GLEEFUL The Beelzebubs of Tufts University have enjoyed a little TV fame. 
COLLEGIATE a cappella is enjoying a moment — perhaps its biggest since the Yale Whiffenpoofs were founded in 1909. It may be fitting that this year’s ’Poofs, who have the longest tradition, were eliminated early on this season’s “Sing-Off,” the hit a cappella version of “American Idol.” The most popular a cappella belies tradition for pop stylings and beatbox percussion, and stardom is just a viral video away. A few hits:
Beelzebubs (Tufts University)
Known for their theatrical choreography, this whimsical group placed second in the first season of “Sing-Off” and won over producers from “Glee,” who asked them to rearrange Katy Perry’s “Teenage Dream” and provide backup vocals. The song shot to No. 1 on iTunes and, along with a Beelzebub cover of Train’s “Hey, Soul Sister,” was featured on the show in November.
Straight No Chaser (University of Indiana)
When a 1998 video of the group’s “12 Days of Christmas” was uploaded in 2004, the complex vocal arrangements caught the attention of Atlantic Records, which rounded up the alumni for a five-record deal. To date, the video has had more than 12 million views. Their latest album, “With a Twist,” was released last year. For collegiate purists, a group of current undergraduates performs under the same name.
Leading Tones (Ohio University)
During a serendipitous surfing of the Web, Ben Folds, the singer-songwriter and now “Sing-Off” judge, came across a YouTube clip of the Leading Tones performing his hit “Brick.” Inspired, he produced “Ben Folds Presents: University a Cappella,” a 2009 album of his tunes arranged and sung by college groups. The Leading Tones will open for Rockapella in concert this April.
Noteworthy (University of California, Berkeley)
Lady Gaga is a popular choice on the circuit. Noteworthy’s sendup of her “Poker Face,” complete with wacky dance moves, garnered more than three million views on YouTube in 10 months as well as an invitation to compete (unsuccessfully) on “America’s Got Talent” last summer. Noteworthy’s contribution to the scene: not just harmonies are important; put on a show.
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