There’s something about boxers that has always captured the popular imagination. Perhaps it’s the glory of winning or the tragedy of losing, but these athletes have been a popular topic in music for decades. Here are 20 of the best songs about boxers-from classic rock to country to rap!
By the way, if you’re searching for songs about boxers, you may also like some of our other playlists, like songs about beds, songs about bubble gum, songs about fighting, songs about rings, and songs about runaway.The Boxer – Simon and Garfunkel
The Boxer by Simon and Garfunkel is a song about the hardships faced by boxers. The lyrics tell the story of a boxer who has been knocked down time and time again but keeps getting back up. Despite the odds being against him, he never gives up. The song speaks to the determination and resilience of people who have to fight for everything they have. It is an inspirational song that speaks to the human spirit. Simon and Garfunkel are two of the most popular folk singers of all time, and The Boxer is one of their most famous songs. The song has been covered by many artists over the years, and it remains an iconic anthem of hope and perseverance.
Boxers – Morrissey
The song “Boxers” by Morrissey is a tribute to the determined and resilient spirit of the boxer breed of dog. The lyrics describe the strength and power of the boxer, as well as the stubbornness and tenacity that often result in the dog’s success in the ring. In addition, the song also highlights the loyalty and affection that boxers are known for, making them loyal and loving companions. Ultimately, “Boxers” is a touching ode to a breed of dog that has much to offer both in and out of the ring.
Hurricane – Bob Dylan
The song Hurricane, written and performed by Bob Dylan, tells the story of the falsely accused middleweight boxer Rubin “Hurricane” Carter. The song brings awareness to the racism that was prevalent in the United States at the time and Carter’s wrongful imprisonment. Dylan wrote the song after reading Carter’s autobiography, The 16th Round. He was moved by Carter’s story and wanted to raise awareness about his situation. The song was released in 1975 and became a top 40 hit. It helped to bring attention to Carter’s case and led to his eventual release from prison.
The Hitter – Bruce Springsteen
The Hitter is a song by Bruce Springsteen about the hard life of a professional boxer. The song paints a picture of a boxer who has been beaten down by years of tough fights and harsh training. Despite his struggles, the boxer keeps getting back up and swinging for the fences. The song reflects the boxer’s determination to keep fighting, even when the odds are stacked against him. The Hitter is an uplifting song that celebrates the human spirit and the will to never give up. It is an inspiring anthem for anyone who has ever faced adversity.
Boxing – Ben Folds Five
Ben Folds Five’s song “Boxing” is a haunting ballad about the brutal sport of boxing. The lyrics describe the physical and emotional toll that the sport can take on its participants. The narrator begins by describing the scene at a boxing match, with the crowd cheering and the fighters sweating. He then shifts to focus on the fighters themselves, painting a picture of two men who are “bruised and battered.” Despite the violence of the sport, the narrator notes that there is a “grace” to the way that the fighters move.
Who Killed Davey Moore – Bob Dylan
“Who killed Davey Moore?” is a song written by Bob Dylan in 1963, which is about the death of boxer Davey Moore. The song is written in the form of a conversation between Moore’s manager and widow, in which they discuss who is to blame for his death. Moore’s manager blames the referee, while his widow blames the audience. However, in the end, it is clear that Dylan believes that there is no one person to blame for Moore’s death, as boxing is a sport that inherently puts its participants in danger. “Who killed Davey Moore?” is a powerful song that highlights the dangers of boxing and leaves its listeners with much to ponder.
King Joe, Part 1 – Count Basie
Count Basie’s “King Joe, Part 1” is a song about boxers. The lyrics tell the story of two boxers, Joe Louis and Max Schmeling, who fought each other twice in the 1930s. The first fight, which took place in 1936, was won by Louis. The second fight, which took place in 1938, was won by Schmeling. The song describes the two fighters as “king[s] of the ring” and “champion[s] of their time.” It also compares the two men to chess players, saying that they “played a game of chess with punches and jabs.” In the end, the song declares that Louis is the “true king” of boxing because he won the second fight.
Boom Boom Mancini – Warren Zevon
Boom Boom Mancini is a song about boxer Ray “Boom Boom” Mancini, who gained notoriety in the early 1980s for his boxing matches. The song was written by Warren Zevon and released on his 1987 album Sentimental Hygiene. The song paints a picture of Mancini as a tough boxer who is willing to put up a good fight. However, it also acknowledges the dark side of boxing, with references to the death of Mancini’s opponent Duk Koo Kim in 1982. Despite the tragic undertones, the song is an upbeat and catchy tune that has become a favorite among Zevon’s fans.
I Think I Can Beat Mike Tyson – DJ Jazzy Jeff and The Fresh Prince
DJ Jazzy Jeff and The Fresh Prince’s “I Think I Can Beat Mike Tyson” is a song about the sport of boxing. In the song, the duo braggingly talks about how they can defeat the world’s greatest boxer, Mike Tyson. They make several references to specific boxing moves and techniques, showing that they have a great understanding of the sport. While the song is clearly meant to be taken lightly, it still offers an intriguing look at the world of boxing.
Black Superman – Johnny Wakelin & the Kinshasa Band
Black Superman by Johnny Wakelin & The Kinshasa Band is a song about the great boxer Muhammad Ali. The song was released in 1975, shortly after Ali had defeated George Foreman in the “Rumble in the Jungle” fight. The song celebrates Ali’s achievements in the ring and pays tribute to his status as a global icon. The lyrics describe Ali as a “black Superman” who can “float like a butterfly and sting like a bee.” The song also references Ali’s famous catchphrase, “I am the greatest.” Black Superman is an uplifting and inspiring song that celebrates one of the world’s most iconic athletes.
