soloist portions can change within a seemingly small memorized, formulaic set of verses that have the same theme and the same rhythmical pattern.
It appears to me that one difference between "old school" foot stomping cheers, and those types of cheers that are performed since at least the 1990s (which I call "neo-foot stomping cheers") is that- instead of being informally performed by children or pre-teens pretending to be cheerleaders- these cheers (or modified versions of these cheers) are performed by actual (children's and teenage) cheerleaders either during the warm up to a game, or during "cheer offs" (cheer competitions), or as part of the cheerleading squad's cheer performances during actual athletic competitions.
It also appears to me that the post 1990s new forms of foot stomping cheer performances have much less foot stomping or no foot stomping at all- particularly when these cheers are performed by squads that are majority White. Instead of actual syncopated, choreographed foot stomping routines, nowadays performances of modified or actual foot stomping cheers (particularly with squads which are majority White) feature much more pantomiming of actions, such as "turn around" and "touch the ground". Also, it appears to me that these new foot stomping cheer performances by majority non-Black squads appears to feature little to no dance moves, and more actual standing, jumping up and down, and shaking pompoms. Furthermore, all individual members of the squad may not have a turn as the soloist. Instead, the squad is divided into sub-sets (such as school grade levels, or two or more line formations) that have their own "soloists time". Also, instead of individual soloist, or sub-sets of the squad, the entire squad might recite these neo-foot stomping cheers.
Click http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2016/09/foot-stomping-cheers-alphabetical-list.html for Part I of a five part series of text (word only) examples of foot stomping cheers.
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GENERAL DESCRIPTIONS OF FOOT STOMPS (STOMPS)
The term "stomp cheers" ("stomps") appears to have been coined in the early 2000s as a referent for certain types of cheers and chants that are performed by children and teenagers (usually females), ages 5-18 years old, who are members of athletic teams' cheer squads. Most stomp cheer videos on YouTube feature White American female teenagers.
I believe that stomp cheers are an adaptation of - if not appropriation of- African American originated foot stomping cheers that are often combined with the African American orginated cheer/chant performance styles of stepping, and, less often, stomp and shake cheerleading. But then again, instead of an appropriation, stomp cheers could be considered a folk processed form of that performance art or performance art forms.
STOMP CHEER THEMES
Stomp cheers may focus on introduction. However, unlike foot stomping cheer, the introduction often is of the cheer squad itself and not its individual members.
The words to stomp cheers may also provide an opportunity for the squad to dance as a group or as individuals. Some stomp cheers are confrontational, but usually not as much as foot some foot stomping cheers. And the bragging that occurs in stomp cheers is often bragging about the athletic team, or the school, and not the individual members.
Stomp cheers also focus on the actual game (for instance calling for more offense or defense.) And those cheers also directly address the crowd (for instance, asking the crowd to repeat a line in a chant.) Since foot stomping cheers usually have no audience, they don't include any references to an audience.
Some stomp cheers repeat themselves with a new soloist after one rendition of that cheer. However, unlike foot stomping cheers, every member of the cheerleading squad may not get a turn as the soloist for that cheer, or they may not get an equal turn (a turn for the same amount of time.)
DIFFERENCES I'VE NOTICED IN THE "ATTITUDE" IN THE PERFORMANCES OF STOMP CHEERS AND THE PERFORMANCES OF AFRICAN AMERICAN ORIGINATED CHEER/CHANT MOVEMENT ARTS
In my opinion, the main difference between the chanting that's done in stomp cheers and the chanting that is done in three African American originated movement arts-foot stomping cheers; historically Black Greek letter fraternity/sorority stepping, and stomp and shake cheerleading is whether or not those performers convey "attitude".
In most of the stomp cheer videos I've seen, when they are chanting confrontational/bragging cheers, the (usually White) stomp cheerleaders in those videos don't have the super-confident, aggressive, "don't mess with me 'cause we come to battle" demeanor (dramatized or otherwise) that is integral to those cheers.
Furthermore, the foot stomping movements often seem too mechanical to me. By "mechanical" I mean that not only are the stomps and other movements in the stomp routine not crisp (tight, sharp, on point), but it often seems as though the cheerleaders are performing the movements machine like, from memory, without any spirit or energy.
Here's an observation that I included in a 2013 pancocojams post on foot stomping cheers:
Drama (role playing) is supposed to be an important part of chanting insult/bragging foot stomping cheers. These cheer performances fail if the stompers/chanters don't have "attitude" (i.e. How they say the cheer (intonation), their facial expressions, their moves and body gestures are supposed to support and reinforce the word of the cheer. For instance, in confrontational (insult, bragging) cheers the girls are pretending to have disdain for and aggressive stance toward their (imaginary, unnamed) opponent. http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2013/05/an-overview-of-foot-stomping-cheers.html An Overview Of Foot Stomping Cheers (Part I- Characteristic & Sources).
I believe that this observation also applies to the performance of historically Black Greek letter fraternity/sorority stepping chants and to the performance of stomp and shake cheers.
STOMP CHEER PERFORMANCE MOVES
Many but not all stomp cheers include the word "stomp" and a brief stomp clap routine. However, the beat pattern of stomp cheers may differ from that of foot stomping cheers. And in some stomp cheers the same beat pattern isn't done in a metronone manner throughout the entire cheer as is the case with foot stomping cheers.
PERFORMING OTHER TEAMS'/SQUAD'S CHEERS
Apart from whether stepping performances in mainstream cheerleading are done well, I think that stomp cheer squads aren't aware that it's considered socially incorrect (bad form) to perform, even in a modified manner, the distinctive signature step moves and/or chants/cheers that are associated with a particular historically Black Greek fraternity/sorority or a stomp and cheer cheerleading team.
With regard to historically Black Greek letter fraternities & sororities, those moves/chants are only supposed to be performed by members of those particular organizations.
With regard to university stomp and shake cheer squads, the protocol appears to be that those cheers with their signature movements are supposed to only be performed by high school or middle school squads who were taught them by members of that particular university's cheer squad who composed and choreographed those cheers.
However, since YouTube showcases videos of historically Black Greek letter fraternity and sorority step teams' ping and historically Black colleges and universities stomp and shake cheerleading squads, it's very easy to learn other organizations' and cheer squads' steps and cheers. Therefore, particularly in the case of stomp and shake cheers, certain cheers have become very popular.
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TEXT (WORD) EXAMPLES OF SOME STOMP CHEERS
Example #1:
Cheerleaders: Hey Cherokees!
Crowd: Hey What!
Cheerleaders: Let me see you get down! Let me see you shake it!
Crowd: No way!
Cheerleaders: Jump shake your booty! Jump! Jump! Shake your booty!
Cheerleaders: Hey Cherokees!
Crowd: Hey What!
Cheerleaders: Let me see you get down! Let me see you shake it!
Crowd: Okay!
Cheerleaders: Jump shake your booty! Jump! Jump! Shake your booty!
Cherokees! We wanna see you stomp (stomp) and shake it! (repeat)
-SEXYTAYLOR17, http://cheerleading.about.com/od/collectionofcheers/l/blcheer3.htm
-snip-
Click http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2013/05/an-overview-of-foot-stomping-movement.html for an example of "Get Down".
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Example #2:
Irish fans in the stands,
let me hear you clap your hands.
(clap clap clap clap clap clap clap clap clap clap clap)
Now that you've got the beat, let me hear you stomp your feet
(stomp stomp stomp stomp stomp stomp stomp stomp stomp stomp stomp)
Now that you've got the groove, let me see your body move
Ahuga ahah Ahuga (clap clap)
-SEXYTAYLOR17, http://cheerleading.about.com/od/collectionofcheers/l/blcheer3.htm
-snip-
"Irish" is probably part of the team name or part of the name of the high school.
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Example #3:
You may be good at Football
You may be good at Track
But when it comes to Wrestling
You better watch your Back
Cadets Attack!
(Stomp, Clap, Stomp Stomp, Clap, Stomp Stomp, Clap Clap, Stomp Stomp, Clap)
Repeat Once
Repeat Cheer and Stomp and Clap
-no name given, http://cheerleading.about.com/od/cheerschantsyells/a/cheers100.htm
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Example #4:
The one i learned when i was in 5th grade was (out mascot was an eagle so we replaced girls with eagles):
Bang bang choo choo train
Come on Eagles do your thing
Peanut better reese cup
Mess with us, see whats up
To the front to the back to the front back side side
Let me see your butterfly
And shake and shake your funky little hips
Now i want you and you too cheer with me too
-Amanda,cocojams.com, June 21, 2012
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VIDEO EXAMPLES OF STOMP CHEERS
These examples are presented in no particular order.
Example #1: Stomp Cheer
kmt122181, Uploaded on Jul 14, 2008
Stomp Cheer
-anip-
The narrator says "You have to remember that the most difficult thing about this cheer is keeping the beat". The neat pattern these girls are using for this routine as superimposed on the screen is
"stomp x stomp stomp x stomp stomp xx stomp stomp x" ["x" = clap]
-snip-
There are two standard beat patterns for foot stomping cheers. Those patterns remind consistent throughout almost all cheers. They are either "stomp x stomp stomp x" or "stomp stomp x stomp stomp x">
-snip-
I think that if these girls had raised their feet higher off the ground, they would have gotten a deeper bass tone. That bass is what steppers doing foot stomping cheers want to achieve.
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Example #2: Reno Cheerleading Stomp
Anne Goodman. Published on Mar 25, 2013
2011 RHS
-snip-
The switching movements that this cheer squad does before they begin their routine reminds me of the switching, preening movements that are a signature feature of the historically Black Greek letter sorority Alpha Kappa Alpha. Click https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cpvlfWVYX6s
That type of female preening isn't at all a part of stomp and shake cheerleading. That switching movements also doesn't occur as a prelude to foot stomping cheers - although girls often shake their hips during
their solo portion of those cheers. Also,
for a video of those same movements by those sorors.
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Example #3: Sikeston Cheer 2014 Stomp
T&Cs Dad, Published on Apr 11, 2014
-snip-
Click for another stomp vide of this cheer squad. Both videos really remind me of the signature, distinctive step style of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. The chant in the video that is embedded in this post also is a lot like (same tune as) a Que (Omega Psi Phi) chant that is well known to those who are familiar with historically Black Greek letter fraternities.
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Example #4: Cheer Squad Stomp During Pep Rally
Shelly Tan,Uploaded on Aug 10, 2010
The 09-10 JV and Freshman Cheerleaders doing a stomp for the Bird Bowl Pep Rally! :)
i had a blast with these girls, some of my bestest friends EVER.
-snip-
I think that this cheer squad didn't convey the attitude and spirit that I believe is an integral part of foot stomping cheer performances, or that I think should be an integral part of stomp cheer performances. Also, a cheer squads performance would make the audieence be attentive. The cheerleaders don't have to tell the crowd to be quiet. Actually, in the case of stomp and shake cheerleaders, or historically Black fraternity or sorority step teams, the cheer squad wants to raise the enthusiasm of the crowd (pump them up). They don't want the crowd to be quiet.
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RELATED LINK
http://cocojams2.blogspot.com/2014/11/the-african-american-sources-of-bring.html The African American Sources Of Bring It On (2000 & 2006) Movies Cheers
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Thanks to all those who are quoted in this post and who are featured in these videos. Thanks also to those who published these videos on YouTube.
