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Our 10 Classic Rock Songs to play at Sporting Events article presents a list of songs that we think might be helpful to blast through those stadium speakers. Whether it’s a small little league baseball game, over 40 league team, or any other sort of sporting event that you’re looking to play some music to get your team pumped, these 10 songs will definitely do the job. Many of the songs on this list have been played for years in stadiums and still are played. We tried to combine some classics that everyone knows along with some original ideas that no one might have thought about. This one is fun.
# 10 – Centerfield – John Fogerty
Why not start with an all-time classic that was written about what many believe is the greatest game in world history? “Centerfield” is an iconic rock song written and performed by John Fogerty, the former frontman of Creedence Clearwater Revival. Released in 1985, the song serves as the title track of Fogerty’s third solo studio album, “Centerfield.” It has since become a classic anthem, celebrated for its catchy melody and its celebration of America’s favorite pastime, baseball.
Recorded in 1984, “Centerfield” was produced by John Fogerty himself. The song was released as a single in January 1985 and quickly gained popularity, reaching No. 44 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its success was also propelled by its association with Major League Baseball, as the song became a fixture at baseball stadiums across the United States.
“Centerfield” is a lively and upbeat track that celebrates the joy of playing baseball. It features Fogerty’s distinctive raspy vocals, and the lyrics convey a sense of nostalgia for the game, invoking images of the baseball diamond and the excitement of being the centerfielder. The song’s driving rhythm and twangy guitar riffs capture the essence of rock and roll and the spirit of the sport.
# 9 – Crazy Train – Ozzy Osbourne
Ozzy Osbourne’s “Crazy Train<” is another classic song that’s often played at sporting events around the world. The lyrics do not drive the song use at arenas and stadiums. It’s that iconic Randy Rhodes guitar riff, the laugh, the bass, the drums, the chord changes, the entire feel of the song that makes you jump out of your seat and root for your team.
“Crazy Train” was recorded by Ozzy Osbourne and released in 1980 as the lead single from his debut solo album, “Blizzard of Ozz.” Produced by Bob Daisley and Lee Kerslake, the song marked Osbourne’s departure from Black Sabbath and his first venture into a solo career. “Blizzard of Ozz” was recorded at Ridge Farm Studio in Surrey, England, with Randy Rhoads on guitar, Bob Daisley on bass, and Lee Kerslake on drums, forming the core lineup for the album.
# 8 – Welcome to the Jungle – Guns N’ Roses
This is a common one, but it’s so good we could not keep it off the list. “Welcome to the Jungle” is a classic rock song by the American band Guns N’ Roses. It was released as the second single from their debut album, “Appetite for Destruction,” in 1987. Recorded at Rumbo Studios in Canoga Park, California, and produced by Mike Clink, the song is loved by everyone. It is perfect to be played at all sports events because this one gets a crowd pumped.
# 7 – Driving Wheel – Foghat
We can’t keep one of our favorite bands on this list.”Driving Wheel” is a blues-rock song by the British-American rock band Foghat. It was released as a track on their 1976 album “Night Shift.” The song was recorded at Criteria Studios in Miami, Florida, and produced by Dan Hartman. Foghat, known for their energetic live performances and bluesy rock sound, featured Lonesome Dave Peverett on vocals and guitar, Rod Price on lead guitar, Craig MacGregor on bass, and Roger Earl on drums.
“Driving Wheel” showcases Foghat’s trademark blues-infused rock sound and their ability to deliver catchy, guitar-driven tunes. Lonesome Dave Peverett’s raspy vocals and Rod Price’s slide guitar work give the song a gritty and soulful quality, which is characteristic of Foghat’s style. This one is perfect.
# 6 – Out To Get You – Grand Funk Railroad
This is the real sleeper on this list as far as popularity. It’s not a really well-known song, but boy does this one rock. The song is released on Grand Funk Railroads’ 1976 album Good Singin’ Good Playing. It’s an instrumental with some sparse singing in between the verses. The song is written by Don Brewer and produced by Frank Zappa who also played the guitar solo on this killer track.
# 5 – Immigrant Song – Led Zeppelin
This one is fueled by easily one of the most recognized opening vocal lines in classic rock history. If it was good for Shrek it’s good enough for all of us.”Immigrant Song” is a classic rock song by the legendary British rock band Led Zeppelin. It was released in 1970 as the lead track of their third studio album, “Led Zeppelin III.” The song was recorded in May 1970 at Headley Grange, a remote country house in Hampshire, England. The album was produced by Jimmy Page, the band’s guitarist and producer extraordinaire. Led Zeppelin consisted of Robert Plant on vocals, Jimmy Page on guitar, John Paul Jones on bass and keyboards, and John Bonham on drums.
