Songs to Play Before a Match: Athlete-Approved Anthems and Pump-Up Tracks That Overflow with Power
At those crucial moments—like during daily practice or right before an important match—music stays by our side and gives us tremendous strength.
Many of you probably listen to your favorite songs to boost your spirits as you head into those special moments.
In this article, we’ve picked out uplifting, heart-stirring anthems that raise your motivation.
From upbeat tracks that fire up your fighting spirit, to relaxing numbers that wrap you in a sense of calm, to athletes’ personal favorites—we’ve gathered a wide variety of songs.
We hope you’ll find them helpful.
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[Songs to Listen to Before a Match] Loved by Athletes Too!? Energizing Anthems and Game-Day Tracks (71–80)
Cry BabyOfisharu Higedan Dism
Official HIGE DANDism is often associated with a gentle, refreshing image, but songs with a more masculine rock flavor like “Cry Baby” are part of their appeal, too.
When you know you’re going to lose or face a bad ending, everyone feels like giving up.
But this song sings about strength—the indomitable spirit to resist and rise again and again, even in those situations.
Let’s learn from this track an ultra-positive mindset that enjoys the pain so much that it almost feels pleasant!
Sugar Song and Bitter StepUNISON SQUARE GARDEN
This is UNISON SQUARE GARDEN’s 10th single, released in May 2015.
It was written as the ending theme for the anime Blood Blockade Battlefront.
It’s a very bright, mood-lifting song—great for boosting motivation—but just listening to vocalist Kosuke Saito’s slightly goofy, high-pitched voice and cheerful singing puts you in a really happy mood, so it might also be good to listen to before a match to help you relax!
superstarKetsumeishi
This song features a captivating blend of hip-hop and pop, filled with messages of positivity and encouragement.
It celebrates everyone’s innate talents and charms, emphasizing the importance of believing in one’s potential.
Released on November 4, 2020 as Ketsumeishi’s 33rd single, it was also selected as the theme song for the TV Asahi anime Crayon Shin-chan starting October 3 of the same year.
The music video, filmed entirely in India, visually expresses its brightness and uplifting message.
Perfect as a cheer song for school sports days and athletic festivals, this track energizes listeners and gently supports those striving toward their goals—truly an ideal anthem of encouragement.
FLY AGAIN 2019MAN WITH A MISSION
“FLY AGAIN 2019” was released in 2019 as a remake of MAN WITH A MISSION’s signature song “FLY AGAIN.” It was also used as the theme song for Fuji TV’s Monday 9 p.m.
drama Radiation House: Radiology Report.
Although the lyrics are entirely in English, it feels like a pep song that carries the message: “Overcome reality together with your comrades.” It’s definitely a track you’ll want to listen to before a match!
AgainWANIMA
A rock tune by WANIMA that sings of a strong will to move forward again while overcoming setbacks and failures.
It captures the realization that past experiences shape who we are now, and the determination to take a new step with the courage to stand up again and again.
Released in March 2019 on their 4th single “Good Job!!,” the song also drew attention as the theme for the TBS drama “Maison de Police.” It’s a motivational anthem that gently supports not only athletes but everyone striving toward their dreams and goals.
I am the strongest.Ado
A powerful anthem of will and resolve from the film ONE PIECE FILM RED.
Released by Ado in June 2022, the song is notable for lyrics brimming with self-affirmation that wells up from deep within and heartfelt care for one’s companions.
The energetic, exhilarating rock sound crafted by Motoki Omori of Mrs.
GREEN APPLE and Ado’s distinctive vocals truly shine.
The song expresses the feelings of the film’s character Uta, depicting the process of acknowledging one’s own weaknesses and anxieties while overcoming them to grow stronger.
It’s a perfect track for rallying yourself at a sports day or athletic festival, or when you want to strive together with your teammates.
See you, hero.Kawasaki Takaya
Takaya Kawasaki, whose captivating voice grabs your ears at first listen and has won fans of all genders—propelling him to sudden fame on social media.
His song “See You, Hero” is a gentle, warm cheer-up anthem that stays close to hearts that feel like they might break and to feelings weighed down by anxiety.
We often feel uneasy about casually tossed-out words like “Do your best,” but the “Do your best” that comes through in this song feels like it’s coming from the very bottom of the heart.
Its encouraging lyrics stir you to think, “All right, let’s give it a try!” and they also inspire you to treat others with kindness and strength.
