![[Latest & Classic] Recommended Western Music BGM for Sports Day & Athletic Festival [2025]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/ekr2nIex040/maxresdefault.webp)
[Latest & Classic] Recommended Western Music BGM for Sports Day & Athletic Festival [2025]
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.
[Latest & Classic] Recommended Western Music BGM for Sports Day/Athletic Festival [2025] (1–10)
APT.ROSÉ & Bruno Mars
This track stands out with a pop-rock sound full of wave-riding rhythm and powerful energy.
It’s a collaboration between Rosé, the main vocalist of Korea’s BLACKPINK, and 15-time Grammy winner Bruno Mars.
Released in October 2024, it topped the charts in more than 25 countries worldwide.
Inspired by a drinking game popular among young people, it deftly weaves together the exhilaration of a party and the sweetness of romance.
The wistful vocals and edgy guitar work blend seamlessly, resulting in a polished, sophisticated song.
It’s perfect for boosting team motivation at school sports festivals or anytime you want to hype up the crowd with powerful chants.
Pump ItThe Black Eyed Peas
This is a signature track by the Black Eyed Peas, notable for its grand sound that samples the surf rock classic “Misirlou.” Its energetic guitar riff, heavy beats, and lyrics that express a full-bodied passion for music blend perfectly, creating an irresistible pull for listeners.
Released in May 2005 as a track on the album Monkey Business, it achieved international success, reaching the top 10 in 13 countries worldwide.
It was also featured on the soundtracks of the films Little Man and Garfield: A Tail of Two Kitties, and its overwhelming presence has made it a favorite across various media.
It’s also ideal as background music for school sports days or athletic events, making it a perfect choice to boost participants’ motivation and enhance the sense of unity at the venue.
Good Luck, Babe!Chappell Roan
An exhilarating, edgy pop tune was released to the world in April 2024 by American artist Chappell Roan.
Centered on themes of self-liberation and the pursuit of truth, the track boldly expresses hidden emotions and inner conflict, seamlessly blending powerful vocals with a striking melodic line.
Hailing from Missouri, Roan began posting on YouTube at the age of 14 and made a major impact on the music scene with her album The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess.
She is a standout artist who has garnered high acclaim, including five Grammy nominations.
Used as background music for school sports days or athletic festivals, its vibrant, dynamic sound is sure to energize the entire venue.
EspressoSabrina Carpenter
Its addictive sound, which skillfully blends pop and funk, is captivating.
This work by American artist Sabrina Carpenter, who likens her own charm to “espresso,” drew attention as the lead track from the album Short n’ Sweet, released in April 2024.
With energetic beats and playful lyrics, the song portrays women’s confidence and allure in a positive light.
Its lyrics, shining with self-assurance and a sense of humor, went viral on social media platforms like TikTok and became a major hit, reaching No.
3 on the U.
S.
Billboard Hot 100.
Used for entrance scenes at sports days or athletic festivals, it can be expected to boost participants’ motivation.
Its powerful beat and positive message make it a perfect track to elevate the event’s atmosphere.
Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)Shakira
Unfolding with dynamic energy, this pop number overflows with African spirit atop a powerful, groovy rhythm.
The celebratory sound woven by Colombia’s Shakira and South African band Freshlyground is sure to be the ultimate BGM to fire up any sports day.
Released in May 2010, the track gained worldwide popularity as the official song of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, selling over 15 million copies globally.
It topped the charts in 15 countries and has amassed over 4 billion views on YouTube.
Blending a feverish, danceable beat with the spirit of football, this song is a perfect match for sporting events—powerfully propelling athletes toward victory and uniting the entire venue in a shared sense of excitement.
A Bar Song (Tipsy)Shaboozey
Shaboozey, an American artist who has opened up new ground by skillfully fusing country and hip-hop, vividly captures the feelings of young people who, overwhelmed by their daily work, gather at bars with friends to escape reality.
The song became a major hit, spending 19 consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100 starting in April 2024.
Its crisp rhythm and funky sound make it perfect for entrance scenes and group performances at school sports festivals.
It boosts students’ morale and transforms the entire venue into a space brimming with unity.
In May 2024, it was also performed on Jimmy Fallon’s talk show, bringing its appeal to a global audience.
We can highly recommend it as an energetic, crowd-pleasing number that’s ideal for use at athletic events.
HappyPharrell Williams
This song by American artist Pharrell Williams features a refreshing rhythm that blends elements of neo-soul and funk, expressing the joy of life and a positive outlook.
Its lyrics convey the importance of staying happy even in the most challenging situations, empowering every listener.
Released in November 2013, it was created for the soundtrack of the animated film Despicable Me 2 and was later included on the album G I R L.
Its appeal is evident from its achievement of holding the No.
1 spot on the U.
S.
Billboard Hot 100 for 10 consecutive weeks.
It’s perfect as background music for event entries or dance performances at school sports days, with the power to unite all participants.