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

PlazmaYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – Plazma

A January 2025 single by Kenshi Yonezu distinguished by its powerful beats and grand sound.

Written as the theme song for the feature film Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning-, the piece stands out with energetic, defiant expression.

It portrays profound themes—hope for the future, trust in one’s inner strength, and the bonds forged amid battle—through a unique worldview.

The contrast between fierce electronic beats and delicate melodies brilliantly conveys both fighting spirit and the importance of teamwork.

As music for the tug-of-war, a sport where strength and hearts unite, it’s sure to ignite the fighting spirit of children.

Symphony No. 9 “From the New World,” Fourth MovementAntonín Leopold Dvořák

Dvořák: Symphony No. 9 “From the New World,” Fourth Movement

A celebrated piece, noted for its powerful string sonorities and passionate fanfares, was premiered by Antonín Dvořák at Carnegie Hall in New York in December 1893.

With its majestic sound and exhilarating momentum that makes you want to move, this work was composed during his stay in America and was inspired by Native American music.

It has been recorded by many renowned conductors and orchestras, and was even used in Japanese commercials in the 1970s.

Popular as background music for school sports-day cheer battles and footraces, its thrilling performances ignite the entire venue.

Frequently used for ceremonies and graduations—bright, festive occasions—it’s perfect for creating memorable moments.

Symphony No. 5 “Revolution,” Fourth MovementDmitri Dmitriyevich Shostakovich

Shostakovich: Symphony No. 5 “Revolution,” Fourth Movement

A masterpiece that combines power and grandeur, this work dynamically conveys the appeal of Dmitri Shostakovich’s symphony.

The orchestra’s commanding performance instantly elevates the atmosphere of a gymnasium, creating excitement befitting a tense competition.

At its premiere in Leningrad in November 1937, Yevgeny Mravinsky and the Leningrad Philharmonic Orchestra achieved great success with their performance.

Featuring march-like phrases and a forceful rhythm, this piece is an ideal BGM to lift the spirits of all participants and lead them onto a grand stage.

Used for the main events of a sports day or for entrances and exits, it will foster a strong sense of unity throughout the venue.

Kaikai KitanEVE

Kaikai Kitan – Eve MV

A work by Eve that stands out for its exhilarating sound and vocals that feel like an incantation.

Centered on themes of facing oneself and the strength to overcome darkness, the song powerfully portrays the inner struggles of being human.

It opens with a heavy guitar riff and deftly depicts dark, complex emotions.

Its melodic chorus grips the listener and won’t let go.

Released in October 2020 and used as the opening theme for the first season of the anime Jujutsu Kaisen, this track gives you strength when you want to steel yourself for an important match or competition, and when you want to ignite your fighting spirit together with your teammates.

L’Arlésienne Suite No. 2: FarandoleGeorges Bizet

[Vasily Petrenko] The Girl from Arles ~ Farandole Georges Bizet: Farandole, from “L’Arlésienne” Suite

This is a powerful piece based on a traditional festive dance from the Provence region of France.

It also incorporates local Christmas carols, achieving a splendid fusion of brilliant, majestic melodies and vibrant, dynamic rhythms.

Georges Bizet’s incidental music for the play “L’Arlésienne,” premiered at the Théâtre du Vaudeville in Paris in October 1872, ended after 21 performances; however, this work was later published in 1879 as part of a suite compiled by his friend Ernest Guiraud.

It’s a familiar piece that was also used in Disney’s educational series “Little Einsteins,” making it a perfect choice as background music for sports day marches or during competitions.

With its sense of drive and exhilaration, it’s an energetic tune that naturally makes you want to move.

Crimson Lotus FlowerLiSA

LiSA “Gurenge” -MUSiC CLiP- (Anime “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba” Tanjiro Kamado: Unwavering Resolve Arc Opening Theme)

This song depicts the courage to face adversity, with a powerful rock sound and a richly projected vocal that represents modern anime.

It captures the indomitable spirit of a protagonist striving to overcome countless hardships and the strong will to protect loved ones, resulting in a striking piece.

LiSA’s vocals brilliantly convey the story’s themes.

Released in April 2019, it was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, became a massive hit, and earned numerous accolades, including an appearance on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

Its dynamic, high-impact sound is perfect for sports days and athletic festivals, and it also works great as a rousing cheer song everyone can enjoy together.

Miracle of BondsMAN WITH A MISSION×milet

MAN WITH A MISSION × milet “Kizuna no Kiseki” Music Video

A powerful rock sound that pierces the dark night and milet’s clear, transparent vocals make this collaboration with MAN WITH A MISSION unforgettable.

It unfolds a dramatic world of courage in the face of adversity and the bonds shared with cherished companions.

Released in May 2023, it drew attention as the opening theme for the TV anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Swordsmith Village Arc.

Portraying friends joining forces and taking steady steps toward their dreams, this track is sure to stir the heart as march music for sports festivals and field days, or as uplifting BGM for performances.