Ah, the Kentucky Derby, the most exciting two minutes in sports! The horses, the hats, the mint juleps – it’s a race like no other. 

But let’s face it, what’s a party without some great music? 

The biggest race in the world is not all about horse racing. In fact, the Kentucky Derby Festival is just the right place to get you in the right mood, especially with the right music.

But how to choose the right playlist for the Kentucky Derby?

That’s where we come in. As your trusty music experts, we’ve scoured the internet and dug through our personal library to come up with a list of the top songs to add to your Kentucky Derby music playlist. 

So put on your fancy pants and find the best songs to put on while you are browsing the 2023 Kentucky Deby odds by Twinspires.com.

Best Songs to Add to Your Kentucky Derby Playlist

“My Old Kentucky Home” by Stephen Foster

Let us begin with a classic. “My Old Kentucky Home” is Kentucky’s official state song, and it has been performed during the Kentucky Derby since 1921. It’s lovely, mellow music that’s ideal for setting the tone and getting everyone in a nostalgic, reflective mindset. Nonetheless, since the song is quite old it has been involved in some controversy recently.

“Run for the Roses” by Dan Fogelberg 

“Run for the Roses,” written expressly for the Kentucky Derby, is a beautiful ballad that captures the thrill and drama of the race. The lyrics are rich in imagery and poetic language, wonderfully capturing the majesty and beauty of thoroughbred horses.

“Horse with No Name” by America Okay

Well, technically, this one isn’t about horses or horse racing, but it has the word “horse” in the title, so that counts, right? 

Furthermore, it is a famous song that everyone knows and loves. The relaxed atmosphere is ideal for a languid afternoon of sipping mint juleps and seeing the gorgeous Kentucky surroundings.

“The Gambler” by Kenny Rogers 

Let’s face it, the Kentucky Derby is all about betting. Everyone wants to bet on the winning horse and walk away with a large sum of money. 

So, why not channel that spirit with a great gambling song? “The Gambler” is a charming tune that will have everyone singing along and feeling fortunate.

“Thunder Road” by Bruce Springsteen

This may appear to be an unexpected decision but bear with me. “Thunder Road” is all about the rush of adventure and the excitement of the open road. And what could be more exciting than horse racing? It also has a wonderful tempo and enticing lyrics that will get everyone up and dancing.

“Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor Okay 

So maybe this one is a bit of a stretch, but hear me out. The Kentucky Derby is all about the thrill of the competition and the fierce determination to win. And what song captures that spirit better than “Eye of the Tiger”? It’s a classic pump-up song that’s sure to get everyone in a competitive mood.

“Jockey Full of Bourbon” by Tom Waits

This bluesy, drunken song is ideal for getting the party started at your Kentucky Derby celebration. It has a gritty, dark tone that is ideal for a late-night dance party following the race. Plus, the lyrics are full of clever wordplay and sly references that are sure to impress all your music-savvy guests.

Final Words

Finally, no Kentucky Derby celebration is complete without a great music playlist. This selection has you covered whether you’re looking for vintage melodies that encapsulate the spirit of the race or recent hits that will get everyone dancing. It is a great playlist that will get you warmed up before the Kentucky Derby Festival.

So, throw on your best hat, grab a mint julep, and get ready for the most exciting two minutes in sports. With these great songs on your playlist, your Kentucky Derby celebration will be a smashing success!