The content of this post is presented for folkloric and recreational purposes.
Thanks for visiting pancocojams.
Visitor comments are welcome.
Showing posts with label Steppin. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Steppin. Show all posts
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Sunday, September 22, 2013
Black Fraternity & Sorority Calls (Information & Comments)
Edited by Azizi Powell
Latest Revision: August 1, 2024
This is Part I of a two part pancocojams series on historically Black Greek letter organizations (BGLO) calls.
This post provides information and comments about BGLO signature calls and a list of the signature calls for the nine historically Black Greek letter organizations that are informally referred to as "The Divine Nine".
This post also provides excerpts of two Greekchat.com discussions about historically Black Greek letter fraternities and sorority calls and hand signs.
Click http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2013/09/seven-videos-of-black-greek-fraternity.html for Part II of this series. Part II showcases seven YouTube videos of Black Greek Roll Calls.
The content of this post is provided for folkloric, cultural, and aesthetic purposes.
All copyrights remain with their owners.
Thanks to all those who are quoted in this post.
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PANCOCOJAMS EDITORIAL COMMENT
[Latest revision: May 30, 2024]
I recognize that providing information about Black Greek lettered fraternity/sorority calls is very much frowned upon by most members of those organizations. While I agree with the position that the history & meaning of these calls doesn't need to be shared with persons who aren't affiliated with those specific organizations, I believe that the horse has already left the barn regarding sharing written and audio examples of the specific calls with the general public. I say this because those calls are routinely performed in public at Greek step shows, Greek strolls, and other Greek events, and those calls and chants are also showcased on YouTube videos and on other online websites.
As a community folklorist who is primarily interested in African American folk cultures, I believe it's my responsibility to document & disseminate as much cultural information as possible about BGLO fraternities and sororities, without violating the privacy of those organizations. For that reason I'm including lengthy excerpts about the subject of fraternity and sorority calls (and hand signs) from two Greekchat.com discussion threads. And, also for that reason, I'm providing definitions of and a list of "Divine Nine" calls ("Divine Nine" are nine historically Black fraternities and sororities that are members of the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC). Click https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Pan-Hellenic_Council for information about the National Pan-Hellenic council and a list of that Council's member organizations that are informally referred to as the "Divine Nine".
Note: When this post was first published I declined to list these calls. However, on June 30, 2017 as part of my research on a prospective pancocojams post (on Stomp & Shake cheerleader yelps and historically Black Greek letter sororities calls)*, I re-read this article and was dissatisfied with it.
Here's the link to that pancocojams post: https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2017/07/are-black-fraternity-sorority-calls.html Are Black Fraternity & Sorority Calls And Stomp & Shake Cheerleading Yelps Remnants Of Plantation Field Hollers And/Or African Ululation?
It seems to me that people (including me) aren't as intent on finding out why Greek letter organizations made up or chose their particular call as we are in finding out why Black Greek letter organizations have that custom, what the purpose or purposes of the calls is/are, and how each organizations call is written and sounds.
For those reasons, I've added more definitions of fraternity & sorority calls to the section below and have updated the videos of calls that are found in Part I of this series.
And I've added what my response would be if someone asks me* what historically Black Greek letter organization calls are and why BGLO have calls.
WHY HISTORICALLY BLACK GREEK LETTER ORGANIZATIONS HAVE SIGNATURE CALLS AND ALSO USE COMBINATION CALLS [revised May 30, 2024)
*I'm a long time inactive member of a BGLO (Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.), but I feel that -inactive or not- I can still respond to these questions:
If someone were to ask me what are BGLO fraternity and sorority calls, I would respond that
historically Black Greek lettered organization calls are signature sounds that members of a particular organization make to demonstrate and celebrate their membership in that organization and all that it means to them. That signature calls can be used to get the attention of other member or members of their organization who are some distance away. Calls can also be used to greet another member or member of that organization, and calls can also be used to "represent" (promote, "big up") their organization during public events.
"Combination calls" are vocalized or are written online and elsewhere by a member of one historically Greek letter fraternity or sorority to a member of another historically Greek letter organization. Those "combination calls" are made by using the beginning part of the call that represents the person's organization with part of the signature call of the organization that the person she or he is addressing belongs to. (For example, "Skee Phi" - a call made by a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.(whose call is "Skee Wee") to a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (whose call, in part, is "A- Phi") .
Out of respect, members of that particular organization are the only ones who should vocalize or otherwise use that organization's call.
If someone were to ask me why historically Black Greek Letter Organization have calls, I would respond that "Calls are part of Black history and culture" - extending back to field hollers (arwhoolie) and perhaps even extending back to African musical traditions.
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GENERAL DEFINITIONS:
Fraternity & Sorority "Calls" [Latest revision July 1, 2017]
Historically Black [university based] Greek letter fraternity & sorority calls are signature vocalizations that members of a specific organization make to alert a member or members of that organization in the distance to his or her presence, and/or to greet another member or members of that specific organization. Historically Black fraternity & sorority cheers also are voiced to foster organizational unity and to "represent" (promote, "big up") their organization during their own chanting and/or celebratory gatherings and during public events.
A fraternity and sorority might have more than one signature call. These calls are usually informal (i.e. not recognized as an official part of that organization by that organization's governing body.) Non-members of a specific organization are strictly prohibited from verbally or in writing using that organization's call in public or in private.
Fraternity & Sorority "Roll calls"
When used by historically Black [university based] Fraternity & sororities (BGLOs) - and particularly by those BGLOs that are known as "The Divine Nine"*, "roll calls" refer to the consecutive vocalization of their signature call/s by multiple BGLOs during a public event. A host or moderator of that event formally announces each organization, usually in the order of their founding, beginning with the earliest founded fraternity and then, after the fraternities are recognized, beginning with the earliest founded sorority. Representatives of "sister" or "brother" organizations may respond to a call with their own call.
Also, as an expression of admiration and/or unity, a member of a Divine Nine organization might combine their own signature call with part of the signature call of another member "Divine Nine" organization (either fraternity or sorority).* That said, I've read that some BGLO members disagree with that practice.
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DEFINITIONS FOR AND PURPOSES OF FRATERNITY/SORORITY TERM "CALLS" (from various universities' Greek organization glossaries)
These definitions are given in no particular order and are numbered for referencing purposes only.
1. http://gogreek.okstate.edu/glossary
Oklahoma State University Go Greek Glossary
"Calls
A unique vocal expression attributed to an organization. Calls are special to members and shouldn't be replicated by non-members."
2. From https://www.unlv.edu/getinvolved/greek-definitions Fraternity and Sorority Definitions (Greek Dictionary)
"Call/Chant
Audible sounds used by members to acknowledge or gain the attention of other members. Calls may vary regionally within organizations, and some organizations may use more than one call."
3. From http://uca.edu/nphc/terminology/
"Calls – a unique vocal expression attributed to an organization. Please Do: Enjoy listening to the unique calls of the groups. Please Don’t: Repeat an organization’s particular call or response. It is considered a sign of disrespect."
4. From https://www.sa.sc.edu/fsl/greek-glossary/
"Call – A yell used mostly by NPHC organizations (although some NIC, NPC and local orgs have calls as well). Used to identify and greet brothers and sisters. For example, Alpha Kappa Alpha's call is SKEE-WEE. Non-members are not permitted to use the call.
NIC– Stands for North American Interfraternity Conference, and is the national coordinating body of all the men's fraternities. It does not enforce policies on the local IFC’s, and is totally different from the purpose of NPC and NPHC.
NPC– The National Panhellenic Conference is the organization that governs the 26 national women's sororities.
NPHC– The National Pan-Hellenic Council, the governing body of the 9 traditionally African American fraternities and sororities, also known as the Divine Nine. Also the local governing council for the NPHC organizations."
-snip-
NPC is primarily a PWI organization ["PWI" is a term that I've often found used since the 2000s which means "Predominately White Institution"]. That term can be said to be the opposite of historically BGLO which means historically Black Greek Letter Organizations". "PWI" refers to historically and present day fraternities and sororities whose had/have mostly White members. In the past and currently, almost all the members of historically Black Greek letter organizations were/are Black. However, there have been and still are a small number of non-Black members of those organizations.
Three of the four historically Black fraternities are members of NIC. Those historically Black fraternities are:
Kappa Alpha Psi
Alpha Phi Alpha
Iota Phi Theta
not Omega Psi Phi"
Source: http://nicindy.org/about/members/ [retrieved June 30, 2017]
-snip-
UPDATE December 23, 2019: Anonymous wrote a comment in the discussion thread below pointing out that this excerpt didn't include Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. in its lists of historically Black Greek letter fraternities. That excerpt may have only listed fraternities that have active chapters at that particular university. However, Anonymous is certainly correct that there are five historically Black Greek letter fraternities. Thanks, Anonymous for pointing that out.
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LIST OF NINE HISTORICALLY BLACK GREEK LETTER ORGANIZATION ("THE DIVINE NINE") CALLS
These organizations are given in categories (Fraternities/Sororities) and in chronological order with the earliest founded organizations in that category listed first.
Letters [or numbers] in these calls are often repeated to show to stretch out the call which shows enthusiasm.
Additions and corrections are welcome.
Fraternities:
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (1906)
call: "19" [response] "O6"
Response to that response [from a member or members of Alpha Phi Alpha] - "You know"
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Kappa Alpha Psi, Fraternity Inc. (1911)
"Yo Yo"
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Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. (1911)
"Roo" or "Roo Roo" [also written "RΩΩ"]
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Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. (1914)
call: "Blue Phi"; response: "You know"
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Iota Phi Theta, Fraternity, Inc. (1963)
"Ow Ow"
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Sororities
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (1908)
"Skee Wee"
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Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
"Oo-Oop"
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Zeta Phi Beta Sorority,Inc. (1920)
"Z-Phi"
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Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. (1922)
"Eee-Yip"
-snip-
Note that these calls are usually elongated, for example, the Delta's call is often pronounced and written "Oooo- ooooop!"
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EXAMPLES OF EIGHT CALLS OF THE PAN-HELLENIC COUNCIL [DIVINE NINE] ORGANIZATIONS
Greek Speak Roll Call
UABStudentLife, Published on Sep 19, 2008 [the University of Alabama at Birmingham (Alabama)]
Check out the eight organizations of UAB's NPHC.
-snip-
This video doesn't include representatives of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. Because that organization wasn't formed until the 1960s, there are fewer chapters of that fraternity nationwide than any other BGLO.
Additional examples of these calls are given in the videos that are showcased in Part II of this series:.http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2013/09/seven-videos-of-black-greek-fraternity.html
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INFORMATION ABOUT NATIONAL PAN HELLENIC COUNCIL [NPHC]
From http://www.nphchq.org/mission.htm
"The National Pan-Hellenic Council, Incorporated (NPHC) is currently composed of nine (9) International Greek letter Sororities and Fraternities: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc., Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. NPHC promotes interaction through forums, meetings and other mediums for the exchange of information and engages in cooperative programming and initiatives through various activities and functions."
-snip-
The nine organizations listed above are informally referred to as "The Divine Nine".
Click http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_African-American_Greek_and_fraternal_organizations for a list of some other historically Black fraternities or historically Black sororities.
