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!? Power-Packed Anthems and Pump-Up Tracks (21–30)
Divine Wind -KAMIKAZE-AK-69
AK-69, who commands overwhelming support not only within hip-hop but also from many athletes.
His song “Divine Wind -KAMIKAZE-” blends lyrics infused with a fierce resolve to live as if ready to die with an aggressive beat that ignites the listener’s fighting spirit.
It’s included on the 2019 album THE ANTHEM and was chosen as the theme song for AbemaTV’s “Grand Sumo LIVE.” With a weighty presence that mirrors the intensity of sumo, it was also selected as a rugby support song—truly an anthem for warriors.
When you’re facing a do-or-die moment or need courage, it’s sure to give you a powerful push forward.
Soul RevolutionSuperfly
Among Superfly’s songs, this one is an especially high-energy, pumped-up uptempo track.
It was used as NHK’s soccer theme song, so many people may recognize it from the World Cup and other events.
Its heavy, powerful rhythm makes you want to start nodding along before you know it! It inspires the feeling of getting back up no matter how many times you fall.
In 2016, Hanshin’s Fukudome used it as his walk-up song.
Songs to Listen to Before a Match: Athlete Favorites!? Power-Packed Anthems and Game-Day Tracks (31–40)
Diving Boardmilet
A female singer-songwriter, milet, whose songs reflect a wide range of influences from classical to rock and whose lyrics deftly weave together Japanese and English, has gained strong popularity.
This track, included on her 3rd EP “us,” features a piano-driven sound with a refreshing yet layered arrangement that feels great.
Its message, which gives you a push and fires you up, would surely resonate as the best kind of encouragement for athletes before a match.
With melodies and beats that feel like a tailwind and boost your motivation, it’s a cool pop tune.
sixth senseREOL
A hugely popular song used as the image track for the BOAT RACE 2020 TV commercial.
With a bold focus on electro sounds and a stylish production, plus a structure true to dance music, just listening to it will keep raising your excitement! And as the title “Sixth Sense” suggests, beyond the results of all the training and practice you’ve built up, you can head into the match with confidence, thinking, “In the very end, I just need to trust my sixth sense!”
START IT AGAINAK-69
When it comes to artists in Japan’s hip-hop scene who are widely recognized by the general public, AK-69 definitely comes to mind.
His lyrics, brimming with masculine resolve that stirs our empathy, resonate especially strongly with men.
One of his most motivating tracks is “START IT AGAIN.” Lines about standing back up, keeping the fire in your heart alive no matter the situation, and never giving up really hit home.
It’s a song supported by many athletes—professional boxer Kazuto Ioka even uses it as his entrance music.
ContinueSEAMO
Track and field athlete Nozomi Tanaka and lacrosse player Sachiyo Yamada both love listening to SEAMO’s “Continue.” Released in 2008, it became a hit following “Mata Aimashou.” At the time, it drew attention for using Edward Elgar’s classical piece “Pomp and Circumstance” as a motif.
The song was also chosen as the theme for the drama “Yume wo Kanaeru Zou,” marking SEAMO’s first drama tie-in.
It carries the message that what matters is not obsessing over winning or losing, but continuing to challenge yourself without giving up.
Horse and deerYonezu Kenshi
A song by Kenshi Yonezu characterized by powerful melodies and lyrics that resonate with the heart.
Written as the theme song for the drama “No Side Game,” it was released digitally in August 2019.
Alongside its grand sound, the lyrics—depicting people who confront adversity and keep moving forward—leave a strong impression.
By listening to one’s inner voice and singing of the importance of love and bonds, this piece encourages those who wish to keep challenging themselves without giving up in the face of hardship.
Give it a listen when you’re striving toward a new environment or goal.