“Back In the U.S.S.R. [Live]” by Billy Joel
This will be the second time Russia has hosted the Olympics. The 1980 Summer Games were held in Moscow, but were famously boycotted by 65 countries due to the Soviet Union’s war with Afghanistan. However, 2014 seems to be the year of a successful Olympiad. Let Billy Joel’s cover of the Beatles’ classic help celebrate the games being “back in the U.S.S.R.”
“Gonna Fly Now (Theme from ‘Rocky’)” by Bill Conti
When discussing great American athletes, everyone from Jackie Robinson to Michael Phelps comes to mind. However, one great American competitor shouldn’t be forgotten: Rocky Balboa. Even though he’s fictional, Rocky is a perfect example of America’s drive to win. On top of that, he’s got an anthem, horn-led theme song that goes along with the Olympic mindset.
“Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger” by Daft Punk
The primary lyrics for Daft Punk’s 2001 electronic jam are quite simple: “Work it harder, make it better, do it faster, makes us stronger.” These lyrics and building tempo of the track mirror the process of training and honing your skills, something that Olympic athletes know a lot about.
“Mother Russia” by Iron Maiden
If you’ve seen Olympics ceremonies in the past, host countries often use the opportunity to show off their culture to the rest of the world. As viewers, it’s an amazing opportunity to leave our country’s cultural bubble and learn about other places. Let this riff-heavy cut guide you as you absorb Russia’s culture during the next month.
To listen to our Olympic Playlist on Spotify, click here.
Follow John Connor Coulston on Twitter at @JCCoulston.
