It seemed like every single UVA student and his mother was in attendance at the crowded 24th annual Rotunda Sing on Wednesday night. I mean, who doesn’t love some a cappella?
The Rotunda Sing is now being dubbed "Old Cabell Sing" because of its relocation to the steps of Old Cabell Hall in light of the Rotunda renovations. Despite flipping to the opposite side of the Lawn, UVA’s numerous a cappella groups succeeded to put on one of the most memorable events of the fall semester.
All fifteen a cappella groups performed two songs each. Here are some of the night’s most notable, standout song performances of the night:
Academical Village People (AVP): “Love Runs Out” by OneRepublic
Immediately after running on stage, the AVP men began humping the Old Cabell columns. Way to make an entrance, boys. That caused for a good laugh, along with their multi-colored Chubbies shorts and sassy frontline dancer in a fedora. But the best part of all was their “Love Runs Out” cover; it had everyone singing and dancing along with them.
The Virginia No-Tones: “Stay With Me” by Sam Smith
This new co-ed a cappella group started off the night with great entertainment. Although holding a note may not be their forte (hence the name “No-Tones”), the lead singers for “Stay With Me” were surprisingly talented. Everyone sitting around me remarked that if these people claim to be tone-deaf, then what does that make us?
Hoos in Treble (HIT): “Black Widow ” by Iggy Azalea ft. Rita Ora
If they aren’t already beautiful enough in their little black dresses, these girls’ voices will blow you away. HIT can literally hit notes that you didn’t even think existed. Plus, their percs undoubtedly know how to make a beat. One member even busted out rapping in the middle of “Black Widow,” yielding cheers from the audience.
New Dominions: “Chandelier” by Sia
This performance simply gave me goose bumps. The lead soloist for “Chandelier” employed her incredible pipes, and the background harmony was flawless. Overall, this larger, co-ed group showed a striking sense of unity with a fun, pop music side.
Virginia Gentlemen: “One Less Problem” by Ariana Grande ft. Iggy Azalea
Who knew that a male a cappella group could nail a female pop song? The Virginia Gentlemen stole the show with their cover of “One Less Problem,” managing to hit all the high notes. This was a clear audience favorite of the evening, not to mention their handsome bowties and rather attractive members. As one of the hosts cleverly remarked, “they got 99 problems, but a pitch ain’t one.”
Virginia Belles: “Bang Bang” by Jessie J., Ariana Grande, Nicki Minaj
The Virginia Belles certainly ended the night with a “bang!” These lovely ladies had everyone dancing to the a cappella beat with their cover of “Bang Bang.” The soloists were outstanding, and the energy was high. As for me, I cannot wait to attend one of their concerts this year to hear more.
Remix: “Killing Me Softly” by Lauryn Hill
After losing ten fourth years that graduated in the spring, Remix sure made up for its decreased size Wednesday night. Remix, the only hip-hop a cappella group on grounds, knows how to make an amazing beat. Their unique hip-hop rendition of “Killing Me Softly” had shivers going up my spine.
Silhooettes: “Grown Woman” by Beyoncé
I’m convinced that the Silhooettes are the next best thing to Beyoncé. The most award-winning female a cappella group on grounds proved they can definitely belt it with their cover of “Grown Woman.” These girls are incredible vocalists, sass queens, and should-be-models in their sparkly, sequined black tops. Work it, ladies.
Hullabahoos: “The Scientist” by Coldplay
You may recall them from their debut in Pitch Perfect. You might recollect their notorious robes. But you will definitely remember them after Wednesday night. The Hullabahoos slowed it down with their beautiful cover of “The Scientist.” These charming boys will continue to be one of UVA’s favorite a cappella groups.
Virginia Glee Club: “The Good Ole Song”
What’s better than an a cappella group leading thousands of UVA students in “The Good Ole Song” on the Lawn together? Not much else. Which is why this year’s Rotunda Sing will be one to remember.