“Immigrant Song” is known for its powerful and iconic opening riff, played by Jimmy Page on a double-necked guitar. The song’s lyrics were inspired by Norse mythology and Viking imagery, with Robert Plant’s vocals invoking the imagery of a Viking expedition and their battles. Plant’s wailing vocals and the band’s energetic performance create a sense of epic adventure and power.
# 4 – All Revved Up With No Place To Go – Meat Loaf
Something about this song just screams Friday Night High School football. “All Revved Up with No Place to Go” is a classic rock song performed by Meat Loaf. It is featured on his iconic 1977 album “Bat Out of Hell,” one of the best-selling albums of all time. The album was produced by Jim Steinman and recorded at various studios, including Bearsville Studios in Woodstock, New York, and The Hit Factory in New York City. The song’s musicians include Todd Rundgren on guitar, Kasim Sulton on bass, Roy Bittan on piano and keyboards, and Max Weinberg on drums, among others.
# 3 – Stranglehold – Ted Nugent
There’s nothing like crazy Ted to get the rock and roll happening at a ball game. “Stranglehold” is a classic rock masterpiece by the American rock musician Ted Nugent. It was released in 1975 as the lead track on his self-titled debut solo album, “Ted Nugent.” The song was recorded at The Sound Pit in Atlanta, Georgia, and produced by Cliff Davies. Ted Nugent, known for his virtuosic guitar skills and powerful stage presence, performed lead vocals and lead guitar on the track. The rhythm section featured Rob Grange on bass and Cliff Davies on drums.
“Stranglehold” is celebrated for its exceptional guitar work, particularly Ted Nugent’s extended guitar solo that spans nearly eight minutes. The song’s opening riff, played with a distinctive Gibson Byrdland guitar, has become one of rock music’s most recognizable and iconic guitar riffs. Nugent’s fiery guitar work throughout the song showcases his technical prowess and his ability to create intense, bluesy rock solos.
# 2 – Godzilla – Blue Oyster Cult
Blue Oyster Cult defines the term classic rock. “Godzilla” was released in 1977 as a track on their album “Spectres.” The song was recorded at Capitol Theatre in Passaic, New Jersey, and produced by Murray Krugman and Sandy Pearlman. Blue Öyster Cult’s lineup for the album included Eric Bloom on vocals and stun guitar, Donald “Buck Dharma” Roeser on lead guitar and vocals, Allen Lanier on keyboards and rhythm guitar, Joe Bouchard on bass and vocals, and Albert Bouchard on drums and vocals.
“Godzilla” is notable for its infectious and memorable guitar riff, played by Buck Dharma, which is often likened to the sound of a stomping monster. The lyrics playfully reference the iconic Japanese movie monster Godzilla, depicting the havoc and destruction caused by the creature. Eric Bloom’s distinctive vocals and the song’s dynamic shifts in tempo contribute to its engaging and energetic quality.
# 1 – Hells Bells – AC/DC
This is the perfect song for setting up that opening kickoff. “Hells Bells” is a classic rock song by the Australian rock band AC/DC. It was released in 1980 as the opening track of their iconic album “Back in Black.” The song was recorded at Compass Point Studios in Nassau, Bahamas, and produced by Robert John “Mutt” Lange. AC/DC’s lineup for the album included Brian Johnson on vocals, Angus Young on lead guitar, Malcolm Young on rhythm guitar, Cliff Williams on bass, and Phil Rudd on drums.
The distinctive opening of “Hells Bells” features the tolling of a massive church bell, setting a somber and ominous tone. Brian Johnson’s gravelly vocals then kick in, delivering lyrics that evoke dark and foreboding imagery. The song’s driving rhythm and Angus Young’s searing guitar riffs create a sense of power and urgency, typical of AC/DC’s signature sound.
Critically, “Hells Bells” has been praised for its iconic riff, memorable lyrics, and Brian Johnson’s strong vocal performance. It has become one of AC/DC’s most recognizable and enduring tracks, often featured in their live performances and receiving heavy airplay on rock radio. “Back in Black” reached No. 4 on the Billboard 200 chart and is one of the best-selling albums of all time. We had to close it out with this one.