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A STATEMENT ABOUT CALLS & HAND SIGNS BY NATIONAL PAN-HELLENIC COUNCIL
From http://www.afa1976.org/Portals/0/Membership_Intake_Guide_NPHC.pdf NPHC National Membership Intake Guide
Hand Signs & Calls
"Hand signs and calls have evolved into another historical facet of Black fraternal organization life. According to Kimbrough (2003), the concept of calls is embedded in both African and African-American tradition. These sounds were a form of yodeling known as whooping in the Congo and Angola tribes. Additionally, these audible sounds, also known as cries and arhoolies, could he heard being sung by slaves. It is not clear when calls were first used, however, it seems possible that calls used by NPHC organizations became prevalent during the mid-1970’s.*
Much like calls, the exact origin of hand signs cannot be pinpointed. According to Kimbrough (2003), pictures from college campuses of Black fraternities and sororities indicate that hand signs became a part of the Black fraternal experience during the 1970’s. Although it is not clear how calls and hand signs evolved, these traditions are long standing.
These universal symbols can be seen as exclusive outward expressions of pride and of strong organizational identification."
-snip-
*As a matter of information, I crossed over as a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. in 1967. (Gamma Zeta chapter, New Jersey, 1967). I definitely remember hearing and performing that organization's signature call "Skee Weee". I also definitely remember seeing and doing the organization's secret handshake.
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ADDENDUM: SELECTED COMMENTS FROM TWO GREEK CHAT DISCUSSION THREADS ABOUT BGLO CALLS
From http://www.greekchat.com/gcforums/showthread.php?t=280
"How were calls started?
Finer Woman10-A-91
Location: New York, NY
“The answer to your query is privileged information with respect to all of NPHC. And chances are no one will tell you on this board. You have guts for asking. But tell me this...would you have actually asked a member of the organization you are interested in this question in person?”
Quote:
Originally posted by InterestedGDI:
"I certainly don't want to pry into anyones secrets but I am interested in knowing how and who was the first sorority/fraternity to start doing calls, if anyone knows any back up history on calls and why they are done it would be greatly appreciated"...
**
06-27-2000, 01:15 PM
AKAtude
Location: SC
Well, if anyone has been hearing the calls for years on your campus (or anywhere for that matter), then common sense would tell you that yes, it is done between one frat/sorority member to another. I knew that without anyone telling me. If you observe then you will learn.
**
http://www.greekchat.com/gcforums/showthread.php?t=280&page=2
06-28-2000, 12:10 AM
alsoCurious
"Quote:
Originally posted by ZetaAce:
Wow, I think I can hear the Sarcasm.
I think AKAtude's point is, if you already asked someone and you got the exact same answer, what in the world makes you think that you're going to get more information on the internet. A lot of times people who are interested ask questions on the net that they KNOW they would not ask a member face to face."
ZetaAce
"I think there is a misunderstanding. I never asked someone this question, since I don't know anyone in those organizations and there aren't any on my campus. However, if the Internet did not exist as a forum through which to pose this question, and I met someone who was making a call, then I would ask the person the same question, because I would be curious s to what the heck they were doing. After all, how am I to know that the question is a faux-pas? Then if they said, "I'm sorry, but I can't tell you that", then I would respect their response & leave it at that.
It is kind of like when the media ask a lawyer something that is privileged ...the lawyer would just say, "I'm sorry. That is privileged information"."
****
From http://www.greekchat.com/gcforums/showthread.php?postid=4165 "HAVE YALL EVER NOTICED HOW BGLOS.........."
07-19-2000, 09:00 AM
ManndingoNUPE
Location: Washington, DC
..."If you have wonder to yourself, "should I ask this question?" you probably shouldn't, because you will not get an answer, and while we are not trying to be elitist, we may end up hurting your feelings. I don't think that the Greeks on here are snobbish or mean spirited, but we do get tired of the same old questions that you know we can't and won't answer.
Most fraternities and sororities are secret organizations, and we guard our secrets from outsiders.
Now this is not to sound elitist or stand offish, but you will never learn our secrets unless you join our organizations, PERIOD.
So if you have a particular question of an organization that you are interested in, go to that organizations section, and ask one of the members. But don't get bent out of shape because someone answers you in a way that you may not like. "...
**
07-18-2000, 08:25 PM
NUPE4LIFE
Location: TALLAHASSEE
..."Like in the Nupe forum, someone asked me and my bruhs what are call was. That's HIGHLY INAPPROPRIATE! This forum was set up, like the AKA said, to serve as a place where Greeks can come and talk about issues affecting us all. But we also talk about real world issue outside of the Greek realm. That's why we're here. If you have any question about how to join a certain BGLO, I would tell you here and to your face that you must do research. It's not that we're being rude, but people expect you to give them the keys to your organization without them having to work hard for them. I'm sure the rest of the DIVINE NINE would tell you the same also. I'm sorry if that's not to your liking. So now you know why we have this website, now you know what questions to ask. The expression that "no question is a stupid question", is not true. I'm saying you but a lot of interested people have come up in here and ask for information that they know they're not suppose to be asking. That's my opinion."...
**
07-18-2000, 09:12 PM
2000, 09:12 PM
Rain Man
..."(Originally posted by NUPE4LIFE)
"...someone asked me...what our call was. THAT'S HIGHLY INAPPROPRIATE!"
....I am not disputing that, matter of fact I do know about the culture, norms, and mores of BGLO, having pledged in a quasi-BGLO atmosphere. After eight years, I should know something about discretion.
Seriously, N4L, I don't think the issue here is so much whether or not a certain question on Greek Life is deemed appropriate for discussion so much as I see BGLO members questioning the motive for why it is being asked.
Ex. Someone asks you why you are called Nupes.
Is the motive:
Because they hear you shout it in your chants and calls and see it on your 'nalia and is just pure curious to know what "the deal" is?
Or is it because they got blackballed after trying to join a chapter and to be vindictive, they need some "inside info" to perp the fraternity.
I remember as a 1st semester freshman, I asked a Kappa what was a Phi Nu Pi. He quietly said, "Long story." End of discussion. I never asked again. I got the message. What do you think kind of impression he would leave me about his organization if he responded by giving me a beatdown? He knew my motive was not to perp, so he just responded quietly.
Since you don't know the motive, don't be quick to attack.
WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO GOOD OLD FASHIONED TACT?!
I guess I am saying to BGLOs, if you must respond, please be tactful, not hostile and defensive. You don't know what the true motive of a person asking is, so just give a response, that while they won't know anything more about your org they could otherwise research about, they will know more OF the basic topic of the question asked."
-snip-
"your 'nalia" – paraphernalia [clothing and other items that have the organization’s colors or symbol.
"perp" – perpetrate [pretend to be something you are not]
**
http://www.greekchat.com/gcforums/showthread.php?t=437&page=3
Kymberleigh
Location: Bourbonnais Il. 60914
"Okay, so I've been reading this thread, and one thing bothers me. When ManndingoNupe made the comment that a particular question about his call was wrong. First of all there are people on this board who are Greek, and wouldn't know that asking a question like that was disrespectful. I belong to an NPC sorority and we don't have calls. So, if I had seen that or read about that somewhere I would assume it would be okay to post something here, and get a reply.
In NO way would I be trying to offend you. I would be attempting to enlighten myself. I have read so many posts where BGLO members are appreciative of the insight they receive from GLO's. So, If I wanted to know something about a BGLO I would probably post it here. If that info. was privy, then a polite response, not that of anger, would suffice.
I love this board for one main reason I learn so much about things I never knew."
****
This concludes Part I of this pancocojams series on Black Fraternity & Sorority calls.
Thank you for visiting pancocojams.
Visitor comments are welcome.
Latest Revision: August 1, 2024
This is Part I of a two part pancocojams series on historically Black Greek letter organizations (BGLO) calls.
This post provides information and comments about BGLO signature calls and a list of the signature calls for the nine historically Black Greek letter organizations that are informally referred to as "The Divine Nine".
This post also provides excerpts of two Greekchat.com discussions about historically Black Greek letter fraternities and sorority calls and hand signs.
Click http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2013/09/seven-videos-of-black-greek-fraternity.html for Part II of this series. Part II showcases seven YouTube videos of Black Greek Roll Calls.
The content of this post is provided for folkloric, cultural, and aesthetic purposes.
All copyrights remain with their owners.
Thanks to all those who are quoted in this post.
****
PANCOCOJAMS EDITORIAL COMMENT
[Latest revision: May 30, 2024]
I recognize that providing information about Black Greek lettered fraternity/sorority calls is very much frowned upon by most members of those organizations. While I agree with the position that the history & meaning of these calls doesn't need to be shared with persons who aren't affiliated with those specific organizations, I believe that the horse has already left the barn regarding sharing written and audio examples of the specific calls with the general public. I say this because those calls are routinely performed in public at Greek step shows, Greek strolls, and other Greek events, and those calls and chants are also showcased on YouTube videos and on other online websites.
As a community folklorist who is primarily interested in African American folk cultures, I believe it's my responsibility to document & disseminate as much cultural information as possible about BGLO fraternities and sororities, without violating the privacy of those organizations. For that reason I'm including lengthy excerpts about the subject of fraternity and sorority calls (and hand signs) from two Greekchat.com discussion threads. And, also for that reason, I'm providing definitions of and a list of "Divine Nine" calls ("Divine Nine" are nine historically Black fraternities and sororities that are members of the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC). Click https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Pan-Hellenic_Council for information about the National Pan-Hellenic council and a list of that Council's member organizations that are informally referred to as the "Divine Nine".
Note: When this post was first published I declined to list these calls. However, on June 30, 2017 as part of my research on a prospective pancocojams post (on Stomp & Shake cheerleader yelps and historically Black Greek letter sororities calls)*, I re-read this article and was dissatisfied with it.
Here's the link to that pancocojams post: https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2017/07/are-black-fraternity-sorority-calls.html Are Black Fraternity & Sorority Calls And Stomp & Shake Cheerleading Yelps Remnants Of Plantation Field Hollers And/Or African Ululation?
It seems to me that people (including me) aren't as intent on finding out why Greek letter organizations made up or chose their particular call as we are in finding out why Black Greek letter organizations have that custom, what the purpose or purposes of the calls is/are, and how each organizations call is written and sounds.
For those reasons, I've added more definitions of fraternity & sorority calls to the section below and have updated the videos of calls that are found in Part I of this series.
And I've added what my response would be if someone asks me* what historically Black Greek letter organization calls are and why BGLO have calls.
WHY HISTORICALLY BLACK GREEK LETTER ORGANIZATIONS HAVE SIGNATURE CALLS AND ALSO USE COMBINATION CALLS [revised May 30, 2024)
*I'm a long time inactive member of a BGLO (Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.), but I feel that -inactive or not- I can still respond to these questions:
If someone were to ask me what are BGLO fraternity and sorority calls, I would respond that
historically Black Greek lettered organization calls are signature sounds that members of a particular organization make to demonstrate and celebrate their membership in that organization and all that it means to them. That signature calls can be used to get the attention of other member or members of their organization who are some distance away. Calls can also be used to greet another member or member of that organization, and calls can also be used to "represent" (promote, "big up") their organization during public events.
"Combination calls" are vocalized or are written online and elsewhere by a member of one historically Greek letter fraternity or sorority to a member of another historically Greek letter organization. Those "combination calls" are made by using the beginning part of the call that represents the person's organization with part of the signature call of the organization that the person she or he is addressing belongs to. (For example, "Skee Phi" - a call made by a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.(whose call is "Skee Wee") to a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (whose call, in part, is "A- Phi") .
