[To All Athletes] Inspirational Sports Anthems & Empowering Theme Songs
When it comes to cheering on athletes chasing their dreams, music is indispensable.
Cheer songs aren’t just for professional athletes—they’re dedicated to everyone working hard in sports.
In this article, we’ll introduce recommended tracks that will fill you with energy just by listening: tie-in songs for sports tournaments and related programs, theme songs from sports-themed anime, entrance songs for athletes, and more.
Find the perfect songs to accompany your daily training sessions or the time you spend enjoying sports with friends.
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[To all athletes] Support songs and empowering theme tracks for sports (101–110)
HeroAmuro Namie
This is “Hero,” the NHK theme song for the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics by Namie Amuro.
It left a strong impression on many people after she performed it at the 2017 NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen following her retirement announcement.
It’s both a sports anthem and a major hit from just before her retirement.
Don’t give up on your dreamsOkamura Takako
Yume wo Akiramenai de, the fifth single by Takako Okamura released in 1987.
Its melody and vocals are clear and gentle, a song that quietly sinks into the heart of anyone striving in sports.
The lyrics tell us that even when you’re doing your best, there are times you fail or feel down, but they encourage you not to give up on your dreams, saying, “I love the look in your eyes when you give it your all.” By the time you finish listening, you feel soothed and energized.
It’s a track I’d recommend to every athlete chasing their dreams.
a winning battleToukyou Jihen
This piece was also chosen as the image song for WOWOW Tennis 2020.
It’s performed by Tokyo Jihen, a band whose members each boast exceptional musicianship.
The track’s pop yet edgy sound vividly evokes athletes fighting with everything they’ve got.
The English lyrics embody an unrelenting obsession with victory, and simply listening to it stirs your competitive spirit.
The song is included on the classic album “Sports,” released in February 2010.
It’s the perfect track to play when you want to sharpen your focus before a match or when you’re heading into a contest you absolutely cannot lose.
Be sure to check it out!
Decisive Battle SpiritCHiCO with HoneyWorks
“Kessen Spirit,” the 12th single by CHiCO with HoneyWorks released in 2020.
This track also served as the ending theme for the anime Haikyu!! TO THE TOP, which focuses on the achievements of a high school volleyball team.
It’s a song that will likely resonate not only with volleyball players but with athletes across all sports.
With a vibe that perfectly matches phrases like “go for the win” and “push forward,” it’s a recommended track for when you want to stoke your fighting spirit.
AoiSakanakushon
It’s a song included on Sakanaction’s sixth album, and it was chosen as NHK’s soccer theme in 2013.
The blue that appears in the lyrics and title refers to the Japan national team’s color.
It’s an energetic, fast-paced cheer song that’s quintessentially Sakanaction.
[To All Athletes] Sports Cheering Songs & Empowering Theme Tracks (111–120)
Blast!TRUE
Songs that start with a dazzling fanfare are perfect as sports anthems, aren’t they? TRUE’s “Blast!” is the theme song for the anime film Sound! Euphonium: The Finale Oath.
It opens with a bright, energetic brass sound right from the intro, and the lyrics are uplifting, so it’s a track you’ll want to listen to during sports.
Stand by Methe peggies
This song by the three-piece girls’ band the peggies, released in May 2019, is the ending theme for the anime Sarazanmai.
The track ties in with the anime’s themes, singing about setbacks, hope, and desire, and it’s likely to resonate with both athletes and those who cheer them on.
It’s pop, yet it carries a certain bittersweetness.