In 1989, the John Philip Sousa Foundation awarded the prestigious Sudler Trophy to the University of Kansas Band.

The pregame program begins with the members of the band sprinting down the stairs of the northern bowl of Memorial Stadium.

The band is then joined by a group of the Rock Chalk Dancers, KU's dance team, for the historic "Sunflower Song" and accompanying sunflower-inspired drill.

The band then performs the National Anthem, “Crimson and the Blue” (the KU alma mater), and the Rock Chalk Chant.

They are also shorter, consisting of three songs or medleys, often featuring new hits from the previous year or well-known pop tunes.