Out of respect, members of that particular organization are the only ones who should vocalize or otherwise use that organization's call.
If someone were to ask me why historically Black Greek Letter Organization have calls, I would respond that "Calls are part of Black history and culture" - extending back to field hollers (arwhoolie) and perhaps even extending back to African musical traditions.
****
GENERAL DEFINITIONS:
Fraternity & Sorority "Calls" [Latest revision July 1, 2017]
Historically Black [university based] Greek letter fraternity & sorority calls are signature vocalizations that members of a specific organization make to alert a member or members of that organization in the distance to his or her presence, and/or to greet another member or members of that specific organization. Historically Black fraternity & sorority cheers also are voiced to foster organizational unity and to "represent" (promote, "big up") their organization during their own chanting and/or celebratory gatherings and during public events.
A fraternity and sorority might have more than one signature call. These calls are usually informal (i.e. not recognized as an official part of that organization by that organization's governing body.) Non-members of a specific organization are strictly prohibited from verbally or in writing using that organization's call in public or in private.
Fraternity & Sorority "Roll calls"
When used by historically Black [university based] Fraternity & sororities (BGLOs) - and particularly by those BGLOs that are known as "The Divine Nine"*, "roll calls" refer to the consecutive vocalization of their signature call/s by multiple BGLOs during a public event. A host or moderator of that event formally announces each organization, usually in the order of their founding, beginning with the earliest founded fraternity and then, after the fraternities are recognized, beginning with the earliest founded sorority. Representatives of "sister" or "brother" organizations may respond to a call with their own call.
Also, as an expression of admiration and/or unity, a member of a Divine Nine organization might combine their own signature call with part of the signature call of another member "Divine Nine" organization (either fraternity or sorority).* That said, I've read that some BGLO members disagree with that practice.
****
DEFINITIONS FOR AND PURPOSES OF FRATERNITY/SORORITY TERM "CALLS" (from various universities' Greek organization glossaries)
These definitions are given in no particular order and are numbered for referencing purposes only.
1. http://gogreek.okstate.edu/glossary
Oklahoma State University Go Greek Glossary
"Calls
A unique vocal expression attributed to an organization. Calls are special to members and shouldn't be replicated by non-members."
2. From https://www.unlv.edu/getinvolved/greek-definitions Fraternity and Sorority Definitions (Greek Dictionary)
"Call/Chant
Audible sounds used by members to acknowledge or gain the attention of other members. Calls may vary regionally within organizations, and some organizations may use more than one call."
3. From http://uca.edu/nphc/terminology/
"Calls – a unique vocal expression attributed to an organization. Please Do: Enjoy listening to the unique calls of the groups. Please Don’t: Repeat an organization’s particular call or response. It is considered a sign of disrespect."
4. From https://www.sa.sc.edu/fsl/greek-glossary/
"Call – A yell used mostly by NPHC organizations (although some NIC, NPC and local orgs have calls as well). Used to identify and greet brothers and sisters. For example, Alpha Kappa Alpha's call is SKEE-WEE. Non-members are not permitted to use the call.
NIC– Stands for North American Interfraternity Conference, and is the national coordinating body of all the men's fraternities. It does not enforce policies on the local IFC’s, and is totally different from the purpose of NPC and NPHC.
NPC– The National Panhellenic Conference is the organization that governs the 26 national women's sororities.
NPHC– The National Pan-Hellenic Council, the governing body of the 9 traditionally African American fraternities and sororities, also known as the Divine Nine. Also the local governing council for the NPHC organizations."
-snip-
NPC is primarily a PWI organization ["PWI" is a term that I've often found used since the 2000s which means "Predominately White Institution"]. That term can be said to be the opposite of historically BGLO which means historically Black Greek Letter Organizations". "PWI" refers to historically and present day fraternities and sororities whose had/have mostly White members. In the past and currently, almost all the members of historically Black Greek letter organizations were/are Black. However, there have been and still are a small number of non-Black members of those organizations.
Three of the four historically Black fraternities are members of NIC. Those historically Black fraternities are:
Kappa Alpha Psi
Alpha Phi Alpha
Iota Phi Theta
not Omega Psi Phi"
Source: http://nicindy.org/about/members/ [retrieved June 30, 2017]
-snip-
UPDATE December 23, 2019: Anonymous wrote a comment in the discussion thread below pointing out that this excerpt didn't include Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. in its lists of historically Black Greek letter fraternities. That excerpt may have only listed fraternities that have active chapters at that particular university. However, Anonymous is certainly correct that there are five historically Black Greek letter fraternities. Thanks, Anonymous for pointing that out.
****
LIST OF NINE HISTORICALLY BLACK GREEK LETTER ORGANIZATION ("THE DIVINE NINE") CALLS
These organizations are given in categories (Fraternities/Sororities) and in chronological order with the earliest founded organizations in that category listed first.
Letters [or numbers] in these calls are often repeated to show to stretch out the call which shows enthusiasm.
Additions and corrections are welcome.
Fraternities:
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (1906)
call: "19" [response] "O6"
Response to that response [from a member or members of Alpha Phi Alpha] - "You know"
****
Kappa Alpha Psi, Fraternity Inc. (1911)
"Yo Yo"
****
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. (1911)
"Roo" or "Roo Roo" [also written "RΩΩ"]
****
Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. (1914)
call: "Blue Phi"; response: "You know"
****
Iota Phi Theta, Fraternity, Inc. (1963)
"Ow Ow"
****
Sororities
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (1908)
"Skee Wee"
****
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
"Oo-Oop"
****
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority,Inc. (1920)
"Z-Phi"
****
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. (1922)
"Eee-Yip"
-snip-
Note that these calls are usually elongated, for example, the Delta's call is often pronounced and written "Oooo- ooooop!"
****
EXAMPLES OF EIGHT CALLS OF THE PAN-HELLENIC COUNCIL [DIVINE NINE] ORGANIZATIONS
Greek Speak Roll Call
UABStudentLife, Published on Sep 19, 2008 [the University of Alabama at Birmingham (Alabama)]
Check out the eight organizations of UAB's NPHC.
-snip-
This video doesn't include representatives of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. Because that organization wasn't formed until the 1960s, there are fewer chapters of that fraternity nationwide than any other BGLO.
Additional examples of these calls are given in the videos that are showcased in Part II of this series:.http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2013/09/seven-videos-of-black-greek-fraternity.html
****
INFORMATION ABOUT NATIONAL PAN HELLENIC COUNCIL [NPHC]
From http://www.nphchq.org/mission.htm
"The National Pan-Hellenic Council, Incorporated (NPHC) is currently composed of nine (9) International Greek letter Sororities and Fraternities: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc., Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. NPHC promotes interaction through forums, meetings and other mediums for the exchange of information and engages in cooperative programming and initiatives through various activities and functions."
-snip-
The nine organizations listed above are informally referred to as "The Divine Nine".
Click http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_African-American_Greek_and_fraternal_organizations for a list of some other historically Black fraternities or historically Black sororities.
****
A STATEMENT ABOUT CALLS & HAND SIGNS BY NATIONAL PAN-HELLENIC COUNCIL
From http://www.afa1976.org/Portals/0/Membership_Intake_Guide_NPHC.pdf NPHC National Membership Intake Guide
Hand Signs & Calls
"Hand signs and calls have evolved into another historical facet of Black fraternal organization life. According to Kimbrough (2003), the concept of calls is embedded in both African and African-American tradition. These sounds were a form of yodeling known as whooping in the Congo and Angola tribes. Additionally, these audible sounds, also known as cries and arhoolies, could he heard being sung by slaves. It is not clear when calls were first used, however, it seems possible that calls used by NPHC organizations became prevalent during the mid-1970’s.*
Much like calls, the exact origin of hand signs cannot be pinpointed. According to Kimbrough (2003), pictures from college campuses of Black fraternities and sororities indicate that hand signs became a part of the Black fraternal experience during the 1970’s. Although it is not clear how calls and hand signs evolved, these traditions are long standing.
These universal symbols can be seen as exclusive outward expressions of pride and of strong organizational identification."
-snip-
*As a matter of information, I crossed over as a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. in 1967. (Gamma Zeta chapter, New Jersey, 1967). I definitely remember hearing and performing that organization's signature call "Skee Weee". I also definitely remember seeing and doing the organization's secret handshake.
****
ADDENDUM: SELECTED COMMENTS FROM TWO GREEK CHAT DISCUSSION THREADS ABOUT BGLO CALLS
From http://www.greekchat.com/gcforums/showthread.php?t=280
"How were calls started?
Finer Woman10-A-91
Location: New York, NY
“The answer to your query is privileged information with respect to all of NPHC. And chances are no one will tell you on this board. You have guts for asking. But tell me this...would you have actually asked a member of the organization you are interested in this question in person?”
Quote:
Originally posted by InterestedGDI:
"I certainly don't want to pry into anyones secrets but I am interested in knowing how and who was the first sorority/fraternity to start doing calls, if anyone knows any back up history on calls and why they are done it would be greatly appreciated"...
**
06-27-2000, 01:15 PM
AKAtude
Location: SC
Well, if anyone has been hearing the calls for years on your campus (or anywhere for that matter), then common sense would tell you that yes, it is done between one frat/sorority member to another. I knew that without anyone telling me. If you observe then you will learn.
**
http://www.greekchat.com/gcforums/showthread.php?t=280&page=2
06-28-2000, 12:10 AM
alsoCurious
"Quote:
Originally posted by ZetaAce:
Wow, I think I can hear the Sarcasm.
I think AKAtude's point is, if you already asked someone and you got the exact same answer, what in the world makes you think that you're going to get more information on the internet. A lot of times people who are interested ask questions on the net that they KNOW they would not ask a member face to face."
ZetaAce
"I think there is a misunderstanding. I never asked someone this question, since I don't know anyone in those organizations and there aren't any on my campus. However, if the Internet did not exist as a forum through which to pose this question, and I met someone who was making a call, then I would ask the person the same question, because I would be curious s to what the heck they were doing. After all, how am I to know that the question is a faux-pas? Then if they said, "I'm sorry, but I can't tell you that", then I would respect their response & leave it at that.
It is kind of like when the media ask a lawyer something that is privileged ...the lawyer would just say, "I'm sorry. That is privileged information"."
****
From http://www.greekchat.com/gcforums/showthread.php?postid=4165 "HAVE YALL EVER NOTICED HOW BGLOS.........."
07-19-2000, 09:00 AM
ManndingoNUPE
Location: Washington, DC
..."If you have wonder to yourself, "should I ask this question?" you probably shouldn't, because you will not get an answer, and while we are not trying to be elitist, we may end up hurting your feelings. I don't think that the Greeks on here are snobbish or mean spirited, but we do get tired of the same old questions that you know we can't and won't answer.
Most fraternities and sororities are secret organizations, and we guard our secrets from outsiders.
Now this is not to sound elitist or stand offish, but you will never learn our secrets unless you join our organizations, PERIOD.
So if you have a particular question of an organization that you are interested in, go to that organizations section, and ask one of the members. But don't get bent out of shape because someone answers you in a way that you may not like. "...
