Jock Jams: Sports Music for Your Show

One of my favorite memories growing up was attending hockey games with my family. Right at the beginning of each game, we would hear the big intro song used for our team blasting out over the loudspeakers. It was Welcome to the Jungle by Guns & Roses. They used it as a way to get the crowd (and the team) pumped up and ready for each game.

That song still gets me pumped up every time I hear it. 

Have you ever been to a sporting event and actually paid attention to the music? I find it very interesting how every baseball, football, hockey, and soccer game I attend has its own unique sounds and music that create the overall environment experienced by both the teams and the crowd.

The Power of Music in Sports

The world of sports is not just about athletes and competition; it's also about creating an unforgettable experience for spectators. Music plays a significant role in enhancing the atmosphere and energy during sporting events. Popular chart-toppers (like Centerfield), iconic anthems (like We Will Rock You), or musical trademarks (like the bell sound used in each round of boxing) have all become synonymous with excitement and spirit.

Music acts as a catalyst, igniting emotions, and building an electric atmosphere within stadiums and arenas. Its strategic placement and selection have the power to uplift, motivate, and engage both athletes and fans alike. The use of music in sporting events serves multiple purposes:

• Energizing the Crowd:
  Rousing anthems and catchy tunes can unite thousands of fans in a collective spirit, encourage them to cheer louder, and rally behind their favorite team.
• Player Introductions:
  An athlete's entrance is often accompanied by a personalized theme song (like in wrestling), building excitement for the spectators. 
• Celebratory Moments:
  When a home run is hit, a touchdown pass is caught, or a goal is scored, music amplifies the celebration. I'd bet you can think of the music that would be played when your team gets a score!
• Timeouts and Breaks:
  During breaks in the action, music keeps the crowd engaged and entertained.
  (7th inning stretch anyone? Take me out to the Ball Game!)

(BTW - Check out my YouTube short with some well-known sports themes here.)

Sports Music within Your Live Performances

Incorporating "sports" music into your live performances can be a fantastic way to boost energy and engagement with your audience. The iconic and upbeat tracks used in sports have a universal appeal, often associated with celebrations and a sense of collective enthusiasm. By integrating these familiar tunes into your sets, you can tap into the nostalgia and excitement that sports fans associate with these songs. Psychologically speaking, you've subconsciously taught your crowd to have a good time.

It is an automatic feeling of fun that you have built into every show. 

Here are some great examples of sports music you can use. Think about your own initial feelings toward these songs. If the song gives you a warm and fuzzy feeling inside, it has the potential to do the same for your fans:

• "We Will Rock You" by Queen
• "Seven Nation Army" by The White Stripes
• "Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor
• "Jump Around" by House of Pain
• "Thunderstruck" by AC/DC
• "Get Ready for This" by 2 Unlimited
  
  
• "All I Do Is Win" by DJ Khaled
• "Welcome to the Jungle" by Guns N' Roses
• "We Are the Champions" by Queen
• "Centerfield" by John Fogerty
  
  
• "Let's Get It Started" by The Black Eyed Peas
• "Turn Down for What" by DJ Snake and Lil Jon
• "Crazy Train" by Ozzy Osbourne
• "The Final Countdown" by Europe
• "YMCA" by Village People
• "Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey
• "Another One Bites the Dust" by Queen
• "Rock and Roll Part 2" by Gary Glitter
• "Kernkraft 400" by Zombie Nation
  
  

Final Thoughts

Incorporating sports music into live performances allows you to tap into the infectious energy and familiarity that is associated with the song, creating a shared experience with your audience. Learn to embrace the spirit of Jock Jams to elevate your shows, boost audience energy, and forge a deeper connection with your fans through an unforgettable and electric performance.

That's it for this week.

I hope your next show is the best one yet.

Danny