[New Songs & All-Time] Olympic Cheer Songs and Olympic Theme Songs
Every time the Olympics are held, a variety of songs are chosen as theme songs, right? In addition to NHK’s broadcast theme songs, the theme songs and cheer songs from commercial networks also draw attention.
And many of these songs go on to become staples not only for supporting sports but also as anthems that cheer people on in life, even after the Olympics are over.
In this article, we’ll introduce a comprehensive lineup of Olympic theme songs and cheer songs from over the years! It’s a parade of moving masterpieces that colored some of the most inspiring, unforgettable moments.
- [TOKYO 2020] Summary of Theme Songs and Cheer/Support Songs for the Tokyo Olympics
- [Deeply Moving] A Tear-Jerking Cheer Song: Popular Inspirational Anthems That Resonate with the Heart
- [New Songs & All-Time] Olympic Cheer Songs and Olympic Theme Songs
- [To All Athletes] Inspirational Sports Anthems & Empowering Theme Songs
- [2026] FIFA World Cup | Historic Theme Songs That Colored the Tournament
- [A Life-Affirming Anthem] An Encouraging Song to Cheer You On
- [Western Music] Official Olympic Theme and Cheer Song [2026]
- Songs to Play Before a Match: Athlete-Approved Anthems and Pump-Up Tracks That Overflow with Power
- Entrance Songs for Athletes | A Comprehensive Introduction to Athletes’ Game-Day Anthems!
- Koshien Songs & Theme Songs: Iconic Tracks and Fight Songs That Support High School Baseball Players
- [Exams, Club Activities, Dreams] Encouragement songs recommended for teens: Tracks to listen to when you want to do your best
- Popular Cheer Songs [Japanese Music Ranking]
- [Summer Cheer Song] A motivational anthem dedicated to those giving their all in sports or studying for exams
[New Songs & All-Time] Olympic Cheer Songs / Olympic Theme Songs (1–10)
To the distant oneTakahashi Mariko
Mariko Takahashi captivates listeners with expressive artistry grounded in her jazz sensibilities.
Released in 1994, this work was chosen as the NHK theme song for the Lillehammer Olympic broadcasts, adding a moving touch to the winter celebration.
Far more than a simple cheer song, its lyrics—like sending heartfelt thoughts to someone dear who is far away—and its grand melody resonate deeply with listeners.
How about sharing it when you want to cheer on someone important to you?
Joy-ride ~Drive of Ecstasy~EXILE
This is a single released in 2016 by EXILE, the dance-vocal group known for hit songs like “Choo Choo TRAIN.” It’s a high-energy uptempo track brimming with a sense of speed, like sprinting under the summer blue sky, and just listening to it lifts your spirits.
The lyrics convey a wish for listeners to stay relaxed even on the big stage, bring out their true strength, and ride the wave of jubilation.
It was chosen as the theme song for Fuji TV’s broadcasts of the Rio de Janeiro Olympics.
It’s a must-listen for anyone who wants to ease their nerves when it’s crunch time.
one secondSixTONES
This song was produced as the “2026 Athlete Support Song” for the Nippon TV network in the lead-up to the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics being held in February 2026.
It’s said that the real voices of the athletes—captured by the main anchors at their reporting sites—served as the foundation for its creation.
The passionate message, which sings of the split-second moments that decide victory and defeat, as well as the accumulation that leads up to them, resonates deeply.
It’s a piece you’ll want to listen to not only before sports competitions, but also in those pivotal moments of life—like exams or work—when everything is on the line.
[New Songs & All-Time] Olympic Cheering Songs and Olympic Theme Songs (11–20)
HIGHER STAGEFukuyama Masaharu
It’s a rock tune that helped define the excitement of the Beijing Olympics held in 2008.
Created by singer-songwriter Masaharu Fukuyama, it was included as the B-side of the single “Sou – new love new world -,” released in October of the same year.
The richly layered band sound arranged with Akira Inoue and the ringing guitar tones evoke the thrill of the stadium.
The lyrics, which depict striving for greater heights and continually pushing one’s limits, empower anyone taking on a challenge—not just in sports.
If you listen to it before a decisive moment, it will fill you with courage.
Road to Gloryarashi
It’s a song by the national idol group Arashi, included as the B-side of the single “Bittersweet,” released in February 2014.
It was chosen as the theme song for Nippon TV’s Sochi 2014 programming, supporting the athletes in their passionate challenges.
The emotional sound woven by piano and strings is striking, and the bittersweet yet powerful melody resonates like it echoes through the clear winter air, moving the heart.
With the earnest voices of the five members, it’s a cheering song that gives you energy for tomorrow.
KEEP ON YOUR SIDEKatsumata Aiko
This is a heartwarming cheer song sung by Aiko Katsumata, who drew attention with her overwhelming vocal prowess.
Released in January 2002 as her debut single, it was chosen as the theme for TV Tokyo’s broadcasts of the Salt Lake City Olympics.
The R&B-tinged melody pairs beautifully with Katsumata’s embracing, full-bodied voice.
The lyrics carry a message of transforming even pain and tears into strength and taking flight toward the future, mirroring the athletes striving in competition and stirring deep emotion.
It’s a timeless masterpiece that tells you, “I’m on your side.”
TogetherCrystal Kay
A timeless message that gives a push to those who keep taking on challenges is woven into this classic by Crystal Kay.
Included on a single released in February 2006, it was used as the relay theme song for TV Tokyo’s coverage of “Torino 2006.” The song is also featured on the acclaimed album “Call me Miss…”.
Crystal Kay’s supple movement between R&B and pop, paired with her expansive, nurturing vocals, is truly captivating.
It offers warmth that supports not only athletes facing high-stakes competitions, but everyone standing at a turning point in life—like entrance exams or job hunting.