**
07-18-2000, 08:25 PM
NUPE4LIFE
Location: TALLAHASSEE
..."Like in the Nupe forum, someone asked me and my bruhs what are call was. That's HIGHLY INAPPROPRIATE! This forum was set up, like the AKA said, to serve as a place where Greeks can come and talk about issues affecting us all. But we also talk about real world issue outside of the Greek realm. That's why we're here. If you have any question about how to join a certain BGLO, I would tell you here and to your face that you must do research. It's not that we're being rude, but people expect you to give them the keys to your organization without them having to work hard for them. I'm sure the rest of the DIVINE NINE would tell you the same also. I'm sorry if that's not to your liking. So now you know why we have this website, now you know what questions to ask. The expression that "no question is a stupid question", is not true. I'm saying you but a lot of interested people have come up in here and ask for information that they know they're not suppose to be asking. That's my opinion."...
**
07-18-2000, 09:12 PM
2000, 09:12 PM
Rain Man
..."(Originally posted by NUPE4LIFE)
"...someone asked me...what our call was. THAT'S HIGHLY INAPPROPRIATE!"
....I am not disputing that, matter of fact I do know about the culture, norms, and mores of BGLO, having pledged in a quasi-BGLO atmosphere. After eight years, I should know something about discretion.
Seriously, N4L, I don't think the issue here is so much whether or not a certain question on Greek Life is deemed appropriate for discussion so much as I see BGLO members questioning the motive for why it is being asked.
Ex. Someone asks you why you are called Nupes.
Is the motive:
Because they hear you shout it in your chants and calls and see it on your 'nalia and is just pure curious to know what "the deal" is?
Or is it because they got blackballed after trying to join a chapter and to be vindictive, they need some "inside info" to perp the fraternity.
I remember as a 1st semester freshman, I asked a Kappa what was a Phi Nu Pi. He quietly said, "Long story." End of discussion. I never asked again. I got the message. What do you think kind of impression he would leave me about his organization if he responded by giving me a beatdown? He knew my motive was not to perp, so he just responded quietly.
Since you don't know the motive, don't be quick to attack.
WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO GOOD OLD FASHIONED TACT?!
I guess I am saying to BGLOs, if you must respond, please be tactful, not hostile and defensive. You don't know what the true motive of a person asking is, so just give a response, that while they won't know anything more about your org they could otherwise research about, they will know more OF the basic topic of the question asked."
-snip-
"your 'nalia" – paraphernalia [clothing and other items that have the organization’s colors or symbol.
"perp" – perpetrate [pretend to be something you are not]
**
http://www.greekchat.com/gcforums/showthread.php?t=437&page=3
Kymberleigh
Location: Bourbonnais Il. 60914
"Okay, so I've been reading this thread, and one thing bothers me. When ManndingoNupe made the comment that a particular question about his call was wrong. First of all there are people on this board who are Greek, and wouldn't know that asking a question like that was disrespectful. I belong to an NPC sorority and we don't have calls. So, if I had seen that or read about that somewhere I would assume it would be okay to post something here, and get a reply.
In NO way would I be trying to offend you. I would be attempting to enlighten myself. I have read so many posts where BGLO members are appreciative of the insight they receive from GLO's. So, If I wanted to know something about a BGLO I would probably post it here. If that info. was privy, then a polite response, not that of anger, would suffice.
I love this board for one main reason I learn so much about things I never knew."
****
This concludes Part I of this pancocojams series on Black Fraternity & Sorority calls.
Thank you for visiting pancocojams.
Visitor comments are welcome.
Friday, November 9, 2012
Cane Performances In Black Fraternities & Sororities (Videos)
Edited by Azizi Powell
This is Part III of a three part pancocojams series on the use of wooden canes (kanes)* in the performing arts traditions of historically Black Greek lettered fraternities & sororities.
*"Kanes" is the spelling that Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. uses for the word "canes".
This post showcases selected videos of cane performances by members of certain historically Black Greek fraternities & sororities.
Specifically, this post showcases two videos each of cane performances by members of two historically Black Greek lettered fraternities -in alphabetical order, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.(Kappas) and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. (Sigmas), and one Black Greek lettered sorority - Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. (SRGrho).
Part I & Part II presents selected comments about the origin, history, and contemporary performances with canes in certain historically Black Greek lettered fraternities and sororities.
For Part I of this series, click http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2012/11/cane-kane-performances-in-black.html.
For Part II of this series, click http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2012/11/cane-kane-performances-in-black_9.html.
The content of this post is presented for historical, folkloric, entertainment, and aesthetic purposes.
All copyrights remain with their owners.
****
Part III: FEATURED VIDEOS
These videos are posted in alphabetical order, according to the first letter of the organization.
Example #1
Kappa Alpha Psi at VCU Fall Block 2012 Eta Xi Chapter
EtaXiDreamTeam, Published on Oct 28, 2012
VCU Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi at FallBlock 2012 StepShow. Follow @EtaXiNupes...
-snip-
Hat tip to Trashun Floure who sent me a link to this video and in so doing, motivated me to publish this series on cane performances in historically Black Greek lettered fraternities & sororities.
****
Example #2:
Kappa Alpha Psi Centennial Kane work 2.wmv
freezezone1, Uploaded on Jul 14, 2011
One of my videos from the Kappa 100th Year Celebration. Congratulations and Indy Luv from this Soror.
****
Example #3
Sprite Step Off 2011 - SIGMA GAMMA RHO Sorority, OB Chapter, Chicago
nstant1,Uploaded on May 2, 2011
Sprite Step Off 2011 - SIGMA GAMMA RHO Sorority, Chicago
Omicron Beta Chapter
University of Illinois Chicago
****
Example #4
Sigma Gamma Rho Step & use Canes--Theta Upsilon Chapter
apRHOL1922, Uploaded on Aug 22, 2011
University of South Florida SGRhos @ their Summer picnic and showcase
-snip-
cane routine - 1:43-2:20
strolling: 2:21 to the remainder of the video
****
Example #5:
Phi Beta Sigma 2012 Atlanta Greek picnic step show
AtlantaGreekPicnic, Published on Jun 17, 2012
Phi Beta Sigma 2012 Atlanta Greek Picnic $10,000 step show sponsored by http://www.Statefarm.com & http://twitter.com/Tiwaworks
****
Example #6:
Phi Beta Sigma- Cane Work
madavis1987, Uploaded on Jul 17, 2010
GOMAB!
FALL 2K9- 4 PILLARS OF THE BLUE DYNASTY
ACE CLUB ~ Sentinel
****
EDITOR'S NOTE
I wonder if any research has been done on the influence of parade style baton & rifle twirling on aspects of fraternity & sorority cane performances. It seems to me that such a connection can be credibly made.
****
OTHER RELATED LINKS
Click http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2012/11/princess-rachel-yisa-five-nigerian.html (video #2 and video #5 that show African men dancing with a stick or a tool that I believe is s short garden hoe. However, by no means does this mean that the cane (kane) performance activity done by historically Black Greek lettered organizations originated from traditional African dances.
**
RELATED LINK
Click this post on my zumalayah blog for information about & videos of the Egyptian folk art of cane fighting & cane dancing:
http://zumalayah.blogspot.com/2013/04/five-videos-of-egyptian-saidi-stick.html.
This link is given to show the antiquity of cane dance performances. This link is also given to show the similarities between some of these movements and those done by historically Black Greek lettered organizations. However, I'm not indicating that Egyptian cane fighting/dancing was the source of or influenced the use of cane (kane) in historically Black Greek lettered fraternities and sororities.
****
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT AND THANKS
Thanks to all those who have quoted in this post. And thanks to the positive history & role modeling, and the performance arts legacy of all Black Greek lettered organizations.
Finally, thank you for visiting pancocojams.
Visitor comments are welcome.
This is Part III of a three part pancocojams series on the use of wooden canes (kanes)* in the performing arts traditions of historically Black Greek lettered fraternities & sororities.
*"Kanes" is the spelling that Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. uses for the word "canes".
This post showcases selected videos of cane performances by members of certain historically Black Greek fraternities & sororities.
Specifically, this post showcases two videos each of cane performances by members of two historically Black Greek lettered fraternities -in alphabetical order, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.(Kappas) and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. (Sigmas), and one Black Greek lettered sorority - Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. (SRGrho).
Part I & Part II presents selected comments about the origin, history, and contemporary performances with canes in certain historically Black Greek lettered fraternities and sororities.
For Part I of this series, click http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2012/11/cane-kane-performances-in-black.html.
For Part II of this series, click http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2012/11/cane-kane-performances-in-black_9.html.
The content of this post is presented for historical, folkloric, entertainment, and aesthetic purposes.
All copyrights remain with their owners.
****
Part III: FEATURED VIDEOS
These videos are posted in alphabetical order, according to the first letter of the organization.
Example #1
Kappa Alpha Psi at VCU Fall Block 2012 Eta Xi Chapter
EtaXiDreamTeam, Published on Oct 28, 2012
VCU Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi at FallBlock 2012 StepShow. Follow @EtaXiNupes...
-snip-
Hat tip to Trashun Floure who sent me a link to this video and in so doing, motivated me to publish this series on cane performances in historically Black Greek lettered fraternities & sororities.
****
Example #2:
Kappa Alpha Psi Centennial Kane work 2.wmv
freezezone1, Uploaded on Jul 14, 2011
One of my videos from the Kappa 100th Year Celebration. Congratulations and Indy Luv from this Soror.
****
Example #3
Sprite Step Off 2011 - SIGMA GAMMA RHO Sorority, OB Chapter, Chicago
nstant1,Uploaded on May 2, 2011
Sprite Step Off 2011 - SIGMA GAMMA RHO Sorority, Chicago
Omicron Beta Chapter
University of Illinois Chicago
****
Example #4
Sigma Gamma Rho Step & use Canes--Theta Upsilon Chapter
apRHOL1922, Uploaded on Aug 22, 2011
University of South Florida SGRhos @ their Summer picnic and showcase
-snip-
cane routine - 1:43-2:20
strolling: 2:21 to the remainder of the video
****
Example #5:
Phi Beta Sigma 2012 Atlanta Greek picnic step show
AtlantaGreekPicnic, Published on Jun 17, 2012
Phi Beta Sigma 2012 Atlanta Greek Picnic $10,000 step show sponsored by http://www.Statefarm.com & http://twitter.com/Tiwaworks
****
Example #6:
Phi Beta Sigma- Cane Work
madavis1987, Uploaded on Jul 17, 2010
GOMAB!
FALL 2K9- 4 PILLARS OF THE BLUE DYNASTY
ACE CLUB ~ Sentinel
****
EDITOR'S NOTE
I wonder if any research has been done on the influence of parade style baton & rifle twirling on aspects of fraternity & sorority cane performances. It seems to me that such a connection can be credibly made.
****
OTHER RELATED LINKS
Click http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2012/11/princess-rachel-yisa-five-nigerian.html (video #2 and video #5 that show African men dancing with a stick or a tool that I believe is s short garden hoe. However, by no means does this mean that the cane (kane) performance activity done by historically Black Greek lettered organizations originated from traditional African dances.
**
RELATED LINK
Click this post on my zumalayah blog for information about & videos of the Egyptian folk art of cane fighting & cane dancing:
http://zumalayah.blogspot.com/2013/04/five-videos-of-egyptian-saidi-stick.html.
This link is given to show the antiquity of cane dance performances. This link is also given to show the similarities between some of these movements and those done by historically Black Greek lettered organizations. However, I'm not indicating that Egyptian cane fighting/dancing was the source of or influenced the use of cane (kane) in historically Black Greek lettered fraternities and sororities.
