Earlier this semester, the pledges of fraternities at Miami had an important task to undertake--serenading sororities. I'd have to say this was the most enjoyable part of my pledge process. Pledges had to express the musical sides of themselves, which was challenge since a number of us don’t have extensive backgrounds in musical performance or singing. As a group, the pledge class picks a few easily recognizable songs that girls would swoon over. Then, dressing up in suits and ties, they stand in front of a large group of sorority girls and exhibit what little musical talent they have. After doing a few of these serenades myself, it can be somewhat nerve racking standing and singing in front of a large group of college girls. However, with a healthy dose of confidence and breaking out the right dance moves, I learned how to be the delight and entertainment of dozens of laughing (and perhaps starstruck) college girls. Here’s some good things to keep in mind to help you master those serenades (or whenever you might sing in front of a group):
You suck at singing. The sororities know you’re not part of a glee club, so don’t worry about how good you sound as you belt out "I Want It That Way”. Maybe you’ll hit some notes and be in tune, but that’s just an added bonus.
Focus on stage presence. With all those feminine eyes gazing at you, act like you’ve been there before. Move around as you sing and own the space. It’s time to show that you know how to keep their attention. Be the Alpha male you know you can be.
Bring out your inner grooviness. Dance, loosen up your tie, take your blazer off, and get sexy. Now is your time to shine and show just how seductive your boy-band dance moves really can be. Show the girls that you could give Beyoncé some competition. Perhaps some lovely ladies might want your signature after a dazzling performance.
Realize you’re not alone. You’re up there with your brothers expressing your musical souls. Realize that all you guys are seizing the moment together. Be proud of how confident and good looking you all are before the ladies and let the music move you.
Just have fun. Everyone of you looks ridiculous, and that’s the whole point. Embrace and accept it. It’s all meant to create good memories as a pledge class grows together towards becoming fraternity brothers.
Who knows? Maybe doing sorority serenades will make you realize you could drop out of college and start a hit boy band. With all the videos and pictures taken by the sorority girls during the serenade performance, some record producer is bound to see it eventually. Then, someday when you’re living in your mansion after a successful music career, you’ll think back to how it all started with sorority serenades as a pledge during your college years .
