As an athlete, music is something that is incredibly important to me. The right song can get me in the perfect mood before a game, motivate me when I'm down, and urge me to run faster or lift more. Music is the often unseen motivator, but if you ask most athletes they have a carefully selected playlist of pre-game music that pumps them up more than most pre-game speeches ever will.
Crafting such a playlist is something that gets taken pretty seriously. I've been working on mine since freshman year of high school and it just seems to get better with time. Every athlete is different, I have friends who get amped by listening to rap, country or even classical. To each their own, right? However, no matter what type of music you prefer, here are some songs that deserve a spot on everyone's pump up playlist.
1. "All I Do Is Win" by DJ Khaled feat. Ludacris, Rick Ross, T-Pain & Snoop Dogg
The title is pretty self-explanatory, this song is a classic. With lyrics like "cause I never been defeated and I won't stop now," and "can't never count me out y'all better count me in," this song is guaranteed to get you amped up.
2. "Winner" by Jamie Foxx feat. Justin Timberlake & T.I.
Even if you don't play a sport that involves a ball there is no doubt that this song is the perfect mix of catchy lyrics with a great beat. The chorus of this track is probably one of the most motivating series of lyrics on this list and it's absolutely perfect for those athletes who always feel like the underdog.
3. "Triumph" by Pitbull feat. Avery Storm
This is one of my personal favorites, its got a great sound that's pretty unique. Beyond that, its lyrics are so representative of the athlete grind that it motivates because every athlete knows exactly what it feels like and how much work is needed. Pitbull just sings it better than we can, you know?
Yeezus is king. I shouldn't have to say anything else but lets be real -- this song is killer and is perfect for any pump up playlist.
5. "Hall of Fame" by The Script feat. will.i.am
A departure from rap, this song gets me every time. Its lyrics are so inspirational and it really caters to anyone who has ever been an underdog or feels like they might never make it. To all you bench players out there; give this song a listen and then go chase your dreams.
6. "Till I Collapse" by Eminem feat. Nate Dogg
What kind go pump up playlist would this be if it didn't have Eminem on it? Probably a bad one. Just the intro to this song is enough to get you so amped you won't have to listen to anything else.
7. "Amazing" by Kanye West feat. Young Jeezy
This song has a little slower beat but its just what every athlete needs to hear before a big game. Confidence is key and this song certainly helps build that up and even strokes the ego a bit.
I can't make the whole list Kanye but, this song deserve a spot. Once a classic, always a classic.
9. "Memories" by David Guetta ft. Kid Cudi
Not your typical pump up track, this song reminds us what it's really all about -- the memories you make on and off the field with your teammates. Sometimes it's nice to not take yourself too seriously and just go out there and have fun doing what you love!
10. "Centuries" by Fall Out Boy
Being an athlete is about leaving your mark in the sporting world, no matter the scope of your reach. This song should motivate you to go out there and try your hardest because hopefully in 10 years you'll still be remembered by the very kids who play on the same field, pitch, track or court you graced.
11. "Remember the Name" by Fort Minor
I don't think I need to say anything about this song. Just listen to it.
12. "Forever" by Drake, Kanye West, Lil Wayne, & Eminem
The lyrics of this song tell a story of perseverance, hard work, and never giving up. Everything an athlete needs the field. The intensity and emotion put into this song should be something you can relate to and should take your desire to succeed to an out-of-this-world level.
There are a lot of songs I could have put on this list. Honorable mentions to "Drop The World" by Lil Wayne feat. Eminem, "Won't Back Down" by Eminem feat. P!nk, and "On Top of the World" by Imagine Dragons! Every single one of these songs should get you so extremely pumped up. Go out there a kill it next game day with the lyrics ringing in your ears!