****
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT AND THANKS
Thanks to all those who have quoted in this post. And thanks to the positive history & role modeling, and the performance arts legacy of all Black Greek lettered organizations.
Finally, thank you for visiting pancocojams.
Visitor comments are welcome.
Cane (Kane) Performances In Black Fraternities & Sororities (Part 1) original post
Edited by Azizi Powell
Latest Revision -March 11, 2024
This is Part I of a three part pancocojams series on the use of wooden canes (kanes)* in the performing arts traditions of historically Black Greek lettered fraternities & sororities.
*"Kanes" is the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. spelling for the word "canes".
Part I & Part II of this series presents selected comments from a Greekchat.com discussion thread about the origin, history, and contemporary performances with canes in historically Black Greek lettered fraternities and sororities.
Part III showcases selected videos of two historically Black Greek lettered fraternities and one historically Black Greek lettered sorority. In alphabetical order, those organizations are Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.(Kappas), Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. (Sigmas), and Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. (SRGrho).
That post doesn't include examples of some other historically Black Greek letter sororities who may occasionally step with canes. Note that all tapping and/or twirling canes or staffs isn't a part of stepping in every BGLO.
Click http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2012/11/cane-kane-performances-in-black_9.html for Part II of this series.
Click http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2012/11/cane-performances-in-black-fraternities.html for Part III of this series.
The content of this post is presented for historical, folkloric, and cultural purposes.
Thanks to all those who are quoted in this post.
****
Part I
SELECTED COMMENTS FROM A GREEKCHAT DISCUSSION THREAD ABOUT THE HISTORY & CURRENT PRACTICES OF CANE PERFORMANCES IN BLACK FRATERNITIES & SORORITIES
The majority of these comments are from a Greekchat forum which included members of various historically Black fraternities & sororities.
These comments are posted in chronological order with the earliest comments posted first. For the sake of this series, these comments have been assigned a consecutive number, starting with Post I and continuing in Post II.
These numbers aren't the same as the numbers given in that Greekchat.com discussion thread-
****
From http://www.greekchat.com/gcforums/showthread.php?t=15583 "the deal with the canes..."
Comment #1, arRHOgance4, 3-04-2002
Comment #8, rhapsody1922, 03-08-2002
Location - Missouri---it's a midwest thang!
http://www.greekchat.com/gcforums/showthread.php?t=15583&page=2
Latest Revision -March 11, 2024
This is Part I of a three part pancocojams series on the use of wooden canes (kanes)* in the performing arts traditions of historically Black Greek lettered fraternities & sororities.
*"Kanes" is the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. spelling for the word "canes".
Part I & Part II of this series presents selected comments from a Greekchat.com discussion thread about the origin, history, and contemporary performances with canes in historically Black Greek lettered fraternities and sororities.
Part III showcases selected videos of two historically Black Greek lettered fraternities and one historically Black Greek lettered sorority. In alphabetical order, those organizations are Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.(Kappas), Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. (Sigmas), and Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. (SRGrho).
That post doesn't include examples of some other historically Black Greek letter sororities who may occasionally step with canes. Note that all tapping and/or twirling canes or staffs isn't a part of stepping in every BGLO.
Click http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2012/11/cane-kane-performances-in-black_9.html for Part II of this series.
Click http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2012/11/cane-performances-in-black-fraternities.html for Part III of this series.
The content of this post is presented for historical, folkloric, and cultural purposes.
Thanks to all those who are quoted in this post.
****
Part I
SELECTED COMMENTS FROM A GREEKCHAT DISCUSSION THREAD ABOUT THE HISTORY & CURRENT PRACTICES OF CANE PERFORMANCES IN BLACK FRATERNITIES & SORORITIES
The majority of these comments are from a Greekchat forum which included members of various historically Black fraternities & sororities.
These comments are posted in chronological order with the earliest comments posted first. For the sake of this series, these comments have been assigned a consecutive number, starting with Post I and continuing in Post II.
These numbers aren't the same as the numbers given in that Greekchat.com discussion thread-
****
From http://www.greekchat.com/gcforums/showthread.php?t=15583 "the deal with the canes..."
Comment #1, arRHOgance4, 3-04-2002
ok...my question to you gentlemen.
How do you feel about other orgs using canes?
Do you feel offended by it or what?
I pose this because...my guy is a nupe. When i was practicing with my sorors at a neighboring school for a stepshow, they said we had one part where we use canes.
So anyways, he was up in arms about the fact we were using
them and was talkin mad sh*t. So what makes it that no other org should use
them? I was taught that the men of KAPsi taught the ladies of SGRho to step
with canes back in the day in Indiana. I do not mean we should be bopping,
twirling, and the whole nine yards, but we use them for beat. We could have
just as well used sticks...but canes are usually easier to find. Anyways, some
responses would be apprieciated...
**
Comment #2: SweetestDiva, 3-04-2002
Location: What you know about them Texas girls?? :)
"I've been to three stepshows in the past month and I think
I've seen just about every org. using canes. Besides Kappas, I'd seen SGRhos
and Sigmas use them, but never anybody else. At a show I was at last weekend,
sorors came onstage in pink jumpsuits and started twirling green canes.. my
mouth was wide open. It was just something I'd never seen before."
**
Comment #3:DoggyStyle82, 3-06-2002
"You aint neva eva seen a Que twirling no cane, nor will you ever. Cane twirling belongs to Kappas. No one else should ever pick up a cane in a stepshow, especially Sigmas. Do your own stuff. As many old school Kappas as I know, none of them have ever stated that Kappas taught SGRhos to step with canes. Having worked with a Kappa Provincial officer (Spr '83), the whole Indiana Love thing is a recent (post 90's) phenomenon and Kappas would not have been teacher their art to any sorority."
**
Comment #4-SweetestDiva, 3-07-2002
Location: What you know about them Texas girls?? :)
"No, I never saw Omegas with canes. I'd never seen my sorors with canes either though, nor did I expect to. But sure enough, there they were. I'd heard the same thing as DivineZeta, so I never thought much of Sigmas using them. I really don't have an opinion one way or the other, probably because the cane has no significance to me. Which is the argument some would make as to why a person with that perspective shouldn't be stepping with one, I'm sure. That's understandable... I never gave the issue much thought until now and I'm interested to see how Kappas feel about the subject.
Four of my friends share an apartment. Two are Kappas and they share a room. I think there's a total of about 4 to 5 canes up on the wall and they fall every oh.... 10 minutes or so. But the number one house rule is that you don't touch the canes. Doesn't matter if they fall off the wall, fall on the floor, fall on YOU, whatever. 
One of my LS's made the mistake of reaching to pick one up off the floor... everbody that visits regularly was like.... "NOOOOOO!!!!" 
I've learned in the greek world that what's ordinary to you can be very significant to another org... so it's just important to be respectful. Sorry for getting so off topic."
**
Comment #5: sphinxpoet, 03-08-2002
"And the Kappas have yet to say anything.......I find that
interesting but my Kappa sands always says "If people wanted to step with
Canes you should have pledged Kappa"
**
Comment #6: sphinxpoet, 03-08-2002
"And the Kappas have yet to say anything.......I find that interesting but my Kappa sands always says "If people wanted to step with Canes you should have pledged Kappa" "
**
Comment #7: CrimsonTide4, 03-08-2002
"Probably because GC is DEVOID, WITHOUT, MINUS any active,
regular KAPPAS."
Comment #8, rhapsody1922, 03-08-2002
Location - Missouri---it's a midwest thang!
"I'm new to this, so I hope I'm doing this right. First off I'd like to say that I too have heard that PBS is the orginator of not only cane stepping, but stepping in general. But if it were not true, it's very rude to say that "especially Sigma's" should not be picking up a cane!
I'm a SGRho I have always known my sorors to step w/ canes! We have the same respect for our canes as Kappas. Soror, sorry I have never heard that the Kappa's taught us how to use them in Indy. 
Furthermore, DoggyStyle it is irrelivant to talk about Indy Luv, b/c that has nothing to do w/ them teaching cane steps. And how would you know what a Kappa would teach? You're not one.
Anyway, I have seen PBS, Kappas, Zetas, Detas, AKAs, and SGRho's all step w/ canes here in the midwest. I understand the feeling of the Kappas. However, it's not like anyone has taken their style. Whether they have a right to be upset, that is something that can not be addressed because no one can control their feelings and people vary. I'm not anal when it comes to someone touching my cane or my letters like some of my sorors. But I do expect RESPECT for organization, meaning as long as they aren't using my cane or wearing my letters I'm cool. 
However a person wants respect shown is different, and I understand everyone's rational is significant to them.
I will say numerous SGRho chapters step with canes, and all I can say is sorors keep on stepping! It's not gonna stop now! Just as long as nobody is stealing someone else's moves, it's all good! Now that's another topic, "Greeks that steal other organizations steps."
Rhapsody in Blue
#3-Fall 1997
Blue and Gold Rules Everything Around Me!
EEEEEEEEEEEE-YIP!!!!!!!!!!!"
**
Furthermore, DoggyStyle it is irrelivant to talk about Indy Luv, b/c that has nothing to do w/ them teaching cane steps. And how would you know what a Kappa would teach? You're not one.Anyway, I have seen PBS, Kappas, Zetas, Detas, AKAs, and SGRho's all step w/ canes here in the midwest. I understand the feeling of the Kappas. However, it's not like anyone has taken their style. Whether they have a right to be upset, that is something that can not be addressed because no one can control their feelings and people vary.
I'm not anal when it comes to someone touching my cane or my letters like some of my sorors. But I do expect RESPECT for organization, meaning as long as they aren't using my cane or wearing my letters I'm cool. However a person wants respect shown is different, and I understand everyone's rational is significant to them. I will say numerous SGRho chapters step with canes, and all I can say is sorors keep on stepping!
It's not gonna stop now! Just as long as nobody is stealing someone else's moves, it's all good! Now that's another topic, "Greeks that steal other organizations steps."Rhapsody in Blue
#3-Fall 1997
Blue and Gold Rules Everything Around Me!
EEEEEEEEEEEE-YIP!!!!!!!!!!!"
**
Comment #9: Tenacious1922, 03-10-2002
Location: Atlanta
"I have to say that when I was an undergrad, the Kappas on my campus worked with us when it came to using canes. So to say that Kappas would not teach SGRho or any other group how to work a cane...is way too general of a statement to make. We appreciated their help and I know they did not mind showing us a few cane steps. They knew we were not trying to claim it as our own, but it was taught to us that SGRho's were the first sorority to really start using canes, in honor of Kappa. My chapter was founded in "87", and my sorors were using canes then, so it is not just an "Indiana Love Thang", And I as well have seen alot of groups use canes or the smaller sticks (sorry...I do not know the proper name). But I have also heard that Sigmas were the first to step with canes as well. So...I guess you could go back and forth on that issue forever. (I do have to give props to those who can step with the canes, because it is not easy! But I can also understand if the Kappas feel as if no-one should use the canes, because it does seems as if we all have borrowed moves, steps, ideas from other orgs., to the point where you have no idea who really started what."
**
Comment #10: Anakin1911, 03-12-2002
Location: Kansas City, MO
"This is all very amusing. First of all, the "Kane" has a different level of signifiance for Nupes. It is not just something that used as a prop in stepshows. And yes, as a Nupe I have seen other organizations use canes at shows and yes, I have heard that other organizations used canes before it became synonymous with members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. However, the kane has special significance for us because of what it stands for, so while other groups may appear with them, they are in no way the same "kanes" that Nupes hold dear.
