The generics are the University of Maryland’s oldest and only all-guys a cappella group. Founded by Richard Hsu in 1987, the group has spent nearly four decades bringing music, humor, and brotherhood to the UMD community and beyond.

 

Since our founding, The generics have performed a wide range of music, from classic pop and rock to contemporary hits, all arranged in-house and performed entirely with our voices. Each semester, our members work together to create performances that are energetic, heartfelt, and uniquely our own.

 

At its core, The generics are more than a vocal ensemble. The group is built on friendship, creativity, and a shared love for music. Every member brings something different to the group, whether through arranging, soloing, beatboxing, leadership, social media, or simply the personality they bring into every rehearsal. Together, we create a sound and a spirit that reflects who we are as both musicians and friends.

 

Being a generic, or g, means becoming part of a legacy that stretches back to 1987. Generations of members have helped shape the group’s traditions, performances, and identity, creating a community that continues long after graduation. From late-night rehearsals to concerts, recordings, road trips, alumni events, and spontaneous moments of music, The generics offer an experience that is just as much about brotherhood as it is about singing.