Sacramento State Releases New Anthem “Stingers Up” to Foster School Spirit

The Origins of “Stingers Up”

Otis Amey, the director of player development for the Sac State football team, conceptualized the anthem after joining the university staff in January. Amey wanted a song that extended beyond football to represent the entire campus, including basketball, volleyball, soccer, and softball programs. He crafted the verses to highlight local identity, incorporating references to “the City of Trees” and the “916” area code. Amey played football for Sacramento State from 2000 to 2004 before playing professionally for the San Francisco 49ers and other teams. In his current staff role, he mentors student-athletes, organizing community service events such as feeding the homeless and visiting Shriners Hospital, alongside mock interviews and alumni networking.

Production and Collaborations

To bring the track to life, Amey collaborated with producer Kenny Agee and Mission Music, while “Macbizzy” handled the mixing. Amey provided the lyrical direction and general concept, while Mission Music and Agee developed the horn arrangements and overall sound bed. The resulting track features vocals from Mission Music alongside a cameo appearance by Kidathegoat, backed by upbeat rhythms intended for use at athletic stadiums and campus events.

Campus Reception and Student Reactions

The anthem drew mixed reactions from the student body regarding its tone and style. Emilio Garcia, a third-year electrical engineering major, praised the track’s rhythm, calling it “very sticky!” His peer and fellow third-year electrical engineering major, Cayden Granado, noted that the song emphasizes school spirit. Meanwhile, Allahni Taylor, a first-year health science major, found the anthem interesting and lighthearted, stating that it captured school pride while also making her giggle.