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.

Recommended Western cheer songs for sports days and athletic festivals. Cheer songs from around the world (31–40)

MonsterSkillet

Skillet – Monster (Official Video)
MonsterSkillet

A song by Skillet, a Christian metal band that has gained popularity with its hefty metal sound incorporating various instruments and its distinctive arrangements blending male and female vocals.

As the second single from their seventh album, “Awake,” its tight guitar sound and gritty vocals evoke the title perfectly.

The lyrics, which sing of an uncontrollable impulse, are sure to get you fired up before the battle begins.

It’s the kind of BGM you’ll want to hear before an unlosable showdown—music that awakens your true determination before events like sports days or athletic competitions.

Eye Of The TigerSurvivor

Survivor – Eye Of The Tiger (Official HD Video)
Eye Of The TigerSurvivor

A song by Survivor, an American rock band whose name was chosen to evoke the idea of being “survivors of American rock,” which rose to popularity in the mid-1980s.

As the theme song for the film Rocky III, it became a worldwide hit and is often heard in Japan across a wide range of contexts, from variety shows to sports programs.

The lyrics, which convey a strong determination that mirrors the film’s story, are perfect for boosting your adrenaline before a big moment.

With piercing high-range vocals and intense guitar work, it’s a cool rock tune you’ll want to play before events at school sports days and athletic meets.

ME!Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift – ME! (feat. Brendon Urie of Panic! At The Disco) ft. Brendon Urie
ME!Taylor Swift

With its strikingly colorful and cute music video, this Taylor Swift track is a euphoric number that feels open, joyful, and light—like you could live freely forever.

It’s a duet featuring Brendon Urie, the vocalist of the rock band Panic! At The Disco, and its lyrics and tone bring out the power and charm of women, adding a colorful, liberating touch to a special day.

GirlfriendAvril Lavigne

Avril Lavigne – Girlfriend (Official Video)
GirlfriendAvril Lavigne

This is a song by a hugely popular Canadian singer.

Among her tracks, this one is especially melodic, catchy, and upbeat—perfect for school sports festivals where energy and excitement matter! After all, it’s best to choose a song everyone knows.

I Don’t CareEd Sheeran & Justin Bieber

Ed Sheeran & Justin Bieber – I Don’t Care [Official Music Video]
I Don't CareEd Sheeran & Justin Bieber

Delivered by the powerhouse duo of Ed Sheeran and Justin Bieber, this track is irresistibly poppy and easy on the ears.

The relaxed restraint in both of their vocals, paired with the title “I Don’t Care,” makes it feel like the kind of song that lets you forget the bad and the tough, and spend the best day with a friend or lover.

Western pop/rock cheer songs recommended for sports days and athletic festivals. World cheer songs (41–50)

CirclesPost Malone

A mellow number by rapper Post Malone, this song feels like it heals the hearts of those who’ve experienced heartbreak or other failures.

Malone’s sorrowful vocals ride over a band-driven track, shaping the atmosphere of the piece.

The gentle tone makes it a beautiful song, yet it carries a profound depth and a quiet, uplifting power.

Don’t Let Me Down ft. DayaThe Chainsmokers

The Chainsmokers – Don’t Let Me Down (Official Video) ft. Daya
Don't Let Me Down ft. DayaThe Chainsmokers

This is a track by the DJ unit The Chainsmokers—who keep energizing parties around the world with their outstanding songwriting and performances—featuring a female guest vocalist.

The arrangement ramps up powerfully toward the chorus, naturally lifting your spirits, and the emotional beat and vocals in the chorus are sure to switch us ON.