[WBC] Relive that excitement! A comprehensive roundup of theme songs, cheer songs, and walk-up music [2026]

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.
Accompanist / Piano Instructoryuri
Accompanist pianist × piano instructor × web writer. I began piano lessons at age four and, inspired by my piano teacher, decided to pursue music. I went on to specialized music programs in high school and university, where I discovered the appeal of accompanying instrumentalists and singers. Currently, alongside teaching piano, I work mainly in my home region of Aichi as an accompanist for flute, voice, choir, and more. Through lessons, my students often introduce me to trending songs, and my hobby is trying anything on the piano—Japanese and Western pop, commercial jingles, and beyond. Since 2021, I’ve also been active as a web writer, covering music and a variety of other genres.

“Cheer songs” that heighten the emotion of sports.In the World Baseball Classic (WBC)—the international, region-based baseball showdown that sends the world into a frenzy each time—the power of music plays a major role in firing up the players’ fighting spirit and uniting the hearts of fans.In this article, we introduce the historic theme songs and cheer songs used in WBC broadcasts and related programs in Japan, as well as tracks chosen as players’ walk-up music to spur them on.Please enjoy to your heart’s content these unforgettable classics etched in the hearts of baseball fans!

[WBC] Relive That Emotion Again! A Complete Introduction to Theme Songs, Cheer Songs, and Walk-up Music [2026] (21–30)

HAVE A NICE DAYBon Jovi

Bon Jovi – Have A Nice Day

HAVE A NICE DAYBon Jovi

A song by BON JOVI, the American hard rock band that has achieved massive global success and enjoys overwhelming popularity in Japan.

It’s the title track from their 9th album, Have a Nice Day, which debuted at No.

1 on Japan’s Oricon chart.

Despite its upbeat phrase, the song channels a defiant spirit that refuses easy compromise, and its ironic message, carried by powerful guitar work, resonates deeply.

The track was used for the finale of J-Sports’ highlight program covering the inaugural World Baseball Classic (WBC), syncing with memories of the players’ fierce battles and leaving a lasting impression on many baseball fans.

It’s a powerful rock tune worthy of being called an anthem for the soul.

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SAMURAI ROCKYoshikawa Koji

SAMURAI ROCK

SAMURAI ROCKYoshikawa Koji

Kikkawa Koji’s rock number, driven by a razor-sharp guitar riff from the intro, instantly stirs the fighting spirit of its listeners.

It sings of an indomitable, samurai-like resolve—becoming the “cutting edge” that carves out one’s own path without being swept away by a chaotic era.

When this song’s soul-stirring message played as the theme for the 2017 WBC broadcasts, it overlapped with the valiant presence of Samurai Japan and set supporters’ hearts ablaze.

Listen to it when you’re facing a battle you absolutely cannot lose or when you want to stand firm in your convictions—it will give you tremendous courage.

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HOMAREryo

Ryo｢HOMARE｣MV

HOMAREryo

An intro that starts quietly and weightily heightens the tension, and the structure that lets emotions burst forth all at once in the chorus makes this a striking number.

Because it’s sung by Ryo, who has a background as a former high school baseball player, each lyric that treats teammates, dreams, and hope as his own honor carries strong conviction.

This work was produced by Ryo’s uncle, Shuichi Ikemori of DEEN, and was released in September 2016.

As the theme song for TBS’s broadcast of the 2017 World Baseball Classic, it colored numerous iconic moments and is etched in the memories of many baseball fans.

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The Greatest ShowThe Greatest Showman

The Greatest Showman Cast – The Greatest Show (Official Audio)

The Greatest ShowThe Greatest Showman

The 2017 film The Greatest Showman, starring Hugh Jackman.

This is the number that opens the film in grand fashion.

Its powerful message, as if ushering the audience into the greatest show about to begin, unites the fighting spirit of athletes aiming to be the best in the world with the excitement of those who cheer them on.

Baseball fans may also remember that it was used as Shohei Ohtani’s walk-up song in the 2023 WBC.

If you listen to it at the climax of a game or at a crucial moment when you want to fire yourself up, it will give you the courage to deliver your best performance.

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to the point of achieving that goalEiki

Up to the point of achieving that goal

to the point of achieving that goalEiki

A solo number by Eiki, the frontman of SIAM SHADE who helped lead the ’90s rock scene.

With a piercing high-tone voice and a sense of exhilarating speed, this rock tune stirs the listener’s heart.

The lyrics affirm the pain behind victory and depict a strong will to aim for the goal nonetheless, delivering a message that ignites a fighting spirit.

The song colored all 47 thrilling games as the J SPORTS theme during the 2013 WBC.

It’s a track that will push you forward with power—not only before a match, but whenever you’re facing challenges.

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