And not to diminish the topic or the replies because the question is an interesting one, but perhaps the Nupes have not replied because this matter has been a trivial one to us for some time. I only decided to add my "two cents" as a point of clarification."
-snip-
A number of commenters wrote that no member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. had participated in this discussion about other Black Greek letter organizations stepping with kanes (canes).
****Location: Atlanta
"I have to say that when I was an undergrad, the Kappas on my campus worked with us when it came to using canes. So to say that Kappas would not teach SGRho or any other group how to work a cane...is way too general of a statement to make. We appreciated their help and I know they did not mind showing us a few cane steps. They knew we were not trying to claim it as our own, but it was taught to us that SGRho's were the first sorority to really start using canes, in honor of Kappa. My chapter was founded in "87", and my sorors were using canes then, so it is not just an "Indiana Love Thang", And I as well have seen alot of groups use canes or the smaller sticks (sorry...I do not know the proper name). But I have also heard that Sigmas were the first to step with canes as well. So...I guess you could go back and forth on that issue forever. (I do have to give props to those who can step with the canes, because it is not easy! But I can also understand if the Kappas feel as if no-one should use the canes, because it does seems as if we all have borrowed moves, steps, ideas from other orgs., to the point where you have no idea who really started what."
**
Comment #10: Anakin1911, 03-12-2002
Location: Kansas City, MO
"This is all very amusing. First of all, the "Kane" has a different level of signifiance for Nupes. It is not just something that used as a prop in stepshows. And yes, as a Nupe I have seen other organizations use canes at shows and yes, I have heard that other organizations used canes before it became synonymous with members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. However, the kane has special significance for us because of what it stands for, so while other groups may appear with them, they are in no way the same "kanes" that Nupes hold dear.
And not to diminish the topic or the replies because the question is an interesting one, but perhaps the Nupes have not replied because this matter has been a trivial one to us for some time. I only decided to add my "two cents" as a point of clarification."
-snip-
A number of commenters wrote that no member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. had participated in this discussion about other Black Greek letter organizations stepping with kanes (canes).
http://www.greekchat.com/gcforums/showthread.php?t=15583&page=2
Comment #11: rhapsody1922, 03-13-2002
Location: Missouri---it's a midwest thang!
"Re: Re: The Kane issue
Quote:
Originally posted by DoggyStyle82
Thanks for your info. There is a lot of mis-information out
there. Much of it due to the internet. As someone who has spent my greek life
with real members at various yards in various geographical areas, I know the
answers to your questions.
The Sigmas did not invent stepping
The cane (only Kappas can claim "kane") is not a
traditional part of Sigma stepping.
The Sigma pledgees at one time, transitioned from Crescents
to Dogs during "Hell Week", but have neva, eva had a
"dogmatic" image.
"Hopping" is not native to Sigmas. Its just
something else that they have tried to appropriate and try to claim as their
own.
The Sigmas have liberally borrowed distinctions from other
orgs in an attempt to enhance theirs.
Thats why "kanes" belong to the Nupes. It's their distinguishing characteristic. The Ques have a distinctive image, but now Sigmas strip and get freaky at the step shows, try some "hops", and try to be hard. They tried to do an Omega step at the Philly Greek one year and got wrecked.
Plain and simple, do what you do and stick to it. Leave other peoples "stuff" alone. Why be insecure in who you are and what you do (unless it doesn't work for you).
P.S. This doesn't apply to SGRho if that is a part of your history."
"What do you mean "doesn't apply to SGRho if that is part of your history?" Didn't understand the statement."
****
Comment #12: DoggyStyle 82, 03-14-2002
"
**
Comment #13: DoggyStyle82, 03-14-2002
Comment #13: DoggyStyle82, 03-14-2002
Originally posted by rhapsody1922
"What do you mean "doesn't apply to SGRho if that is part of your history?" Didn't understand the statement."
Sorry. I don't know where SGRho's history with the cane came from nor how long its been part of your history. I see a lot of them perform with them and some without. I say that I don't know because I never saw many SGRhos until the mid -90's. None of the 70's or 80's Nupes that I know never mentioned a relationship with SGRho or about teaching them the art of "kaning". If the cane is part of your history, I'll take your word for it. It definitely could be the case in the midwest and I'll take a SGRho's word on that before I trust my limited observation of your org."
**
Comment #14:
DoggyStyle82: 03-14-2002
Quote: Texas_Dove Texas
"For anyone interested in learning more about Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. involvement with canes, stepping etc...please check out http://www.sigmahistory.cjb.net. [Pancocojams Editor's note: This website is no longer active as of March 11, 2024.]
"What do you mean "doesn't apply to SGRho if that is part of your history?" Didn't understand the statement."
Sorry. I don't know where SGRho's history with the cane came from nor how long its been part of your history. I see a lot of them perform with them and some without. I say that I don't know because I never saw many SGRhos until the mid -90's. None of the 70's or 80's Nupes that I know never mentioned a relationship with SGRho or about teaching them the art of "kaning". If the cane is part of your history, I'll take your word for it. It definitely could be the case in the midwest and I'll take a SGRho's word on that before I trust my limited observation of your org."
**
Comment #14:
DoggyStyle82: 03-14-2002
Quote: Texas_Dove Texas
"For anyone interested in learning more about Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. involvement with canes, stepping etc...please check out http://www.sigmahistory.cjb.net. [Pancocojams Editor's note: This website is no longer active as of March 11, 2024.]
I think this website goes a long way in clearing up "misconceptions" about Sigma.
To DoggyStyle82: I understand your position on these matters (I don't agree, but understand your position) and look forward to "chatting" with you in the future.
Thanks for the info. Very interesting and informative. Knowledge beats supposition any day. The old pics with the canes was proof enough so I must acquiesce on that being in their tradition. It must be regional because it is not universal as with the Kappas."
**
Comment #15: Bobby Earl, 03-19-2002
Comment #15: Bobby Earl, 03-19-2002
Location: baton rouge
..."I am sure that some where down the line, some organizations have bitten the styles of other organizations. Nevertheless, we all have a unique style that is "Often imitated but never duplicated." I don't care how many organizations started with, used, or incorporated a kane into their history."
"NOBODY KNOWS ABOUT KANE like a NUPE (notice I didn't say Kappa) KNOWS ABOUT KANE ... and I'm not just talking about founders either.
You can twirl it, flip it, roll it, catch it and even hook it.
But until you get in the KUT , you don't know anything about it!'
THAT IS THE DEAL WITH THE KANES.
****
http://www.greekchat.com/gcforums/showthread.php?t=15583&page=3
Comment #16: carmelafox, 08-18-2002
Location: Austin, Texas
"Alphas with canes! That would be some ridiculous stuff to see. I've seen sigmas, sgrhos, AKAs, and even my sorors (DST) use canes so I don't think it should be a big issue. Although the cane is most associated with them men of Kappa Alpha Psi, so it doesn't suprise me that some Kappas may find it offensive to see other organizations use it for show. By the way, the day I see a Que or Alpha pick up a cane is the day pigs fly!"
**
Comment #17: agent112, 11-19-2002
Location: Colorado
“The truth is....
If some of you greeks stop looking at your fraternal history from the last 3 lines and look deep into the past, you will find that members of each and everyone of your organizations carried canes. In the past, canes were a representation of presitge, wealth, and respect. Canes were a symbol of honor and so, many, many men carried them within the BGLO's.Ques...oh, sorry...Omega men, Alpha's Kappa's and Sigma's. As far as the men of Kappa Alpha Psi goes...they carry it in remembrence of Paul W. Caine who died in 1922 due to an explosion at his business. So understand, to Kappa's, this kane is a connection, a remembrance, and a dedication to a fallen brother. Not mearly a piece of wood with electrical tape around it. To them, it really is sacred. That is why they are so close to it. The men of Phi Beta Sigma were not the first to carry canes, but they were the first to step with them in a rythmic way. You see, stepping is a hand me down of African dance and military drill and ceremony movements. Soldiers returning from the military incorporated these drill movements into what has evolved as modern day stepping. The men of Phi Beta & KAY first used the "walking" version of the cane while the men of KAY eventualy cut the cane and used the shortened version to "twirl" with. And understand this, twirling is very new in comparision of how old the fraternity really is. Twirling became associated with KAY because they "perfected" it if you will. Phi Beta Sigma didn't twirl, they beat the canes on the ground to a rythm, the passed the canes in a ripple fashion, they tossed the canes through the air, but they didn't twirl until after KAY popularized it. Alpha's and Que's abandoned the cane once it became "commercialized" by Phi Beta and KAY. So they embloyed other methods of individualization. And so, to this day, Kappa's and Sigma's carry canes. But for very different reasons.
Like I said, your history runs much deeper then the few ol' heads you see comming back for homecoming. Set yourself on a quest for truth and search. You will be surprised at what you will find.
Once again...Prince Hall Masons lead from the front."
**
Comment #18: DoggyStyle82, 11-20-2002
"Dude, I don't know what the heck you are spouting, but da Ques aint never step with canes. No if, ands, or buts. And the cane was not universal among Sigmas as it was with the Kappas. I'm glad that I know my history from real brothers and not was is past through the net as fact."
**
Comment #19: agent112, 11-21-2002
Location: Colorado
"Listen up hero, you kats have got to read and stop filling in words. We all know Ques didn't step with canes. No one said that. Read highspeed!!! Men, prominent men, members of the organization, great men carried walking canes. Not because they were hurt, not because they had a limp, because it was a symbol of prestige. It was all symbolism hero. Thats how it started young blood. The same way these young chumps run out to get 5 time zone watches and what not. To symbolize that they have advanced from one level to another. Look at you, all bent out of shape because you failed to pay attention to detail. No disrespect intended young man. Just pay closer attention to detail next time."
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This concludes Part I of this three part series.
Thank you for visiting pancocojams.
Visitor comments are welcome.
..."I am sure that some where down the line, some organizations have bitten the styles of other organizations. Nevertheless, we all have a unique style that is "Often imitated but never duplicated." I don't care how many organizations started with, used, or incorporated a kane into their history."
"NOBODY KNOWS ABOUT KANE like a NUPE (notice I didn't say Kappa) KNOWS ABOUT KANE ... and I'm not just talking about founders either.
You can twirl it, flip it, roll it, catch it and even hook it.
But until you get in the KUT , you don't know anything about it!'
THAT IS THE DEAL WITH THE KANES.
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http://www.greekchat.com/gcforums/showthread.php?t=15583&page=3
Comment #16: carmelafox, 08-18-2002
Location: Austin, Texas
"Alphas with canes! That would be some ridiculous stuff to see. I've seen sigmas, sgrhos, AKAs, and even my sorors (DST) use canes so I don't think it should be a big issue. Although the cane is most associated with them men of Kappa Alpha Psi, so it doesn't suprise me that some Kappas may find it offensive to see other organizations use it for show. By the way, the day I see a Que or Alpha pick up a cane is the day pigs fly!"
**
Comment #17: agent112, 11-19-2002
Location: Colorado
“The truth is....
