Survivor's iconic anthem Eye of the Tiger, from the Rocky III soundtrack, has been named the nation's ultimate walk-out song, pipping three Queen hits to the top spot. The research, conducted by Compare the Market as Principal Partner of The Hundred, surveyed 1,500 Brits to determine which track they would most likely choose to walk out to at a sporting event.
Top 10 Walk-Out Tracks
The top 10 list is dominated by classic rock and power anthems. Queen claims three spots: We Are the Champions at second, Don't Stop Me Now at third, and We Will Rock You at fourth. Other entries include Tina Turner's Simply the Best (fifth), AC/DC's Thunderstruck (sixth), The White Stripes' Seven Nation Army (seventh), Europe's The Final Countdown (eighth), Journey's Don't Stop Believin' (ninth), and Fatboy Slim's Right Here, Right Now (tenth).
Music Triggers Core Memories
The survey also highlights the profound connection between music and memory. Three-quarters (75%) of Brits say a particular song instantly transports them to a specific moment in their lives. Pop is the genre most likely to trigger core memories (48%), followed by rock (31%) and summer dance anthems (20%). Six in ten (59%) of those say this happens 'often' or 'all the time'. Music is the second most likely trigger for reliving a memory (47%), just behind photographs (55%).
Beyond reminiscing, 88% of respondents believe music positively impacts their mood, enhances shared experiences with friends or family (77%), and increases confidence or prepares them for important moments (69%). Live sporting events rank among the fondest memories for 18% of Brits, beaten only by the birth of a child, their wedding, or a special holiday, and surpassing graduation or milestone birthdays.
Music Enhances Live Sports
With in-stadium entertainment becoming integral to the live sports experience, over half (52%) of Brits say hearing music is important for maximizing enjoyment of live sport. Tom Wallis, Chief Customer Officer at Compare the Market, said: "As proud Principal Partner of The Hundred, we know first-hand how much music and entertainment adds to the buzz of a big match day. The research shows just how deeply music and memories are intertwined for Brits, and there's no better place to see that in action than a packed ground over the summer."
To celebrate The Hundred's return, Compare the Market's mascot Aleksandr led players Phil Salt, Liv Barnes, and Sophie Mundo from Abbey Road to Lord's, the home of England cricket. The price comparison website will bring entertainment to grounds across the country all summer, including t-shirt cannons, fan competitions, and appearances from Aleksandr and Sergei.
Phil Salt, England Men's player and captain of the Welsh Fire, commented: "Music is such an integral part of any live sporting event, but in particular The Hundred. Whether that's walking out to bat, especially when you're first up, or the atmosphere the crowd generates, there's nothing quite like it. It's not just when you're out on the field. It's a huge part of the dressing room, bringing everyone together as a team and inspiring them." Salt added that he is a fan of indie-rock band Blossoms and will add some of their tunes to the Welsh Fire pre-match playlist.
