[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 & Classics] Recommended Western Music BGM for Sports Day & Athletic Festivals [2026] (31–40)
Never Gonna Give You URick Astley
Released in 1987, Rick Astley’s “Never Gonna Give You Up” was a massive hit at the time.
Since the song is frequently used across various media, many people have likely heard it.
For younger listeners, you might also know it because the music video is used in a TikTok filter.
It’s a track with a catchy melody delivered in an ‘80s sound that now feels nostalgic.
It’s a fun song that can be enjoyed by both adults and children!
What A Man Gotta DoJonas Brothers
Since their 2019 reunion, the Jonas Brothers have been on a remarkable roll.
This is their first release of 2020, a track called “What A Man Gotta Do.” The four-on-the-floor drums are powerful and boost the players’ morale.
The track is arranged mainly around acoustic guitar and drums, giving it a very fresh finish.
The intricately overlapping handclaps in the bridge also seem perfect for use in cheering battles between teams!
D.A.N.C.EJustice
Justice, the French electronic music duo.
Boldly sampled phrases from Michael Jackson’s tracks and a gritty, buzzing bass.
This ensemble is pure alchemy—supremely pop and incredibly danceable.
If a class chose this song to perform a dance at a school sports day or festival, I’d be convinced they have impeccable taste.
A legendary track from a world-renowned electro duo—why not take your big swing with this song?
CAN’T STOP THE FEELING!Justin Timberlake
Set to an irresistibly feel-good rhythm that makes you want to move, American artist Justin Timberlake delivers a positive message.
This uptempo track blends disco and soul-pop elements and was written for the soundtrack of the DreamWorks Animation film Trolls.
Released in May 2016, the song was co-produced with Max Martin and Shellback and became a massive hit, debuting at No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Packed with the charm of Timberlake, who also voices a character in the film, this song is perfect for active scenes like sports day events and group performances.
Its bright, optimistic melody and universally relatable, joy-filled lyrics are sure to lift participants’ spirits.
TouchLittle Mix
Little Mix is a British girl group known for each member’s standout personality and exceptional vocal prowess.
This is “Touch,” released in 2016.
Right after the song begins, it has an airy vibe that makes you think it might be a laid-back track, but from the chorus onward it snaps into place.
With its polyrhythms, it has a magical quality that naturally carries listeners along.
Featuring high-tone female vocals, it’s an incredibly energetic song.
[Latest & Classic] Recommended Western Music BGM for Sports Day & Athletic Festivals [2026] (41–50)
Despacito ft. Daddy YankeeLuis Fonsi
Luis Fonsi’s classic “Despacito ft.
Daddy Yankee,” with an unforgettable intro that begins with a rich, soulful flamenco guitar tone.
The song was released in 2017.
Around the same time, the music video was uploaded to YouTube, and in just eight months it surpassed approximately 3.8 billion views.
It became explosively popular.
The addition of hip-hop elements to a reggae foundation gives it an especially catchy, danceable groove!
Beat ItMichael Jackson
When it comes to classic tracks for sports days, you can’t leave out Michael Jackson’s “Beat It.” Its famously iconic guitar riff is instantly recognizable the moment you hear it.
The combination of an R&B-flavored drum machine beat with hard rock guitar sounds felt incredibly fresh and stirs up a fighting spirit.
Three legendary guitarists took part in this track, and the one most often talked about is Eddie Van Halen.
There’s even a story that the speakers caught fire while he was recording the guitar solo.
Quite literally, it’s a blazing, fiery track!