The Obertones

Oberlin's answer to the boy band: the Obertones are Oberlin's only all-male a cappella group.

History

Obertones circa 2000

The Obertones (also referred to as just "'Tones") have existed continuously since 1984. Their set features mainly pop/rock covers, with fairly regular side-trips into blues, hip-hop, jazz, funk, and more.

The Obertones put on concerts in Fairchild Chapel and always sing at the a cappella study break. They can also be seen around Oberlin at such events as Doctor Seuss Day, Relay for Life, Shabbat, All Roads Lead to Oberlin, and at commencement. The 'Tones have an annual spring break tour that takes them around the country and the world. Recent destinations include Eastern Europe (Winter Term '07), Chicago (Spring '07), California (Spring '08), and the greater New York City area (Spring '09)

The Obertones are not funded by the college, and support themselves by selling CDs, taking donations, and doing gigs.

Ed Helms (of The Daily Show with Jon Stewart) was a member of the Obertones, as was current musicology professor Charles McGuire.