We can all agree that there is something magical about the moment right before a big horse race begins. The crowds are locked in, waving their bets, the air thick with anticipation, and then a familiar tune drifts through the speakers.
If you are a true horse racing fan, then you already know that this is more than just a race. Horse racing has never been only about the horses running around the track. It’s more about the experience, the fashion, the music, the betting, and the overall excitement you get by watching a race.
However, the main focus is on the experience. So, what makes a good experience when you already have one big spectacle like a race? Well, the next thing is good food and some music. Music and horse racing have always had a relationship that’s deeper than it seems at first glance.
The Soundtrack Before the Action
Music in horse racing has a special place. It is either before or after the race. When the horses are running, you can only hear the thunder from the hooves and the crowd cheering.
Let’s take the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs. This is one of the most iconic horse racing events in the world, and over the years, it has created a special connection with music. So, you are there, the sun is warm, you are sipping on a mint julep, and you are browsing TwinSpires to place a last-minute bet with their expert predictions.
The anticipation grows, and suddenly, you hear the iconic “Call to Post” trumpet, and your heart starts beating faster. This has been the unofficial heartbeat of horse racing in America since the 19th century.
This signals the horses and their riders to the starting gate, and for the audience, it announces that the thrill is about to start.
But the music doesn’t stop there. At the Kentucky Derby, tens of thousands of voices sing along to “My Old Kentucky Home,” which is usually played after the race. Other horse racing events even organize live music events to celebrate the champion after the race.
Music as Tradition In Horse Racing
Horse racing isn’t like the Super Bowl. We cannot expect new performers every year. Plus, horse racing events are more sophisticated and low-key, but this doesn’t mean that there is no music.
Horse racing is more tied to traditions. Certain songs have represented horse racing events for years, and they are well embedded in their tradition. We can often hear Dan Fogelberg’s “Run for the Roses ” and “Sweet Caroline” over at the Royal Ascot and Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations, and many other traditional songs that represent the history and tradition behind each of these events.
Popular Songs in the Horse Racing Industry
Some horse racing events even have their own unofficial anthems. At Monmouth Park’s Haskell Invitational, you can hear Bruce Springsteen’s “Born to Run” as horses enter the post parade. Then we have the “Run for the Roses” at the Kentucky Derby, and some tracks even play George Jones’s “The Race is On,” just to get people into the right mood and pump some adrenaline before the race even starts.
But what makes these songs special? Well, it’s all about their ability to plug into memory. Horse racing fans gather for such events once every year, and they don’t expect anything different, like a new performer. They are looking for the same experience that has been around for decades.
In other words, they represent the racing spirit and the tradition of the sport, which is why we cannot argue for some new songs, right?
Live Music and Modern Festival Vibes
Now, let’s talk about live music events on Derby Days. Yes, they are less popular compared to other sports, but some horse racing events organize carnival days before the main event, which include live concerts, DJ sets, and a full festival atmosphere.
These days are only about celebrating the big upcoming event and getting people into the right mood. They build anticipation, plus horse racing is a 2-minute event, and people want more entertainment, which is the main reason why some of the top horse racing festivals were invented.
How Music Shapes the Crowd
We can all agree that music has the power to move crowds. How? Well, it dives into our emotions, and that’s really powerful. Slow music can set the mood during pre-race parades and build anticipation, while fan anthems can build excitement as the gates open or during the celebration phase.
Horse racing has always been about country and rock music. We can rarely hear R&B or pop songs at such events, and there is a good reason for that.
The sport places incredible value on history and tradition, which is why most events focus on songs that were released decades ago. With that said, it’s safe to say that the sport wouldn’t be the same without music, and let’s hope that this will continue the same way into the future.
