Tennis has been a popular sport for centuries, with its roots dating back to 12th-century France. The sport has not only captured the attention of athletes and sports enthusiasts but also of musicians and artists. Tennis has inspired a variety of music genres, from pop to punk rock, and has been referenced in many popular songs over the years. These songs, with their catchy beats and lyrics, have celebrated the sport’s competitive and playful nature, as well as its colorful personalities and rivalries. In this article, we’ll explore the top 20 songs about tennis, covering a diverse range of musical styles and themes. From the playful and whimsical to the hard-hitting and rebellious, these songs showcase the many ways in which tennis has inspired and influenced the world of music. Whether you’re a hardcore tennis fan or simply appreciate a good tune, these songs are sure to entertain and inspire. So let’s dive in and explore the world of music inspired by the sport of tennis.
1. “Tennis Court” by Lorde
The song “Tennis Court” by Lorde is a catchy and upbeat electro-pop track with a driving beat and ethereal vocals. Released in 2013, the song features a minimalist production style with sparse, pulsing synths, a thumping bassline, and Lorde’s signature whispery vocal delivery. The lyrics of the song speak to the pressures and expectations that come with fame, particularly as a young woman in the music industry. Lorde’s evocative and poetic lyrics paint a picture of a world where success is measured by wealth and status, and where the struggle to maintain a sense of self in the face of these pressures is a constant battle. Despite the weighty subject matter, the song is undeniably catchy, with a hooky chorus and a sense of energy and urgency that makes it an instant classic of the electro-pop genre.
2. “Game Set And Match” by The Herbaliser
“Game Set And Match” by The Herbaliser is a funky and jazzy instrumental track that blends elements of hip hop, jazz, and soul. The song features a dynamic arrangement of horns, funky basslines, and crisp drum breaks, creating a lively and energetic groove. Released in 1997, the song captures the essence of 90s hip hop and jazz fusion, with a playful and upbeat vibe that is sure to get listeners moving. The Herbaliser’s masterful production skills shine through in the track, with intricate arrangements and attention to detail creating a rich and layered sound. The absence of vocals allows the instrumental elements to take center stage, showcasing the band’s impressive musical chops and creating a sense of depth and complexity. Overall, “Game Set And Match” is a joyous and infectious track that captures the spirit of 90s jazz and hip hop fusion.
3. “Tennis Ball” by Malibu Max
“Tennis Ball” by Malibu Max is a high-energy rap track with a catchy beat and fast-paced flow. The song features a hard-hitting trap-style production with heavy bass, crisp snares, and high-pitched synths, creating a sense of urgency and intensity. Released in 2019, the song’s lyrics focus on the themes of wealth, success, and luxury, with Malibu Max boasting about his expensive tastes and high-end lifestyle. The use of tennis ball imagery throughout the song creates a sense of playfulness and lightness, offsetting the aggressive tone of the lyrics. Malibu Max’s flow is rapid and precise, showcasing his skills as a rapper and adding to the song’s sense of momentum and energy. Overall, “Tennis Ball” is a fun and lively track that combines trap, rap, and pop influences to create a memorable and catchy banger.
4. “All Love” by Yung Ca$h
“All Love” by Yung Ca$h is an upbeat and feel-good rap track with a smooth and melodic vibe. Released in 2020, the song features a bouncy production with a simple drum beat, wavy synths, and a catchy hook that is sure to get stuck in your head. The lyrics of the song focus on themes of love and positivity, with Yung Ca$h spreading a message of hope and encouragement to his listeners. The rapper’s laid-back flow and charming personality make the song an easy listen, with a sense of warmth and authenticity that is infectious. The track’s upbeat and sunny disposition is perfect for a summer playlist, with a vibe that is both uplifting and relaxing. Overall, “All Love” is a charming and catchy rap track that combines smooth melodies with positive lyrics, creating a sense of joy and optimism that is hard to resist.
5. “Playing Tennis” by Austin Prince
“Playing Tennis” by Austin Prince is a dreamy and atmospheric indie pop track with a nostalgic and introspective vibe. Released in 2017, the song features a lush and layered production with shimmering guitars, a slow and steady drumbeat, and hauntingly beautiful vocal harmonies. The lyrics of the song are reflective and introspective, exploring themes of loss and regret as the singer reminisces about past memories. Austin Prince’s ethereal vocals convey a sense of vulnerability and emotion, adding to the song’s haunting and dreamy quality. The track’s melancholic yet soothing sound makes it a perfect fit for a rainy day playlist, with a vibe that is both calming and cathartic. Overall, “Playing Tennis” is a beautifully crafted indie pop gem that showcases Austin Prince’s skills as a songwriter and musician, creating a sense of atmosphere and emotion that is both captivating and enchanting.
