Are you preparing for the Breeders’ Cup 2023, which is just around the corner? Let’s do a checklist to find out whether or not you have everything.

Way to watch the race? – Check

A betting strategy? – Check.

A fashionable outfit? – Check.

Food and cocktails? – Check.

A list of the contenders? – Click here to find them all.

Something is missing, right? Of course! The ultimate playlist that will get you in the right mindset for the races. If you are by any chance not hyped enough for this year’s Breeders’ Cup, choosing the right songs can help you.

We’ve made a selection of some of the best songs that might not be directly connected to horse racing as a sport, but they are great for setting you in the right mindset. 

“Born to Run” – Bruce Springsteen

There’s no better way to kick off your Breeders’ Cup playlist than with “Born to Run” by The Boss himself, Bruce Springsteen. 

This song captures the spirit of horse racing, the anticipation of the starting gate, and the adrenaline rush of the race. As you listen to Springsteen’s raspy vocals, you’ll find yourself bursting with excitement to witness the fast-paced action at the races.

“Run for the Roses” – Dan Fogelberg

Yes, yes, we know that this might be a song that reminds you of the Kentucky Derby, but there is nothing wrong here! After all, it is all about the horse racing spirit.

If you are in the mood for an emotional song that paints a perfect picture of life and horses, then this is the one you should include in your playlist. This isn’t the song that will hype you up about the race, but it has a much deeper emotional effect.

The tender lyrics and soothing melody make it the perfect song that you should listen to while browsing for the best odds. As you savor the excitement of the Breeders’ Cup, Fogelberg’s song will remind you of the rich history and traditions of horse racing.

“Eye of the Tiger” – Survivor

Now let’s include some heart-pumping action that will give you enough energy to think you can become a Breeders’ Cup champion yourself.

Before you place your bets and cheer for your chosen steed, you need a dose of motivation. 

“Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor is the quintessential pump-up song. Its powerful beat and rousing lyrics will get your heart racing and your spirits soaring. You’ll feel like a champion, ready to conquer the world, or at least the betting window.

“Horse with No Name” – America

Here we have an iconic song that always reminds us of horse racing. It is written by Dewey Bunnell, and it is without a doubt the brand’s first and most successful single. No wonder it topped the charts in Canada and the United States.

With that said, this song might not be directly connected to horse racing, but there is something about the melody, lyrics, and name of the song that always reminds us of the exciting action at the races. Which is why we decided to include it in our Breeders’ Cup Playlist.

As you take in the ambiance of the event, this song’s mellow tones will serve as a musical backdrop to your day of horseplay.

“The Winner Takes It All” – ABBA

Let’s talk about winning, which is what horse racing is about. We know that this song doesn’t have anything to do with horse racing as a sport, but at the same time, it does.

Winning is a big part of horse racing, whether you are a jockey, trainer, or a casual horse racing fan who placed a bet on a horse.

“The Winner Takes it All” is a single recorded by Swedish pop group ABBA that reached No.1 in several countries.

With its emotive lyrics and infectious melody, it captures the essence of competition and the thrill of emerging victorious.