Kelsea Brockmeier’s Ultimate Pre-show Playlist
What songs get you in the mood to score blue ribbons? Check out Kelsea’s list and leave your own suggestions in the comments section below.
From Kelsea:
Finding good songs to listen to before a horse show can be a real challenge. My friends typically listen to a lot of Bright Eyes (YouTube him–most songs are literally three minutes of him weeping) and as much as I appreciate their musical taste, it does not exactly put the fire in my heart. Sometimes, we all end up in a position where the last thing on the radio before we head to the show ring is something about a breakup or dying or whatever. While these are often lovely songs, weeping your way through your upward transitions does not typically put you in the ribbons.
Lucky for you, Horse Nation, I have compiled some of my favorite pre-show hype songs for your enjoyment. Without further ado, here is Kelsea’s Pre-show Playlist!
1. “Bartholomew” – The Silent Comedy
I originally saw this song on the trailer for Hatfields and McCoys. I was too disgusted to watch the show (THEY MURDERED THE INNOCENT PUPPY!), but the song is an instant classic.
2. “The Second Coming” – Juelz Santana
This song is pretty cool, with a sick beat and lyrics about resilience and strength. It is from a Nike commercial, making this Nike’s one and only significant contribution to equestrian sport (lest we forget their attempt to design tall boots).
3. “Hells Bells” – AC/DC
Does this one even require an explanation? It’s been a staple of athletic events since my mother was in high school. If it’s survived 30 years, it deserves a spot on the list.
4. “Shake It Out” – Florence and the Machine
This is my go-to happy song. It makes one want to sing and dance and not vomit or pee themselves. If you are a nervous rider, listen to this one!
5. “Change” – Taylor Swift
I know not everyone is a big fan of T-Swizzle, but this one is pretty fitting for riding. It’s about patience and banging on the walls until they finally come down. Definitely inspiring.
I hope you enjoyed my suggestions and maybe you’ll even download some to your own equestrian playlist. Go listen and go riding!
- Send an email to wylie, the author of this post at wylie@horsenation.com
BAWHAHAHA “While these are often lovely songs, weeping your way through your upward transitions does not typically put you in the ribbons.” made me snort my coffee!
My top 5 pre-show jams: 1. Eminem’s “Lose Yourself” (obviously) 2. Survivor’s “Eye of the Tiger” (classic) 3. TV on the Radio’s “Wolf Like Me” 4. Saul William’s “List of Demands” 5. Rage Against the Machine “Killing in the Name”
I’m an eventer so for me a good pre-show song is Remember the Name by Fort Minor. Sums up the sport pretty well and has a fun upbeat.
I think this sums up every equestrian discipline
We use it for our reining riders as well.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K83AnpJNFx8&sns=em Love this, not sure if it worked last time
All good suggestions! I kept my Nicki Minaj choices to myself due to iffy language but Fly is good for sure. Remember the Name is amazing as well, and a little Rage Against The Machine always does the trick!
I like your style, Wylie! My top five are “For those about to rock” by AC/DC, “Today” by Smashing Pumpkins, “Little Secrets” by Passion Pit, “Wavin’ Flag” by K’naan, and “Yoshimi Battels the Pink Robots” by the Flaming Lips.
“Yoshimi”!! That should’ve made the list. I got to be a mouse in a FL show once and I consider it pretty much the high point of my entire life.
Bubba Sparxxx- Deliverance
Here and Now- Aceyalone
No One- Alicia Keys
Heaven at Nite- Kid Cudi
What You Know- Two Door Cinema Club
20 Years- The Civil Wars
You and Me- DMB
Little Talks- Of Monsters & Men
Anything by Mumford & Sons
… Not necessarily in that order.
Mine is Let it Rock by Kevin Rudolf ft. Lil’ Wayne. Because I need to feel that when I go in the show ring, I am going to BRING IT