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)
ECHOLittle Glee Monster
This is a motivational song by Little Glee Monster that was chosen as NHK’s rugby theme song in 2019.
Right from the start, the chant-like phrase sung in unison by all the members makes you feel your fighting spirit ignite at first listen, doesn’t it? The lyrics are striking, as if powerfully pushing you forward: “All those tough practices and training sessions—you’ve been building them up for this very day, right?!” Listening to this song will remind you of all the effort you’ve put in, and you’ll be able to step onto the field with confidence, thinking, “I’ve got this!”
Joint Struggle feat. RYOKI from BE:FIRSTsyudou
This is a beautiful song by syudou, who has gained widespread popularity in living rooms across the country.
Released in April 2024, the track features the star-studded lineup including RYOKI from BE:FIRST.
With a catchy melody and richly colored sound, the lyrics resonate powerfully, as if giving you a strong push forward.
Chosen as the theme song for TBS’s 2024 professional baseball broadcasts, those who watched the games avidly probably heard it many times.
I think it’s a song that supports not just baseball, but everyone striving in sports!
Songs to Listen to Before a Match: Athlete Favorites!? Power-Packed Anthems and Game-Day Tracks (31–40)
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.
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.
Kimisidai TrainONE OK ROCK
A song released in 2011.
Its upbeat tempo and momentum will instantly raise your energy! It also drew attention because figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu often listens to it, along with “Kanzen Kankaku Dreamer,” to boost his motivation and fire himself up.
The lyrics saying that only you yourself can make it happen are empowering, too.
Before an important event, tell yourself that—and go for it!
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!”