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: Athlete Favorites!? Power-Packed Anthems and Game-Day Tracks (211–220)
earnest desireSUPER BEAVER
SUPER BEAVER’s deeply moving masterpiece that sings about the importance of human connections is included on their album “Ongaku,” released in February 2024.
The song gently conveys how an individual’s happiness is built with the support of many people and the warmth created by a chain of smiles.
The album “Ongaku” also features several tie-in tracks, including the theme song for the film Tokyo Revengers 2 and the anthem for the 103rd National High School Rugby Tournament.
It’s the perfect song for cheering on those practicing for sports days and field days, or for reminiscing about the memories of working up a sweat with your friends.
Start to shine and run forwardSambomasutā
This is a renowned song that powerfully portrays a protagonist, burning with passion, dashing toward the future while pursuing their true self.
It resonates with the message that there’s no need to imitate anyone else, and that it’s important to let your own unique flower bloom.
The track is filled with courage and determination, urging listeners to take a step toward hope by overcoming the sorrow and pain they carry.
Released as Sambomaster’s single in August 2018, it was used as the theme song for the TBS Friday drama “Cheer☆Dan.” As a song that supports the story of high school students striving toward their dreams, it deeply moved many viewers.
It’s a piece that strongly pushes the backs of those devoted to lessons and practice, and those facing hardships, giving them the courage to take a step forward.
AHHH HALil Durk
Lil Durk is one of the most popular rappers right now.
He’s a real rapper whose life itself is hip-hop—more than just the music.
Among his catalog, the track I especially recommend is AHHH HA.
It was released as a response song in his beef with Never Broke Again YoungBoy, a.k.a.
YoungBoy.
Because of that, the lyrics are filled with aggressive expressions, but that sharp edge can actually be motivating for athletes, don’t you think? I especially recommend it for those competing in individual sports.
[Songs to Listen to Before a Match] Loved by Athletes Too!? Powerful Anthems and Victory Tracks (221–230)
So take a step forwardHi-Fi CAMP
Hi-Fi CAMP was a four-member group active from 2007 to 2013.
The high-tone voice of the vocalist, KIM, is especially striking.
“Dakara Ippo Mae e Fumidashite” (So Take One Step Forward) is a positive song that we want everyone living in this era to hear.
It carries a forward-looking message: there’s no point in keeping your head down—don’t wear a lonely face; at least try to smile.
The chorus is very catchy and refreshing, so it’s especially recommended for students!
at one’s own paceSun Set Swish
Ami Kondo, a women’s judo athlete who has also won an Olympic medal, listens to this song before her matches.
True to its title, “At My Own Pace,” the lyrics leave an impression with their message that it’s okay to move forward step by step, taking breaks along the way.
I’ve heard she listens to it at full volume, as if reminding herself of the message in the lyrics.
It’s a timeless classic that never goes out of style, isn’t it?
Dokimeki Diaryasmi feat. Chinozo
Like weaving together precious memories, this song is filled with uplifting messages brimming with hope and anticipation.
asmi’s clear, transparent vocals and Chinozo’s refined compositional sense blend beautifully, creating a pleasant sense of elation.
Portraying the courage and determination to take a new step forward while overcoming the anxieties and confusion of a journey of self-discovery, the track has been beloved as the opening theme for the Pokémon TV anime since April 2023.
It also received its first full-size performance during the special program “Anime Pokémon Music Festival,” broadcast on the TV Tokyo network on March 31.
It’s a powerful cheer song that gives you a supportive push at moments of new challenges—such as before events at sports days or athletic festivals.
THIS WORLDROTTENGRAFFTY
ROTTENGRAFFTY, one of Kyoto’s signature bands, is shaking up the rock scene with their twin vocals.
Their emblematic song “This World” is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at live shows.
Its lyrics are sure to resonate with athletes facing monumental walls and chasing records.
You can relate to the message of smashing through whatever stands in your way and pushing past your limits to reach what lies beyond.
The rock sound, which seems to travel through your ears and hit you in the pit of your stomach, is bound to ignite your fighting spirit.