6. “Tennis Gang” by General Strike
“Tennis Gang” by General Strike is a funky and experimental track that combines elements of post-punk and avant-garde jazz. Released in 1980, the song features a quirky and eclectic production with a driving bassline, dissonant guitar riffs, and unconventional percussion. The lyrics of the song are playful and irreverent, using tennis as a metaphor for the absurdity of modern life. The band’s off-kilter approach to songwriting and arrangement creates a sense of unpredictability and excitement, with each section of the song taking unexpected turns. The track’s jazzy and improvisational feel adds to its unique and unconventional quality, with a sense of experimentation and creativity that is both impressive and enjoyable. Overall, “Tennis Gang” is a fascinating and innovative track that showcases General Strike’s boundary-pushing approach to music-making, creating a sense of weirdness and fun that is hard to resist.
7. “Zero Love” by Belly
“Zero Love” by Belly is a moody and atmospheric track that blends elements of alternative rock and electronic music. Released in 2016, the song features a brooding and hypnotic production with dark and cinematic synths, glitchy beats, and haunting vocal samples. The lyrics of the song are introspective and emotional, exploring themes of heartbreak and self-doubt. The singer’s hushed and almost whispered delivery creates a sense of intimacy and vulnerability, while the distorted guitar riffs add a touch of grit and edge to the track. The song’s overall feel is introspective and melancholic, with a sense of yearning and longing that is palpable. Overall, “Zero Love” is a beautifully crafted and deeply affecting track that showcases Belly’s skills as a songwriter and producer, creating a sense of atmosphere and emotion that is both captivating and powerful.
8. “Tennis” by Chris Rea
“Tennis” by Chris Rea is a laid-back and nostalgic track that mixes elements of blues, rock, and folk. Released in 1983, the song features a gentle and melodic production with acoustic guitar, harmonica, and mellow percussion. The lyrics of the song are reflective and wistful, painting a picture of a bygone era of youth and innocence. The singer’s warm and smooth voice creates a sense of comfort and familiarity, while the simple and repetitive chorus adds a touch of catchiness and singability to the track. The song’s overall feel is mellow and contemplative, with a sense of nostalgia and longing that is relatable and appealing. Overall, “Tennis” is a charming and evocative track that showcases Chris Rea’s talents as a songwriter and storyteller, creating a sense of sentimentality and emotion that is both timeless and enduring.
9. “Tennis Shoes” by 838
“Tennis Shoes” by 838 is a high-energy hip-hop track that features a dynamic and bouncy production with heavy beats, catchy melodies, and fast-paced rapping. Released in 2020, the song showcases the rapper’s impressive flow and delivery, as he spits out witty and boastful lyrics about his lifestyle and success. The hook of the song is infectious and memorable, with a singalong chorus that is designed to get the party started. The overall feel of “Tennis Shoes” is celebratory and confident, with a sense of swagger and bravado that is both entertaining and empowering. Overall, “Tennis Shoes” is a fun and energetic track that showcases 838’s talents as a rapper and performer, creating a sense of excitement and enthusiasm that is contagious and irresistible.
10. “He Whipped My Ass in Tennis (Then I Fucked His Ass in Bed) Pansy Division” by Pansy Division
“He Whipped My Ass in Tennis (Then I Fucked His Ass in Bed)” by Pansy Division is a provocative and humorous punk rock track that uses the game of tennis as a metaphor for sexual dominance. Released in 1996, the song features a fast and furious production with distorted guitars, pounding drums, and catchy melodies. The lyrics of the song are irreverent and cheeky, painting a picture of a sexual encounter that is both playful and raunchy. The singer’s rough and edgy voice adds a sense of rebelliousness and attitude to the track, while the chorus is catchy and singable, creating a sense of fun and levity. The song’s overall feel is edgy and subversive, with a sense of humor and irony that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Overall, “He Whipped My Ass in Tennis (Then I Fucked His Ass in Bed)” is a bold and provocative track that showcases Pansy Division’s talents as a punk band and lyricists, creating a sense of irreverence and mischief that is both bold and refreshing.
11. “Thing Thing Tennis Ball” by Hitting Distance
“Thing Thing Tennis Ball” by Hitting Distance is a fast-paced and energetic punk rock song that celebrates the thrill and excitement of playing tennis. Released in 2011, the song features a raw and aggressive production with distorted guitars, driving drums, and shout-along vocals. The lyrics of the song are simple and catchy, with the singer describing the feeling of hitting a tennis ball and the rush of adrenaline that comes with it. The chorus is anthemic and singable, with a sense of urgency and excitement that captures the essence of the sport. Overall, “Thing Thing Tennis Ball” is a fun and infectious track that showcases Hitting Distance’s ability to create energetic and memorable punk rock songs.
