[Latest & Classic] Recommended Western Music BGM for Sports Day & Athletic Festivals [2026]
At school sports days and athletic meets, BGM is crucial—not only for boosting the overall atmosphere, but also for motivating the students.
In the past, the go-to choices tended to be classic pieces like “Orpheus in the Underworld,” but in recent years, popular Western tracks from platforms like TikTok have also been used.
In this article, we’ve put together a selection of stylish Western songs to liven up your sports day or athletic festival, aimed at teachers who are struggling with choosing BGM.
We’ll focus on tracks that reflect the latest trends, and in the latter half we’ll also introduce timeless classics, so be sure to use this as a reference.
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[Latest & Classic] Recommended Western Music BGM for Sports Day/Athletic Festival [2026] (21–30)
A Kiss for SherryMichel Polnareff
It’s a song that was a big hit in 1971.
Both the lyrics and music are by Michel Polnareff, and back then you could hear it everywhere.
It was even used for cheer dances at my high school’s sports festival.
Times have changed, but with new arrangements, it remains a rare song that still works as a cheer anthem today.
Genghis Khan (also refers to a Japanese grilled mutton dish called ‘Jingisukan’)Dschinghis Khan
The song inspired by the Mongolian hero Genghis Khan became a worldwide hit starting in Japan in 1979.
For a time, it was used as entrance and exit music and as a dance track at many schools.
Nowadays, most elementary schools do not do radio calisthenics; instead, they conduct warm-up exercises and stretches in a dance format.
Because of its lively rhythm, some schools still use it for warm-up dances.
bad guyBillie Eilish
Billie Eilish, the breakout new artist everyone’s talking about.
Her popularity is soaring in Japan as well! This is her signature song, “bad guy.” Since it was used as the theme song for the TV drama “Shiro demo Kuro demo nai Sekai de, Panda wa Warau” (The World of Neither White Nor Black, the Panda Laughs), many people have probably heard it even if they don’t know her.
The catchy bassline and whispery vocals give it a very cool vibe, yet there’s something a bit comical about it too.
It’s a buzzworthy track, so you can’t go wrong adding it to your playlist!
I Was Born To Love YouQueen
The legendary song that needs no introduction, “I Was Born To Love You.” It’s one of the signature tracks by Queen, the iconic rock band representing the UK.
The song was released in 1995 and is included on Made In Heaven, the best-selling album in Queen’s history.
Despite being released after the death of vocalist Freddie Mercury, its high level of craftsmanship made it a beloved record among fans.
Freddie’s soaring vocals and the guitar solo that echoes like a distant howl make this a truly cool track.
STAYThe Kid LAROI, Justin Bieber
Released in 2021, “Stay” became a worldwide hit.
It’s a track by Australian rapper The Kid Laroi featuring Justin Bieber.
With its clear, airy sound and steady beat, the arrangement has a driving feel.
The call-and-response section that corresponds to the pre-chorus is a part that even those who can’t sing in English can join in on.
It’s perfect for sports days where people of all ages gather.
A video of Chocolate Planet’s Matsuo dancing to this song also went viral.
Because of that, even people who don’t usually listen to Western music have likely heard this song at least once.
Blinding LightsThe Weeknd
Blinding Lights is notable for its sound that blends a near-futuristic vibe with retro flair.
It’s a track released in 2019 by The Weeknd, a leading figure steering the next generation of R&B.
Right after its release, synth-pop—a genre that was a massive hit in the 1980s—became a trend.
Because of that, the song is regarded as one of the emblematic tracks of the revival boom.
With the steady drums and bass characteristic of synth-pop, it’s a tune that really gets you moving.
Love AgainDua Lipa
Dua Lipa is a singer who also works as a model.
Her vocals, which combine coolness and sexiness, are highly captivating.
Her hit song Love Again was released in June 2021.
While it’s not as widely known as her previous signature tracks like Don’t Start Now or Levitating, it showcases a different side of her with its memorable samples and dry guitar tones.
Her rich vocals remain as powerful as ever, delivering the dynamic melody with a sexy flair.