In the NCAA Basketball Tournament — often referred to as March Madness — emotion is a part of the game. Recently, Virginia women’s basketball advanced to the Sweet Sixteen of their tournament, so University fans can cheer on the team as they continue their Cinderella run.
From a team’s fragile hope in entering the Tournament, to shocking upsets or disheartening losses, all teams and fans are in pursuit of the pure joy that comes from a big win. And, although Virginia men’s basketball has made their exit, there are still thrilling moments to be had in the remaining games of the men’s tournament as every team competes for the ultimate title. For those who remain invested in the Tournament’s outcome, whether or not they are related to the University, these songs embody every emotion that comes from the pursuit of basketball glory.
“Chelsea Dagger” by The Fratellis
This rock anthem brings the same high energy that surrounds a great win, with a repetitive chorus that sports venues around the world love to play during games. The resounding, energetic instrumentation is reminiscent of a roaring crowd, cheering on their team through a close game.
“I was bold,” the song admits, before throwing out a cheeky, “Let her dance with me just for the hell of it.” The song’s lyrics embody the playful spirit that emerges when two equally-matched teams come to play, with punchy cymbal hits and powerful chords building to a big finish as if they are the final buzzer. In those classic games, “Chelsea Dagger” is made for the victory lap.
“$0” by Cameron Winter
In contrast to the more upbeat moments of the tournament, this piano ballad captures the crushing disappointment of a loss. Winter’s minor chords are accompanied by emotional lyrics about the end of a relationship, which leaves him feeling like a “zero dollar man” — just as players may feel after a major loss.
The song focuses on the shock of the moment, with his lyrics, “I was staring at the water / I had one on my head between you and the water,” painting a similar image to a team distraught by their game’s outcome. In mourning the end of a team’s time in this Tournament, this song is the perfect choice for a cathartic listen.
“I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” by U2
This song brings a more bittersweet perspective to a team’s exit. “I have climbed highest mountains / I have run through the fields / Only to be with you,” the song begins, echoing the hard work every team puts in to make it into this tournament.
“But I still haven’t found what I’m looking for,” the chorus repeats, just as those losing teams were not able to secure the win they wanted. However, the song offers hope beyond that unfulfilled moment, saying, “I believe in a Kingdom Come … but yes, I’m still running.” Even though a loss in this tournament can be discouraging, this song may remind players that there will be another chance next year.
“You Get What You Give” by New Radicals
With its laid-back rhythm and inspiring lyrics, this indie hit sounds just like an unexpected upset. “Wake up kids, we got the dreamers’ disease,” the song proudly states, giving a voice to any lower-seeded team that came into the tournament with only a dream of winning.
The song’s rousing chorus of “Don’t let go / You’ve got the music in you” echoes the wishes of players and supporters as they hope their team can keep its lead and ultimately secure a win. In the case of any more “Cinderella stories” in this Tournament, this song is an ideal choice to commemorate the moment.
Unfortunately, Virginia men’s basketball already had its “$0” experience. But, when Virginia women’s basketball plays TCU Saturday, there is hope that “You Get What You Give” will provide the soundtrack to another unprecedented upset if the 10-seed Virginia team can beat out three-seed TCU.
Regardless, these songs offer a new way to celebrate the electric highs and emotional lows of this Tournament — all leading up to the Championship, when the winning team will celebrate their “One Shining Moment.”
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