Eye of the Tiger – Survivor
Eye of the Tiger is a song by the American rock band Survivor. It was released as a single from their album of the same name and gained widespread fame after being used as the theme song for the film Rocky III. The song is about boxers, specifically about the need to overcome adversity and emerge victorious. The lyrics encourage the listener to never give up, even when the odds seem insurmountable. The song has an upbeat tempo and inspirational message, which has helped to make it one of the most popular sports anthems of all time. In addition to being used in Rocky III, Eye of the Tiger has been featured in a number of other films and television shows over the years. It remains one of Survivor’s most iconic and best-loved songs.
Thunderstruck – AC/DC
AC/DC’s song “Thunderstruck” is about boxer Marco Antonio Barrera. The song was released in 1995 on the album Ballbreaker. Barrera was a world champion boxer in the junior lightweight and featherweight divisions. He retired in 2011 with a record of 67-7. “Thunderstruck” is an upbeat rock song with heavy guitar riffs. The lyrics describe how Barrera “came like a thunderbolt” and quickly rose to prominence in the boxing world. The song also mentions some of Barrera’s most famous fights, including his rematch with Erik Morales. “Thunderstruck” is a tribute to Barrera’s achievements in the ring, and it remains one of AC/DC’s most popular songs.
Song for Sonny Liston – Mark Knopfler
Mark Knopfler’s “Song for Sonny Liston” is a tribute to one of the most famed boxers of all time. The song tells the story of Liston’s life, from his humble beginnings to his eventual downfall. Despite his successes in the ring, Liston was a troubled man who struggled with addiction and violence. In the end, he was found dead in his Las Vegas home, seemingly forgotten by the world. However, through Knopfler’s song, Liston is remembered as a complex and fascinating figure. The song captures both the tragedy and the beauty of his life, ultimately celebrating his legacy as one of the greatest boxers of all time.
All I Do Is Win – DJ Khaled
All I Do Is Win is a song by DJ Khaled featuring T-Pain, Ludacris, Snoop Dogg, and Rick Ross. The song was released in 2010 as the lead single from DJ Khaled’s fourth studio album, Victory (2010). All I Do Is Win is a hip hop and pop song that samples the 1979 disco hit “You’re the Best” by Joe Esposito. The song peaked at number 24 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and was certified double platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
The Champ Is Here – Lupe Fiasco
“The Champ Is Here” is a song by Lupe Fiasco, and it’s all about boxers. In the song, Lupe paints a picture of a boxer who is on the verge of becoming a champion. He describes the boxer’s dedication to his craft, and how he always gives 100% in the ring. The song also touches on the boxer’s struggles, and how he has to keep getting back up despite being knocked down. In the end, the boxer is victorious, and Lupe celebrates his success. “The Champ Is Here” is an inspirational song that will motivate anyone who hears it.
Lose Yourself – Eminem
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“Lose Yourself” is a song by American rapper Eminem from the soundtrack to the 2002 film 8 Mile. The song was written by Eminem and produced by Eminem along with frequent collaborator Jeff Bass. “Lose Yourself” received critical acclaim, with many critics praising Eminem’s rapping abilities and calling it one of the best hip hop songs of all time. The song won the Academy Award for Best Original Song, making Eminem the first rapper to ever win an Oscar. “Lose Yourself” has also been ranked as one of the greatest songs of all time by multiple publications.
All of the Lights – Kanye West
All of the Lights is a song by Kanye West that was released in 2010. The song is about boxer Muhammad Ali and his wife, Lonnie Ali. The song features Ali’s daughter, Laila Ali, and son, boxing champion Muhammad Ali Jr. The song talks about how the lights shine brightest on those who fight for what they believe in. It also talks about how boxers are some of the most misunderstood people in the world. The song ends with a voicemail from Muhammad Ali himself. All of the Lights is a powerful and moving song that highlights the strength and determination of Muhammad Ali.
Mama Said Knock You Out – LL Cool J
LL Cool J’s hit song “Mama Said Knock You Out” is a hugely popular track that celebrates the sport of boxing. The song includes lyrics that reference many famous boxers, such as Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier. The track also contains a number of references to boxing equipment, such as gloves and mouthguards. In addition to its popularity with boxing fans, the song has also been used by a number of professional boxers as their entrance music. boxers such as Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather have both used the track as they made their way to the ring. Consequently, it is clear that “Mama Said Knock You Out” is a song that is strongly associated with the world of boxing.
Hurricane – Bob Dylan
The song Hurricane is a protest song by Bob Dylan, written about the imprisonment of Rubin “Hurricane” Carter. The song was stem from when Dylan saw a television news report on Carter’s wrongful imprisonment and was moved to write a song calling for his release. The subject of the song is the fastest heavyweight boxer in history during the 1960s, Rubin “Hurricane” Carter, who was wrongfully convicted of a triple murder in a New Jersey bar in 1966.
We Will Rock You – Queen
“We Will Rock You” is a song by the British rock band Queen. It was released on their album News of the World in 1977. The song is about a group of rebel fighters in a dystopian future who are fighting against an oppressive regime. The lyrics are written from the perspective of the rebels, and they express defiance and determination in the face of adversity. The song’s title is derived from its chorus, which includes the line “We will rock you / We will rock you.” The song has become an anthem for many sporting events, and it has been used in political campaigns and protests around the world.
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