[Hype Songs] A must-listen for athletes and sports lovers! A curated selection of tracks that boost motivation

R.Y.U.S.E.I.Sandaime Jē Sōru Burazāzu fromu Eguzairu Toraibu

Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS from EXILE TRIBE / “R.Y.U.S.E.I.” Music Video

According to Oricon and DAM, it ranked No.

1 in annual karaoke popularity for fiscal year 2015.

It also won the Grand Prize at the Japan Record Awards.

The “Running Man” is a dance that became an unprecedented hit, so I’m sure many of you are familiar with it.

At the time, perhaps due to the wave of the trend, many fans who felt it was a bit too “pumped-up” got left behind, but listening back now, it’s dance-pop that maintains a golden ratio where EDM and elements of Japanese pop are exquisitely and evenly blended.

Time has passed, but doesn’t it still get you hyped up, one way or another? It’s amazing—if you haven’t listened to it recently, give it another spin.

Theme of Lupin the ThirdŌno Yūji

Lupin the Third Theme ’78 – Yuji Ohno

The theme song of a hugely popular TV anime series composed by Yuji Ohno.

It’s a splendid fusion of jazz and pop.

Its lively rhythm and memorable melody lift listeners’ spirits and whisk them away from the everyday.

Since its release in January 1978, numerous versions have been produced and released on CD and vinyl in various arrangements.

It’s also beloved as a sports cheer song, giving courage and strength to athletes.

Easing pre-game nerves and stoking the drive to win, it’s the perfect track for anyone facing an important match.

School HeavenKoizumi Kyoko

"School Heaven" by Kyoko Koizumi

Packed with bittersweet memories from school days, this piece brims with a charm that sets listeners’ hearts racing.

Kyoko Koizumi’s vocals humorously portray classmates’ crushes and friendships, vividly coloring a page of youth.

Released in November 1989, the song peaked at No.

3 on the Oricon charts.

It was also featured in the 2001 film Waterboys, and has been loved by audiences across generations.

Listen to it before a game, and your team’s bond will strengthen while your fighting spirit surges.

Athletes gearing up for competition—why not fire yourselves up with this track?

Wind of VictoryBaba Toshihide

Victory Wind - Toshihide Baba

Songs that sing passionately of victory have the power to ignite an athlete’s spirit.

Released by Toshihide Baba in November 2009, this track gives listeners the courage to move toward realizing their dreams.

The lyrics convey the strength to face oneself and overcome hardships.

Its upbeat rhythm and moving melody ease pre-game nerves and guide you toward a positive mindset.

This piece is recommended not only for people who enjoy sports but also for those approaching a major turning point in life.

The more you listen, the more momentum you’ll feel to take on any challenge.

weedberii guddoman

Berry Goodman 'Weeds' Music Video

A powerful cheer song by Beverly Goodman that supports everyone’s challenges toward their life dreams and goals.

The refreshing melodies woven by the Osaka-born trio and the sound that fuses J-pop with hip-hop leave a strong impression.

Its message-rich lyrics, which celebrate the process of hard work, give courage to hearts on the verge of giving up.

Released in August 2022, the song was also chosen as the theme for Asahi Broadcasting Radio’s “ABC Fresh Up Baseball” and featured in the Virtual High School Baseball spot video for the 104th National High School Baseball Championship.

It’s a track that gently yet powerfully pushes forward not only those striving in baseball, but everyone fighting to carve out their own path.

It starts here!DREAMS COME TRUE

DREAMS COME TRUE “It Starts Here!”

An encouraging song by DREAMS COME TRUE that sings of life’s challenges and hopes through the lens of an ekiden relay race.

Its lively rhythm fuses ’80s disco with contemporary reggaeton, showcasing a cosmopolitan, borderless musicality.

Beyond cheering on the runners, it’s a powerful anthem that gives courage to anyone taking a new step forward.

Released in January 2025, the track was written as the theme song for an ekiden event commemorating the Osaka-Kansai Expo.

It has also been chosen as the theme song for the film “Kaminofude: The Island of Kaiju,” drawing significant attention.

It’s a perfect choice to stage a unifying finale for all participants during the exit scene of a school sports day.

Fleur de la PassionMISIA

Fleur de la Passion

A passionate song performed by MISIA cheers on athletes in their pursuits.

With a powerful voice that ignites the listener’s heart, she sings of the courage and hope needed to venture into the unknown.

The grand musical arrangement, embodying the spirit of the Olympics, and the moving lyrics are compelling.

Released digitally in July 2024 as the Nippon TV network’s 2024 Athlete Support Song, the track carries aspirations for the Paris Olympics, featuring outstanding performances by an orchestra of over 40 members and a gospel choir.

It’s perfect for pumping yourself up before a match or finding encouragement when you feel like giving up—give it a listen.