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)
Runwaymilet
Japanese female singer-songwriter milet made her major debut in 2019 with the opening theme “inside you” for the Fuji TV drama Scandal Specialist Lawyer QUEEN.
The song Runway is included on her second EP, Wonderland EP.
It’s a track that evokes the image of darkness suddenly being enveloped in light—highly recommended before a match!
breakthroughSUPER BEAVER
A four-piece rock band, SUPER BEAVER has been drawing attention with emotionally resonant messages that pierce the heart and a classic yet modern rock sound.
This is their 13th single overall.
Released as a double A-side together with “I Want to Be Someone’s Pride,” it was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Haikyu!! TO THE TOP.
Its straightforward, fast-paced rock ensemble and positive lyrics are sure to lift the spirits of athletes who get nervous before a match.
With powerful vocals that give you courage, it’s an up-tempo tune that makes you feel like you’re fighting right alongside them.
RewriteASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION
Known by the abbreviation “Ajikan,” ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION is a four-piece rock band whose straightforward messages and rock sound captivate fans.
This is their fifth single.
Chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Fullmetal Alchemist, it’s one of Ajikan’s signature songs, boasting strong popularity both in Japan and abroad.
Its aggressive lyrics—said to satirize copy control CDs—may resonate with the fighting spirit of athletes stepping onto the field of battle.
A powerful rock tune with a driving arrangement that gives you a push forward.
[Songs to Listen to Before a Match] Loved by Athletes Too!? Power-Packed Anthems and Pump-Up Tracks (81–90)
laser beamPerfume
Laser Beam, sung by the technopop unit Perfume, is their 13th single, released in 2011.
It was used in commercials for Kirin Chu-Hi Hyoketsu and reached No.
2 on the Oricon Singles Chart.
The title “Laser Beam” may evoke Ichiro, the former professional baseball player who played in the Major Leagues, and the lyrics even include words like “ground,” which call baseball to mind.
So if you play baseball, try listening to it before a game!
electric shockYonezu Kenshi
A song by Kenshi Yonezu that served as the theme for the drama MIU404, starring Gen Hoshino and Go Ayano.
The lyrics evoke the storyline of the show! I recommend this as a “go-to” competitive track because, like the two leads in the drama, the lyrics compellingly portray a duo facing challenges together.
It’s perfect before matches in pair sports like table tennis or badminton! Plus, the lavish horn section and the cool, upbeat groove are sure to boost your energy before a game.
Symphonic Suite Dragon Quest: Overturesugiyama kouichi
A piece that Japan proudly offers to the world, and the theme of the Dragon Quest series—an enduring pinnacle of role-playing games that continues to captivate fans across generations.
For anyone who has played the games, just hearing the opening notes is enough to set your heart racing and bring back memories of countless adventures.
With its richly orchestrated arrangement and hope-filled melody, it’s sure to elevate the mindset of athletes heading into battle.
It’s a number that boosts fighting spirit and motivation while also reminding you to enjoy the competition.
Go GoBTS
Here’s what tennis player Naomi Osaka, who has achieved a world No.
1 ranking, was reportedly listening to: a song by the Korean hip-hop group BTS.
It’s included on their 2018 album ‘FACE YOURSELF.’ The lyrics say, “Let’s work hard and make money every day!” Money is important, isn’t it…? No, it’s really a positive message.
