The seed of IU Sing was planted in the 1920s when Hoagy Carmichael organized "Showdown," a musical-drama show held during commencement week as a final send-off for seniors. Prizes were awarded, making this the first musical-dramatic competition between housing units.

A few years later, in 1928, Professor George E. Schlafer continued in Carmichael's footsteps and organized a production called the "Hail to Old IU," which was an event surrounding commencement, inviting all in attendance to participate in a sing-along. We award and honor in Schlafer's name and it is given to the act which most exemplifies the "Spirit of IU Sing."

The first official IU Sing, sponsored by the YW and the YMCA, was held on the steps of the Old Student Building in 1932. This was the first competitive format of the event, and the first noted "University Sing", which involved campus housing units.

Nine years later, the show moved to the Auditorium and eventually, split into two nights as people from all over the state began to come to this campus event. The IU Student Foundation gained sole responsibility for IU Sing in 1979.

The spirited competition among residence halls, fraternities, and sororities gives students an opportunity to showcase their singing and dancing talents. Each of the more than 25 acts dedicates months to writing, producing, and choreographing a song and dance skit, complete with costumes, props, lights, and live music, which lasts a mere seven minutes! For two nights, a wonderful combination of talent and enthusiasm fills the Auditorium, shaking the rafters. The spirit of IU Sing comes alive!