The Paris Olympics are currently underway, with athletes from around the world competing in 32 sports. Music plays a significant role in the games, from the operatic opening ceremony to athletes’ warmup songs. A musical guide to each sport has been created, with songs chosen to reflect the essence of the sport they represent. From Taylor Swift’s “Lover” for archery to Kanye West, Lil Wayne, and Eminem’s “Forever” for basketball, each sport has a fitting soundtrack.
Some sports are represented by iconic songs, like Simon & Garfunkel’s “The Boxer” for boxing and Kraftwerk’s “Tour de France” for cycling. Other sports, such as fencing and hockey, are paired with songs like K-pop group Blackpink’s “How You Like That” and Dolly Parton’s “Coat of Many Colors.” Each song is chosen to evoke the spirit and energy of the sport it represents, creating a unique musical experience for viewers watching the games.
The music selection extends to newer sports like skateboarding, with Lupe Fiasco’s “Kick, Push” capturing the youthful spirit of the sport. Miley Cyrus’ “The Climb” is a perfect anthem for surfing, while Bad Bunny’s “La Tóxica” honors Puerto Rican swimmer Benny Carrión. The diverse range of songs chosen for each sport reflects the global nature of the Olympic Games and the different cultures and traditions that come together in Paris.
As the Olympics continue, athletes in various disciplines will compete for medals and glory. The music playlist for each sport adds an extra layer of excitement and emotion to the games, enhancing the overall viewing experience for audiences around the world. Whether it’s the power of Eminem for weightlifting or the nostalgia of London’s indie rock scene for wrestling, each song brings its own unique energy to the competition.
With the modern pentathlon semifinals and finals taking place at the Palace of Versailles, a pick from the Swedish power metal band Sabaton adds a touch of grandeur to the event. For rowing, a British boy band’s reunion-era cut captures the essence of the watersport. From Miley Cyrus to Waka Flocka Flame, a diverse range of artists and genres come together to create a vibrant and dynamic musical backdrop for the 2024 Paris Olympics.
As the games continue to unfold, the music playlist for each sport will continue to enhance the experience for viewers and athletes alike. Whether it’s the high-energy beats of Lil Jon & The East Side Boyz for shooting or the emotional depth of Billie Holiday’s “Weep No More” for sailing, each song adds a unique layer of meaning to the competition. The 2024 Paris Olympics are not just a celebration of athletic achievement, but also a showcase of the power of music to inspire and uplift.