10 Classic Rock Songs To Play At Sporting Events article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2023
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![Rob De Luca of Spread Eagle, Sebastian Bach & UFO: 10 Albums That Changed My Life From humble East Coast origins to grandest stages worldwide, veteran bassist Rob De Luca has seen and done it all. De Luca first hit the local Boston rock and metal scene in the late 80s after meeting guitarist Paul DiBartolo, bonding over Van Halen before forming Bang. Regional success came quickly, but eventually, the members of Bang went their separate ways, with De Luca and drummer Tommi Gallo heading to NYC and hooking up with Ray West and, later, DiBartolo to form Spread Eagle. By 1990, Spread Eagle was on the fast track, with a contract through MCA Records and a self-titled debut album poised to crush skulls. But poor timing and MCA's sad indifference left Spead Eagle out in the cold despite being a hard-boiled answer to Guns N' Roses's West Coast sleaze. Spread Eagle's first chapter came to an end in '95. As for Rob De Luca, his nimble fingers and gift for melody and songwriting kept him moving forward. Soon, he found a gig with former Skid Row frontman Sebastian Bach and the legendary outfit UFO. And in 2010, after coupling up with Ray West and his cousin Rik De Luca, Spread Eagle retook flight. During a break from Spread Eagle's increasingly busy touring schedule, Rob De Luca dialed in with ClassicRockHistory.com to run through the ten albums that changed his life. But only after adding, "I made a playlist of these songs, including some I've written or co-written. Do you hear any of these albums' influence on me?" Listen here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3LWJuhDrE8JmzhsmTeIDUq 10) Gentlemen by Afghan Whigs (1993) Here's an entry that was so important to me. This may be the darkest break-up album of all time. Greg Dulli has been in many projects, but I feel Gentlemen is his zenith. Somewhat undefinable at times but always profound and honest. Listen to "Gentlemen," "Fountain and Fairfax," and "What Jail Is Like." 9) In on the Kill Taker by Fugazi (1993) By this time, I had been sucked in and spit out by the major-label record industry. Glam came and went; grunge was history, too. I was searching for new sounds. When I heard Fugazi's twin guitar approach, I knew this was what was missing. Fugazi may be considered a less polished sound than the albums above; however, once you "get it," it hits you like a ton of bricks, and there's no going back. From the moment I heard Fugazi, I went to every NYC show after. It's easily some of the best concerts of my life, and possibly my favorite bassist in Joe Lally. And their DIY ethics refused to charge us more than $5 a show! In on the Kill Taker is a powerful album demonstrated in songs such as "Smallpox Champion," "Great Cop," and "Public Witness Program." 8) Appetite for Destruction by Guns N' Roses (1987) I discovered many of these albums (sometimes long) after they were released. However, I was at the right place at the right time for this one. Steve Ostromogilsky had a Berklee College of Music lunch card and used to sneak out sandwiches for me. One day, he invited me to hang out at his place and listen to music. As we got off the train, he put Sony Walkman headphones on my ears and said, "Hey, check out this brand-new group." A song like "It's So Easy" was so different from the popular Sunset Strip sound at that time. Me and about 499 other informed rockers were lucky enough to see them on their first East Coast tour at the sold-out Paradise on Commonwealth Avenue, Boston (the same street Aerosmith started on). I saw Gn'R every tour after until I took a break when Buckethead joined. Gn'R is the band I've been lucky enough to see the most times live, almost 100! Everyone on this album is just stellar. Axl [Rose] had the tones, power, melodic sensibilities, and foresight to do what no other singer did then. Slash's playing was beyond memorable. Duff [McKagan] is one of the most underrated bassists in rock history, and learning his Appetite basslines is a masterclass. Steven [Adler] had the natural swing, and Izzy [Stradlin] was the secret weapon songwriter. Everything that's been heralded about this gem is deserved and true. Check out "It's So Easy," "Out Ta Get Me," and "Mr. Brownstone.' 7) Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd (1975) Another contender for my favorite album and band of all time. Using The Beatles machine (same recording studio, engineer, record label), Pink Floyd made what I feel is their strongest, most cohesive album (my second favorite of theirs would be Animals). This list mainly consists of bands with an instantly recognizable sound. Floyd is certainly no exception to that! This album included a solid handful of undeniable rock radio classics, bookended by two halves of the mind-blowing song "Shine on You Crazy Diamond.' That song was written about former band member and founder Syd Barrett. It would be hard to live in a world without this album. Check out "Welcome to The Machine," "Shine on You Crazy Diamond (parts 6-9),' or even better yet, listen to the whole thing in one sitting! 