Ranking of popular sports songs

Don’t give upZARD50rank/position

Don't Give Up – ZARD (Full)

When it comes to motivational songs, many people probably think of ZARD’s “Makenaide” (“Don’t Give Up”).

Although it was originally a song about a long-distance relationship, it became established as a classic cheer song because it’s sung to support the runners’ final sprint in the 24-Hour TV charity marathon.

Its mid-tempo melody gives it a sense of drive while still being easy to sing, which is another reason it’s loved by so many.

If you’re looking to rally a crowd in song, be sure to choose this track.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

yamamoto

Report a problem

OtonokeCreepy Nuts51rank/position

Creepy Nuts – Otonoke [Official MV] [Dandadan Opening]

This Creepy Nuts track, which captivates listeners across generations from children to adults, was written as the opening theme for the anime Dandadan.

Its driving, fast-paced beat and emotional hook leave a strong impression, while lyrics themed around the occult and the supernatural enhance the song’s atmosphere.

Released as a digital single in October 2024, it was later issued on CD as well.

The song is also included on Creepy Nuts’ fourth studio album, Legion.

It’s a track that stokes your fighting spirit when you listen to it before an important game or competition.

Highly recommended for anyone who believes in the power of music.

A Cheer Song Dedicated to YouHIPPY52rank/position

[MUSIC VIDEO] A Cheer Song Dedicated to You / HIPPY

Its straightforward lyrics and husky vocals deliver a powerful cheer to everyone who listens! This song by singer-songwriter HIPPY was included on the album “HomeBase ~Arigatou~,” released in March 2017.

It originally started as one of the album tracks, but spread by word of mouth among athletes and students, and in 2020 it was chosen as walk-up music by 11 professional baseball players—the most that year.

Starting in 2025, it’s also been featured as the CM song for Morinaga Seika’s “in brand,” familiar from commercials supporting the Tokyo 2025 World Athletics Championships.

It’s a moving classic whose message stands beside anyone who keeps getting back up.

How about it for those moments when you want to unite hearts with your teammates?

Until the World Ends…WANDS53rank/position

Until the World Ends... – WANDS (Full)

WANDS, a band that brightened Japan’s music scene in the 1990s.

Their hit song “As the World Ends…” was released in 1992 and is also known as the ending theme for the anime Slam Dunk.

The lyrics, which evoke a sense of lost love and the loneliness that follows, have resonated with many and made it a timeless classic.

It’s a recommended track for everyone who loves basketball and for those striving to move forward in their daily lives.

HeroAmuro Namie54rank/position

Hero – Namie Amuro (Full)

The song by Namie Amuro, created as a cheer anthem for athletes challenging the Olympics, carries a hopeful message that everyone has their own hero and can one day become someone else’s hero.

Released in July 2016, the track was selected as NHK’s theme song for the Rio de Janeiro Olympic and Paralympic broadcasts, and it adorned a moving performance at the 68th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen in 2017, achieving a peak viewer rating of 48.4%.

Choosing this piece as your walking companion will energize you for a brand-new day.

Outlineimase55rank/position

[imase] Outline (MV)

An inspiring support song for the 103rd All Japan High School Soccer Championship, vividly portraying the passion of high school students taking on the challenge of competition.

Imase—who devoted his own high school years to soccer—wove this piece from his personal experiences.

Within its majestic soundscape and powerful beat, it paints a striking picture of a boy facing trials, the resolve to rise again after tears, and a future brimming with hope.

Released in October 2024, the song was also performed at the final held at the National Stadium.

It is a warm-hearted anthem that stands with everyone who dedicates their youth to sports and all those who keep challenging themselves in pursuit of their dreams.

KoshienFukuyama Masaharu56rank/position

Masaharu Fukuyama – Koshien Special Trailer <Original Music Video (Short ver.) + Making>

An uplifting cheer song has arrived to support the scorching summer Koshien! Created by Masaharu Fukuyama, the track was released in August 2018.

Centered on themes of challenge, hope, and vitality, it passionately sings of the players’ spirit.

Produced as the theme song for NHK’s high school baseball broadcasts, it moved the hearts of many.

Over 300 high school students took part in the music video, which was filmed at Hanshin Koshien Stadium.

The song also reflects Fukuyama’s own experiences from his school days, making it a heartfelt piece.

It’s a cheer song that gives courage to everyone striving toward their dreams—be sure to give it a listen.