USC marching band named best in college football

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- For years, they've called themselves the greatest marching band in the history of the universe. Now, USA Today agrees, naming USC's marching band the best in college football.

"They work hard, but they have fun. I think that's the key," said Dr. Arthur C. Bartner, director of the USC Trojan Marching Band.

Bartner has directed the band for the last 45 years, and has developed plenty of Hollywood connections along the way.

"If you look at the body of work, we probably deserve this award!" Bartner said.

The band has played with Fleetwood Mac on the song "Tusk," Radiohead, OutKast, Hugh Jackman and has even been featured on the Super Bowl. They've been led by President Ronal Reagan, Snoop Dogg, Alex Trebek and Will Ferrell.

They've traveled to Dancing With The Stars, New York Times Square, Abbey Road in London, the Eiffel Tower in Paris and the Coliseum in Rome.

But it's the Coliseum in Exposition Park they call home.

"We refer to this as the Trojan Family and without a doubt, the football program and the band are synonymous with each other," USC Head Football Coach Steve Sarkisian said.

Band members practice 10 hours a week, not including games, but the students love it.

"The thrill I get from performing, definitely makes it worth it," said Jasmine Zhou, who plays clarinet.

"No doubt in my mind, this is one of the best things I've ever done," drum major Chris Reimann said.