6) Decade by Neil Young (1977) About this time, I started playing guitar. As a beginner, it was comfortable jamming to this album because the chord changes were simple—a great "first ten years" retrospective of Neil's stunning, unique songwriting. Neil is a treasure who always writes from the heart and stands up for what's right. Check out "Southern Man," "A Man Needs a Maid," "Down by The River," and "After the Goldrush." 5) Highway to Hell by AC/DC (1979) When I heard this album, I was firmly "me." My life would be 100% focused on hard rock music forever. AC/DC are like air; they're ubiquitous. Everyone knows them and their incredible songs. However, as a young teen in Wilmington, Delaware, I only had WMMR 93.3 FM Philadelphia and a few friends to inform me about the world of Rock outside my bedroom. AC/DC had not gone mainstream, and their albums were available primarily in the USA as imports. To put things more in perspective, I only knew two people in the world who had heard of AC/DC. A friend had an import that we played in Steve Buckley's basement, which sounded ripping. When Highway to Hell was released, WMMR started spinning the title track, and I immediately bought the album, listening to it every single day after school. Then WMMR announced AC/DC was coming to the Spectrum in Philly, supporting Ted Nugent! I liked Ted but loved AC/DC, so my good friend Mick Cummins and I bought tickets, and he drove us up to the Spectrum (where we saw most of our concerts). Bon Scott was in fine form, and the band went over great. Although the crowd knew Ted better, Angus [Young] wouldn't let anyone upstage him. I'll never forget it! Unfortunately, Bon would be gone in 6 months. Check out "Walk All Over You," "Touch Too Much," "Shot Down in Flames," and "If You Want Blood (You Got It)." 4) Toys in the Attic by Aerosmith (1975) By the time I heard this, I was now in my teens. I had a childhood friend up the street, Jim Linberg (we're still good buddies). His older sister had a great album collection, including Toys in The Attic. Once I heard that groove, my taste changed. I lost interest in rock music that didn't have some sort of "swing" feel to it. I think Rocks is a slightly better Aerosmith album (and possibly my favorite album of all time), but both are perfect or very close. Check out "Uncle Salty," "Adam's Apple," "No More No More," "Round and Round," and "You See Me Crying." 3) Alive! by Kiss (1975) When I was still a little kid, I asked for Cheech and Chong's Up in Smoke album for Christmas. The entire family came over for an enormous feast, and I dropped the needle. When my mother heard the content, she turned off the album and said I had to exchange it. My mom was cool, but I was young and knew much more about life than she suspected. Anyway, the next day, she drove me back to the store. In the music section, promoted on an "endcap" was a Kiss Alive! display. I had never heard of Kiss, but that cover picture told me I had to have it! My first foray into hard rock. Check out “Strutter.” I went through my Kiss phase very quickly, I believe in a matter of months because I discovered the previous entry, Aerosmith's Toys in the Attic. 2) Honky Chateau by Elton John (1972) When I was a wee lad, my parents bought a used Volkswagen camper van from my uncle Ozzie. My favorite Elton John album is Yellow Brick Road, but Honky Chateau is great and easily one of his best. It sent me down a lifelong rabbit hole of loving everything about the 1970s partnership between Elton and lyricist Bernie Taupin. The simple beauty of voice, the master songwriting, the perfect backing band, the clear, unobtrusive recordings, and always Bernie's incredible lyrics. The day this album was released, Elton became an unstoppable force that conquered the music industry. Check out "Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters" and "Rocket Man." 1) Sergeant Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band by The Beatles (1967) Another tape that was included in the VW Camper. The van had a bunch of music tapes, and one was Sgt Pepper. I was too young to understand the sophistication of the music, but that was one of the many skills of The Beatles. They attracted listeners at every level, even little kids. I still feel that immediate connection to Sgt Pepper; now, I hear so much more. It's an album that changed the world and the world of music. Check out "Lucy in The Sky with Diamonds," "A Day In The Life," and "Fixing a Hole."](http://www.classicrockhistory.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Shutterstock_1815495569-1-300x200.jpg)
Todd Rundgren produced Bat Out of Hell. He also bankrolled the production process. If it weren’t for him, the album would never have happened.
We are aware that Todd Rundgren produced Bat Out Of Hell. We have written about it many times on the site. We have published plenty of seperate articles on Todd Rundgren and Meat Loaf. We are a history site. I brought that albnum in 1977 when it first came out and saw it in Sam Goodys Record store in the Smith Haven Mall. Thanks for coming to the site my friend.