RAG MusicAthletics
Wonderful sports day / athletic festival

Western pop/rock cheer songs recommended for sports days and athletic festivals. Cheer songs from around the world.

Sports days and cultural festivals bring together all grades, so they’re some of the most anticipated school events.

At these events, music is also a key element for energizing the venue!

Of course, Japanese songs are classics, but many people probably want to pick some stylish Western tracks too.

So in this article, we’ll introduce plenty of Western pump-up songs that are perfect for sports days and athletic festivals!

From timeless tracks that make you want to start running the moment you hear them, to the latest hits hugely popular with younger generations, we’ve got a full lineup—use it as a reference for your playlist.

Cheer songs in Western music recommended for sports days and athletic festivals. World cheer songs (21–30)

Shape of YouEd Sheeran

Ed Sheeran – Shape of You (Official Music Video)
Shape of YouEd Sheeran

This is one of Ed Sheeran’s famously massive global hit numbers.

The refrain in the background creates an atmosphere that pairs beautifully with Sheeran’s delicate, translucent vocals.

While it can be heard as a stirring, passionate love song, the lyrics are open to interpretation.

At events like school sports days, I hope people enjoy its danceable beat and the quiet rise of excitement from within.

Shake It OffTaylor Swift

One of Taylor Swift’s signature songs, this high-tempo track pairs powerful drums with Taylor’s vocals that rise to the challenge, delivering a performance that lifts your spirits to the max.

Beyond its stellar sound, the message and lyrics—imbued with Taylor’s straightforward conviction—carry a reassuring strength that can blow away even our small worries.

Right before a make-or-break moment, put this song on and blast away the noise.

BurnDeep Purple

Deep Purple is a quintessential hard rock band active since the 1960s.

In Japan, they enjoy high recognition in the rock scene alongside Led Zeppelin.

Among their songs, the one perfect for sports festivals and school cultural festivals is Burn, released in 1974.

Its driving band sound is striking, and rock fans will love the exhilarating guitar solo.

Beyond its heat, the classical melodic lines also resonate deeply.

Give this rock tune a listen to boost the energy of any school event.

Uptown FunkMark Ronson

Mark Ronson – Uptown Funk (Official Video) ft. Bruno Mars
Uptown FunkMark Ronson

This is a super uplifting funk track by DJ Mike Ronson.

The opening guitar, the effectively used synthesizers, and above all, the break coming out of the verse that sends the energy soaring, followed by an explosive chorus, make a strong impression.

Listening to this song makes your body move naturally and lifts your spirits.

Let yourself be carried by the power of the horn section and the vocals.

Runaway BabyBruno Mars

Bruno Mars – Runaway Baby (Official Lyric Video)
Runaway BabyBruno Mars

A captivating track whose driving sound evokes 1960s R&B and rock, highlighted by Bruno Mars’s powerful vocals.

Included on his debut album Doo-Wops & Hooligans and released in October 2010, the song is told from the perspective of a playboy, depicting how he attracts someone yet ultimately walks away.

With its punchy beat and funky guitar riffs, it delivered a show-stopping performance that dazzled the audience at the 54th Annual Grammy Awards in 2012.

Also used as the opening theme for the film Friends with Benefits, this energetic number is perfect for amping up cheer routines and party scenes.

What Do You Mean?Justin Bieber

Starting with the sound of a ticking second hand and Justin’s sweet vocals, this track kicks off perfectly, highlighted by a sexy, drama-style music video.

It’s also a song infused with encouragement for those taking on a challenge.

With its crisp rhythm and beautiful singing, it’s ideal for pumping yourself up before a big moment or in the locker room.

ParadiseColdplay

Coldplay – Paradise (Official Video)
ParadiseColdplay

It’s a song by a British rock band that is acclaimed worldwide.

The track is truly grand, with a beautiful melody that flows at a lively pace.

I think it’s a great classic to beautifully enhance events like school sports festivals and athletic meets while creating a magnificent sense of excitement.