The Song Clan was one of the respected noble clans in the Hou Kingdom. The Ancestors have served in the Imperial Palace for generations, holding positions as ministers, and officers. They were already respected then because of such positions. But it was during General Song Jia's time when the clan really flourished.
He started as a soldier who was known for his heroic deeds separate from his responsibility to the Imperial army. Plenty of tales of heroism used him as inspiration. When he ascended in rank, all the way to being the General, his name became more popular, even overshadowing the princes of the Imperial palace. His strategies have always been reliable. That is why he garnered plenty of accolades.