If some of you greeks stop looking at your fraternal history from the last 3 lines and look deep into the past, you will find that members of each and everyone of your organizations carried canes. In the past, canes were a representation of presitge, wealth, and respect. Canes were a symbol of honor and so, many, many men carried them within the BGLO's.Ques...oh, sorry...Omega men, Alpha's Kappa's and Sigma's. As far as the men of Kappa Alpha Psi goes...they carry it in remembrence of Paul W. Caine who died in 1922 due to an explosion at his business. So understand, to Kappa's, this kane is a connection, a remembrance, and a dedication to a fallen brother. Not mearly a piece of wood with electrical tape around it. To them, it really is sacred. That is why they are so close to it. The men of Phi Beta Sigma were not the first to carry canes, but they were the first to step with them in a rythmic way. You see, stepping is a hand me down of African dance and military drill and ceremony movements. Soldiers returning from the military incorporated these drill movements into what has evolved as modern day stepping. The men of Phi Beta & KAY first used the "walking" version of the cane while the men of KAY eventualy cut the cane and used the shortened version to "twirl" with. And understand this, twirling is very new in comparision of how old the fraternity really is. Twirling became associated with KAY because they "perfected" it if you will. Phi Beta Sigma didn't twirl, they beat the canes on the ground to a rythm, the passed the canes in a ripple fashion, they tossed the canes through the air, but they didn't twirl until after KAY popularized it. Alpha's and Que's abandoned the cane once it became "commercialized" by Phi Beta and KAY. So they embloyed other methods of individualization. And so, to this day, Kappa's and Sigma's carry canes. But for very different reasons.
Like I said, your history runs much deeper then the few ol' heads you see comming back for homecoming. Set yourself on a quest for truth and search. You will be surprised at what you will find.
Once again...Prince Hall Masons lead from the front."
**
Comment #18: DoggyStyle82, 11-20-2002
"Dude, I don't know what the heck you are spouting, but da Ques aint never step with canes. No if, ands, or buts. And the cane was not universal among Sigmas as it was with the Kappas. I'm glad that I know my history from real brothers and not was is past through the net as fact."
**
Comment #19: agent112, 11-21-2002
Location: Colorado
"Listen up hero, you kats have got to read and stop filling in words. We all know Ques didn't step with canes. No one said that. Read highspeed!!! Men, prominent men, members of the organization, great men carried walking canes. Not because they were hurt, not because they had a limp, because it was a symbol of prestige. It was all symbolism hero. Thats how it started young blood. The same way these young chumps run out to get 5 time zone watches and what not. To symbolize that they have advanced from one level to another. Look at you, all bent out of shape because you failed to pay attention to detail. No disrespect intended young man. Just pay closer attention to detail next time."
****
This concludes Part I of this three part series.
Thank you for visiting pancocojams.
Visitor comments are welcome.
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
"We Are The Men Of Que Psi Phi" & "We Are The Brothers Que" (videos and text examples)
Edited by Azizi Powell
Latest revision - June 16, 2024
This pancocojams post showcases two YouTube video examples of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc chant "We Are The Brothers Of Que Psi Phi".
This post also includes text (word only) examples of this Omega Psi Phi Fraternity chant.
YouTube videos examples of this song are also included in this post.
The content of this post is presented for cultural, historical, and aesthetic purposes.
All copyrights remain with their owners.
Thanks to those who composed the featured chants. Thanks also to the members of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. who are featured in these videos and thanks to the producers of these videos.
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PANCOCOJAMS EDITOR'S NOTE
I consider fraternity & sorority chants to be cultural artifacts which deserve to be collected, preserved, and studied. However, I also believe that fraternity & sorority songs and chants should only be recited and/or performed by those who are members or pledges of the specific organization that is affiliated with that particular chant.
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GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT OMEGA PSI PHI FRATERNITY, INC.
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. is a historically Black Greek lettered fraternity that was founded on November 17, 1911 at Howard University.
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. is the first international fraternal organization founded on the campus of a historically Black college/university.
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. is a member of the National Pan-Hellenic Council, (NPHC). NPHC is a collaborative organization of nine historically African American, international Greek lettered fraternities and sororities that is known as "The Divine Nine".
Click http://www.oppf.org/about_omega.asp for more information about this historically Black Greek letter fraternity.
-snip-
"We Are The Men Of Que Psi Phi" is a historically Black fraternity song that has a similar call & response verse structure and similar or the same verses as the military cadence "Mama Mama Can't You See". For example" both compositions have a "I told my mother not to cry" verse. And the Omega verse: ""they shaved my hair...they even took my jeans/now I'm wearing kelly green" is almost like the verse "now I'm wearing army green".
However, the tunes used for the fraternity song and the military cadence are different and the tempo for "We Are The Men Of Que Psi Phi" is much slower than the military cadence (and the children's rhyme versions) of "Mama Mama Can't You See".
Click http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2012/02/mama-mama-cant-you-see-usmc-cadence.html for a pancocojams post on "Mama Mama Can't You See - USMC Cadence & Children's Handclap Rhyme"
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TEXT EXAMPLE OF "WE ARE THE BROTHERS OF QUE PSI PHI
(given here as Example #1)
[1995 Probates {pledges}, Howard University]
Refrain leader: Oh Oh Oh!
All: Oh Oh Oh!
Leader: Oh Oh Oh Oh!
All: Oh Oh Oh!
Leader: We are the brothers of Que Psi Phi
All: We are the brothers of Que Psi Phi
Leader: The Mother Pearl and that's no lie.
All: The Mother Pearl and that's no lie.
Leader: We're gonna live, we're gonna die
All: We're gonna live, we're gonna die
Leader: In the name of Que Psi Phi.
All: In the name of Que Psi Phi.
Leader: We've come from near we've come from far
Leader: first by lamp and then by star
All: first by lamp and then by star.
Refrain
Leader: In this place of pain and tears,
All: In this place of pain and tears,
Leader: I have learned to persevere.
All: I have learned to persevere.
Leader: Manhood and scholarship,
All: Manhood and scholarship,
Leader: and the meaning of uplift.
Leader: Cooper, Coleman, Love, and Just (varied rhythm)*
All: Cooper, Coleman, Love, and Just,
Leader: They are watching over us.
All: They are watching over us.
Refrain
Leader: I may not see my home again,
All: I'll wave good-bye to all my friends,
Leader: I'll tell my Mama not to cry,
All: I am pledging Que Psi Phi.
Refrain.
Leader: She said "Son along the way,
All: She said "Son along the way,
Leader: watch those cloudy skies of gray.
All: watch those cloudy skies of gray.
Leader: The sun is shining on the other side (ritardando)
All: The sun is shining on the other side
Leader; shining brightly Que Psi Phi"
All: shining brightly Que Psi Phi" (crescendo)
Refrain (resume previously tempo)
*These are the last names of the four founders of the fraternity
-Elizabeth Fine, Soulstepping-African American Step Shows (University of Illinois Press; 2003) pg. 48-49
Editor:
Here's a quote about that chant from Soulstepping-African American Step Shows
"With shaven heads and gold paint glistening on their faces, the 1995 probates of Omega Psi Phi at Howard University stand at rigid attention, holding across their chest shields decorated with the fraternity insignia. In combat boots, tan trousers, blue sweat shirts, sunglasses, the young men stand with their chins and lower lips thrust out, a ritual facial expression known as the grit."
In her landmark book on Black fraternity and sorority steppin,Soulstepping-African American Step Shows Elizabeth Fine described this song as being performed by "probates", meaning "new members of a fraternity or a sorority".
According to http://dos.cornell.edu/greek/about_our_office/definitions.cfm "Probate [is] A show used to introduce new members of the organization".
"Lamp” is a symbol for Que pledges; “Star” is a symbol for men who have passed the pledge process and become official members of the fraternity.
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TEXT EXAMPLE OF "WE ARE THE MEN OF Q PSI PHI" (Example #2)
We are the men of Q Psi Phi
Mighty Mighty Q Psi Phi
We come from near we come from far
First by lamp and then by star
Whoa oo Whoa oo*
Whoa oo oo oo oh
I kiss my girl and made her cry
Cause I was pledgin Q Psi Phi.
I kissed my girl and made her cry
Cause I was pledgin Q Psi Phi
Whoa oo Whoa oo
Whoa oo oo oo oh
-posted by Azizi, 12/05 (source: step shows that I've attended in the 1990s in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania)
*"Whoa oo Whoa oo" is also written as "woah oh woah oh".
-snip-
Text Analysis:
I believe that the implication of the lines "I kissed my girl and made her cry/cause I was pledgin Q Psi Phi" was that the girl cried because she knew that she'd have less time with her man now that he was pledging Q Psi Phi.
The line "I kissed my girl and made her cry" is lifted from the Mother Goose rhyme: "Georgie Porgy; Puddin Pie/ kiss the girls and made them cry". However, since Ques are known as real buff, macho men, the next lines for the Georgie Porgie rhyme "When the boys came out to play/ Georgie Porgie ran away" wouldn't fit the image of the Q's at all.
The "Whoa oo Whoa oo" part of this song sounds like the refrain used in the military cadence "Ain't No Use In Lookin Down"
"Leader-Woh oh oh oh
Others-(repeat above)/ Leader-Woh oh ohohohoh"
-snip-
*This is not to suggest that these that military cadence and that fraternity song have anything else in common or that one is derived from the other. It should be mentioned that those two examples have nothing else in common.
-snip-
[slightly revised August 18, 2016]
Notice that the words of Example #1 are written in a call & response format with the lead singing one line and the rest of the group repeating that line.
I recall this entire song (given as Example #2) being sung by one member of the step team who had an exceptional voice. The other members of the step team were divided into three sub-groups. One group at a time started a step move, and then continued that move while the second and then the third group joined in with those groups' own move.
I'd appreciate it if people would share their experiences and/or recollections of how "We Are The Men Of Que Psi Phi" is (or was) performed.
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SHOWCASE VIDEOS
Example #1: We Are The Brother Ques
Uploaded by Xay90 on Dec 12, 2010
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Example #2: Beta Eta Chapter of Omega Psi Phi - We Are The Brother Ques
Published on May 14, 2012 by Xay90
-snip-
Another example of "We Are The Men Of Que Psi Phi" is sung from the beginning of the probate video to 4:03 in that video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vhC5uzwOjTA Cheyney University Omega Psi Phi Fraternity INC. Probate Spring 2023, Bucketo, April 18, 2023
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COMMENTS ABOUT "GRITTIN"
{Additions and corrections are welcome.
I've never heard the term "the grit" before reading it in Elizabeth Fine's landmark book Elizabeth Fine, Soulstepping-African American Step Shows. However, I have heard of "grittin".
In my opinion, the term "grittin" comes from the word "gritty" and refers to a harsh "stone faced" expression. "Grittin" is a term that is used to describe the exaggerated, bulldog like angry expression that is a signature facial expression for members & pledges of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. (meaning it is usually not done by other fraternities). I think that Ques put on this facial expression to show how tough & in control they are.
In everyday interactions - outside of the performance of "steppin" or its related fraternity/sorority movement "strollin" - a person who sees someone with this expression looking at him* might confront that person and say "Why you grittin on me?" The person with that grittin expression then has to make some choices. He could change that facial expression and deny that he was "grittin" (on that other person). Or he could keep that same expression or make his facial expression even sterner and say something that would escalate the confrontation. In other words, "grittin" is no joke.
*Although the male pronoun is used in this comment, females also have been know to "grit on" other people.
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RELATED LINK
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Pan-Hellenic_Council
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