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!? Powerful Anthems and Victory Tracks (221–230)
winding roadNovelbright
Born in January 2025, Novelbright’s latest track is an uplifting anthem filled with strength and hope for facing life head-on.
It powerfully sings about the importance of believing in yourself and moving forward along life’s winding roads.
With its grand sound and refreshing melody, it resonates deeply and gently gives listeners a push forward.
Chosen as the theme song for TV Tokyo’s Drama 9 series “Dragon of the Court,” it’s also drawing attention for its music video directed by actor Hiroshi Tamaki.
Played during the exit scene of a school sports day, it would further amplify the children’s sense of accomplishment after the events and their excitement for taking the next step.
Zankyo SankaAimer
A work whose grand worldview woven by visuals and music is its chief allure.
The powerful message embedded in the lyrics—“overcoming past pain and moving forward into the future”—is beautifully harmonized with the dark, sweeping melody.
Aimer’s distinctive vocals resound with deep emotion and stir the heart.
It was released digitally in advance in December 2021, followed by a CD single in January 2022.
Chosen as the opening theme for the anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Entertainment District Arc, it drew major attention, including taking two crowns on Billboard Japan from its digital release.
Perfect for when you need the courage to walk toward your ideals or to fire yourself up.
Listening to this piece while training will surely give you the strength to push past your limits.
FantasistaDragon Ash
A classic Dragon Ash track that fuses powerful guitar sounds with a danceable beat.
The mix of English lyrics and striking flows in this mixture rock piece brims with elation and passion.
Released in March 2002, it was chosen as the theme song for Nippon TV’s broadcasts of the 2002 FIFA World Cup that same year, and was also included on the album HARVEST.
In live performances, it famously kicks off with Kj’s call, instantly sweeping the entire venue into a frenzy.
Energetic and positive, this song is perfect for boosting your motivation during training.
Pride RevolutionCHiCO with HoneyWorks
CHiCO with HoneyWorks, a collaborative unit of a singer and a creator team, has gained widespread popularity.
Their third single, Pride Kakumei, which was used as the opening theme for the TV anime Gintama, features vocals attuned to a rock sound and a driving ensemble that really pumps you up.
Its lyrics, which teach the importance of facing what truly matters regardless of your current ability, offer powerful encouragement when you feel like you’re about to break—a heart-stirring rock tune.
For DecadesLittle Glee Monster
A cheer song brimming with passion and energy has arrived.
Created by Little Glee Monster, this track powerfully conveys a love for soccer and hope for the future as the official support song celebrating the J.League’s 30th anniversary.
With powerful vocals and an uptempo beat, it’s packed with the unity between players and supporters and the courage to push forward through adversity.
Included on the album “Ambitious,” the song will be released for early digital streaming starting in February 2025, and is also being used in J.League game broadcasts and promotional videos.
It’s a must-listen not only for sports lovers but for anyone who has someone to cheer on.
Fleur de la PassionMISIA
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.
[Songs to Listen to Before a Match] Athletes Love Them Too!? Power-Packed Anthems and Victory Tracks (231–240)
I wanted to see you.AKB48
In today’s J-pop scene, the first idol group that likely comes to mind is AKB48, and this is their major-label debut single.
With numerous tie-ins on news and variety shows, it’s one of their signature songs that helped make the AKB48 name known nationwide.
Its catchy chorus, repeated throughout, and the adorably bright vocals typical of idol songs are sure to soothe even athletes feeling nervous before a game.
Just listening to it lifts your spirits and makes you feel positive—truly a quintessential modern idol song.