25 songs that became sports anthems unintentionally

You probably already knew this song would make the cut. “Eye of the Tiger” is the ultimate pump-up track, used in countless training scenes in movies (e.g., Rocky) and TV series. If you need a pre-game warmup anthem, this is the perfect go-to.

“We Will Rock You” is another classic sports anthem. The song even includes its infamous stomps and claps that drive stadiums wild. All I have to ask is: which version do you sing? (Rock you, sock you, pick you up and drop you…)  

AC/DC’s “Thunderstruck” instantly spikes adrenaline with its high-energy opening riff. It’s nearly impossible not to feel inspired by this epic track. Though not intentionally written to be a sports anthem, it certainly fits the bill here. 

“The Final Countdown” is the ultimate hype track. The beginning of the song promises an epic transformation and follows through with strength. It’s widely used in pre-game rituals, warm-ups, and — you guessed it — countdowns.

Especially popular in the soccer world, “Seven Nation Army” is the perfect sports anthem. The empowering lyrics mixed with the invigorating riffs are sure to motivate even the most exhausted players. 

“Don’t Stop Believin’” will bring any community together, whether they’re at their local bar or on their recreational soccer field. Particularly popular in the MBA, this song is a well-known sports anthem that rallies teammates together. It’s hard not to have a smile on your face (and a winning spirit in your body) when listening to the track. 

You might be wondering what a grunge song like this is doing on a sports anthem playlist. However, if there’s one thing about the grunge scene, it’s that they know how to pump up crowds and channel their high energy. Nirvana’s classic has been used for many warmups and training sessions.

“Whoomp! (There It Is)” is a catchy ‘90s tune about partying the night away. However, it shockingly became a massive sports chant. It’s the perfect pump-up song for any athlete (or clubber…your choice).

Have you ever heard of the power of positive affirmations? This song is basically filled with a ton of self-affirming statements and provides an upbeat anthem for anyone who might be trying to find a little confidence and motivation in their game. Of course, the hit wasn’t originally intended for athletes, but hey, if the shoe fits!

Did you know that “Who Let the Dogs Out” actually originated from a 1986 football sports chant? Baha Men knew what they were doing when they picked it up and turned it into a catchy tune. This playful and energetic song has been played in a variety of arenas and stadiums, and it quickly became a sports staple.

It’s no surprise that “Let’s Get It Started” became a widely popular sports anthem. The Black Eyed Peas track was the theme song for the 2004 NBA Playoffs on ABC. Soon after, it gained major traction in the sports world.

Kanye West might be a controversial musician, but he sure knows how to pump up his crowd. His song “Stronger” has been used by countless athletes for workout montages, player intros, and warmup routines. From its motivational lyrics to its hype beat, it’s hard not to feel motivated when listening to “Stronger.”

“My Songs Know What You Did in the Dark” is a vengeful, rage-filled track, making it the perfect sports anthem. The song’s cathartic chorus will get anyone on their feet. Soon after its initial release, the song gained widespread attention, used in broadcasts and major sports leagues alike.

I’m convinced everyone knows the lyrics to “Mr. Brightside,” as it seemingly brings entire crowds of people together to belt the song in unison. This massive hit was especially popular among football fans. In fact, as recently as 2023, “Mr. Brightside” became the Buffalo Bills’ anthem.

“Crazy Train” by Ozzy certainly packed some bizarre energy, making it the perfect sports anthem. Many sports teams (think: the New England Patriots) used it as their walk-out song. It’s easy to see why, given its particularly epic intro.

This motivational song is for all those athletes who’ve dealt with doubters. Not only are the lyrics about proving your haters wrong while overcoming adversity, but the track itself packs high energy. It’s become overwhelmingly popular in warm-up routines and montages.

Obviously, this song is meant for dancing. However, it’s bound to get anyone off the couch and moving, whether that be at a party, in the gym, or on the field. This song is frequently played at various sports events, and for good reason. 

KISS’s infamous hit “Rock and Roll All Nite” is well-known as a “jock jam.” While it’s clearly about partying the night (and day) away, it’s become a sports staple due to its energetic tune. Essentially, the entire premise of the song is rallying through exhaustion and pain. What a perfect message for athletes.

“Start Me Up” by The Rolling Stones is bound to get anyone riled up, especially before a game. It’s been played at many sporting events and featured in various sports-related commercials. 

“Lose Yourself” by Eminem is the ultimate inspirational song for athletes. From its motivational lyrics to its catchy rhythm, it’s hard not to have a winner’s attitude when listening to the track. It’s the perfect song for tough workouts or pre-game warmups.  

The song is a football-fan-favorite, specifically in Wisconsin, where athletes use the song to celebrate the fourth quarter of a game. In fact, the University of Wisconsin has upheld this tradition for over 25 years. Apparently, fans get so wired from the song (and dance, which basically just involves, well, “jumping around”) that they physically shake the stadium. 

“Song 2” by Blur is a staple in the sports world. Despite it being originally written as a parody of grunge culture (I’m offended), this track gained major traction. In fact, over time, it became a popular sports anthem for its energetic sound and chant-worthy chorus.

You can almost guarantee that any song titled “Jump” will make an incredible sports anthem. Such is the case for Van Halen’s signature track. In fact, in 2012, it was voted the most popular sporting song.

Kanye’s “All of the Lights” has a rousing energy that excites both athletes and fans alike. Often played in stadiums and locker rooms, the massive hit is a sports staple.

It’s nearly impossible not to feel pumped up after listening to OutKast’s “Hey Ya!” While its lyrics are actually downright depressing, the song itself is upbeat and lighthearted. So long as you don’t read too deeply into the song’s meaning, “Hey Ya!” is the perfect sports anthem.