Every Friday night during football season, the Friendswood High School band strikes up the familiar tune that gets the crowd on its feet. But few people know the actual story behind the school’s fight song. After extensive research, we found out.

The song comes from The Drum Major, a piece written in 1936 by J. Siebert Taylor, also credited as John S. Taylor. Originally an instrumental composition, it wasn’t created with football games in mind—but it would soon find a new life at Friendswood High.

In 1953, football coach Glenn Winn added lyrics to the tune, turning it into the spirited anthem students and alumni know today. Since then, it has been played at games, pep rallies, and school events, becoming a lasting symbol of Mustang pride.

Nearly 90 years after it was first composed, The Drum Major still carries the energy and spirit of Friendswood High School. It’s a reminder that some school traditions, like a great melody, only get stronger with time.

Photo credit: Friendswood ISD