[Sports Day] Recommended Songs for Tug-of-War: A curated selection of powerful BGM to fire up your fighting spirit!

I can only face forwardAKB48

[MV full] We Only Look Forward / AKB48 [Official]

This is a breathtaking AKB48 track distinguished by a rock-inspired sound that embodies a powerful cry from the heart.

The lyrics, infused with a resolve to keep moving forward, together with the dynamic melody, fill listeners with courage and energy.

Released in February 2014 and recording an initial sales figure of approximately 1.091 million copies, the song was also used in commercials for Dip’s job information site “Baitoru.” Its powerful performance and passionate message make it a reliable ally in moments when you want to inspire unity and motivation—such as a tug-of-war at a school sports day.

Delusion:AllONE OK ROCK

ONE OK ROCK – Delusion:All [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

Here is a powerful, rousing track that stirs your fighting spirit.

Considered one of ONE OK ROCK’s signature songs, it also serves as the official theme for the film “KINGDOM IV: Return of the Great General.” Released on July 12, 2024, the song weaves in sharp perspectives on social division and contemporary politics, and is sure to resonate strongly with listeners.

Featuring a modern sound that blends elements of post-hardcore and alternative rock, it fully showcases the band’s musicality.

Play it during a tug-of-war at a school sports day and it will undoubtedly ignite participants’ competitive fire.

It’s also perfect to listen to before a big challenge or whenever you need a motivational boost.

Colonel BogeyKenneth Joseph Alford

Colonel Bogey — Arranged by Tetsuya Watanabe

Beloved as a staple of school sports days, this bright and friendly march was inspired by an incident on a golf course.

Composed in 1914 by British composer Kenneth Joseph Alford, it has long been popular in performances by military and concert bands.

It became known worldwide after being used in the 1957 film The Bridge on the River Kwai and later appeared in the 1985 film The Breakfast Club.

Its melody is simple enough to whistle and familiar to almost everyone.

At sports festivals, it’s often used as an entrance or marching tune for events, making it a perfect piece to energize the entire venue.

Critical HitRADWIMPS

RADWIMPS – A Masterstroke [Official Music Video]

This is a rock anthem packed with a grand message that resonates with young people, included by RADWIMPS in their December 2013 album “X to O to Tsumi to.” Riding on powerful guitar riffs and driving drum rhythms, it portrays the struggles and growth of a protagonist trying to find their own path in the midst of youth.

Its uncompromising alternative sound is brimming with energy, making it perfect for opening or closing ceremonies at school sports days.

The music video was filmed at Ageo Municipal Baseball Stadium in Saitama Prefecture and features a massive scale with 1,500 extras.

This work strongly supports students in the thick of their youth and those standing at life’s crossroads.

It’s the perfect song when you need the courage to take a new step forward.

gg resplendent10-FEET

10-FEET – gg Brilliant (2024 ABC Professional Baseball Theme Song)

An energizing, spirit-stirring track amps up the intensity of a tug-of-war showdown.

Created by 10-FEET, the song features a powerful rock sound and fiery message.

Released in June 2024, it was also selected as the theme song for ABC professional baseball.

Fueled by the passion of the band’s baseball-fan members, the piece brilliantly captures the excitement and unity of sports.

The music video—featuring lively elements like fire dancing inspired by capoeira—has also become a talking point.

Perfect not only for tug-of-war but for summer festivals, school sports days, and any scene where everyone wants to get fired up.

Just listening will fill you with strength—be sure to check it out!

single-minded; wholehearted; devoted; earnestKing Gnu

King Gnu – Ichizu

This song features an impressive, grand sound written as the theme for the anime film Jujutsu Kaisen 0.

Since its release in December 2021, it has topped the Oricon Weekly Digital Singles chart and went on to rank No.

1 on the combined yearly singles chart the following year.

Its powerful guitar riffs, driving drum beats, and the rich harmonies woven by the two vocalists are truly stirring.

Singing of the resolve and determination to give everything for a loved one, the track showcases King Gnu’s signature mixture rock sound.

It’s a highly recommended song when you want to take on something with all your might or fire yourself up.

GONGWANIMA

WANIMA「GONG」OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

Starting with a powerful intro where the guitar riff rings out, this fiery track from WANIMA delivers a exhilarating rock sound and an empowering message that resonates deeply.

Released in July 2019 as the theme song for the feature-length anime One Piece: Stampede, the song portrays the feelings of adventurers sailing across vast seas, emphasizing a strong will to face hardships and the importance of bonds with comrades.

It’s the perfect song for moments when you give it your all and step up to the challenge—or when you want to shout out and push yourself forward.