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)

SingEd Sheeran

Ed Sheeran – Sing [Official Music Video]
SingEd Sheeran

Starting with passionate guitar strumming, this track combines a wild vibe with Ed Sheeran’s beautiful vocal groove, making it an incredibly feel-good number.

The chorus’s rallying cry of “Sing!” leads into a crowd-friendly phrase that feels great to sing along to, guaranteed to lift everyone’s spirits.

It’s a wild tune that’s also a perfect fit as BGM for a sports day.

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.

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.

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.

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.