12. “Wet Tennis” by Sofi Tukker
“Wet Tennis” by Sofi Tukker is an upbeat electronic dance track that combines elements of house, techno, and Brazilian baile funk. The song features driving, pulsing beats, catchy synth riffs, and Sofi Tukker’s trademark energetic vocals. Lyrically, the song is an ode to the joys of playing tennis, with lines like “Smash it like a racket / Feel the sweet, sweet satisfaction / I can do this all day long / Wet tennis, here we go.” The music video, directed by Charles Todd, features vibrant, colorful visuals of Sofi Tukker and their friends playing tennis in a variety of surreal and dreamlike environments, including a neon-lit court and a desert landscape. Overall, “Wet Tennis” is a fun and infectious party anthem that is sure to get people on the dance floor.
13. “Tennis” by A Band Called Tom
“Tennis” by A Band Called Tom is an indie rock track that blends catchy guitar riffs, driving drums, and punchy basslines to create an energetic and upbeat sound. The song features soaring, anthemic vocals that express a desire to escape and find freedom, with lyrics like “I just wanna get away / Leave the past and start again / I just wanna find a way / To be free and live again.” The music video, directed by Adrian Hylton, features a young man who is consumed by his passion for tennis and dreams of becoming a professional player. As he trains and plays, he finds a sense of purpose and determination, and ultimately achieves his goals. Overall, “Tennis” is an inspiring and uplifting song that encourages listeners to pursue their dreams and find their own path to success.
14. “Tennis Chains” by YBC Retro (feat. AK Dinxro)
“Tennis Chains” by YBC Retro (feat. AK Dinxro) is a trap/hip-hop song that features heavy bass, catchy hooks, and trap-style beats. The song is an ode to success, money, and the trappings of wealth, with lyrics that boast about designer clothing, luxury cars, and tennis chains. The song also features a guest verse from AK Dinxro, whose flow adds an extra layer of energy and intensity to the track. The music video, directed by YungTada, features scenes of YBC Retro and AK Dinxro performing the song in a variety of locations, including a tennis court, a mansion, and a luxury car. Overall, “Tennis Chains” is a high-energy, braggadocious track that celebrates material success and the lifestyle that comes with it.
15. “Anyone For Tennis” by Cream
“Anyone For Tennis” by Cream is a classic rock song that features bluesy guitar riffs, driving drums, and soaring vocals from Eric Clapton. The song was originally written as the theme song for the 1968 Wimbledon tennis tournament, and it features references to the sport throughout the lyrics. Musically, the song is characterized by its upbeat tempo, catchy chorus, and intricate guitar work. The instrumental section of the song features a blistering guitar solo from Clapton, which showcases his virtuosic playing style. The music video, directed by Derek Burbidge, features footage of Cream performing the song on stage, as well as scenes of tennis players in action. Overall, “Anyone For Tennis” is a classic rock anthem that combines elements of blues, rock, and pop, and celebrates the thrill and excitement of the sport of tennis.
16. “Table Tennis Table” by Gilberto Gil
“Table Tennis Table” by Gilberto Gil is a smooth and mellow Brazilian samba song that features light percussion, acoustic guitar, and Gil’s soft, melodic vocals. The song is a playful and lighthearted ode to the joys of playing table tennis, with lyrics that describe the excitement and thrill of the game, as well as the camaraderie that comes with playing with friends. The music is characterized by its relaxed and groovy feel, which evokes the laid-back vibe of a lazy afternoon spent playing table tennis in the sun. The music video features Gilberto Gil playing table tennis with a group of friends, with scenes of the game interspersed with shots of the beautiful Brazilian landscape. Overall, “Table Tennis Table” is a charming and delightful song that celebrates the simple pleasures of life and the joy of friendship.
17. “Can I Be Your Tennis Ball” by Jamie Foxx
“Can I Be Your Tennis Ball” by Jamie Foxx is a romantic R&B ballad that features a slow, sensual groove, and Foxx’s smooth, soulful vocals. The song is a metaphorical ode to the idea of surrendering oneself completely to a lover, with lyrics that compare the experience to being hit by a tennis ball, over and over again. Musically, the song features a sparse, stripped-down instrumental arrangement that focuses on Foxx’s vocals, with the addition of a haunting piano melody and a subtle, pulsing beat. The music video, directed by Ivan Berrios, features shots of Foxx performing the song on stage, interspersed with scenes of a couple engaging in a sensual, intimate dance. Overall, “Can I Be Your Tennis Ball” is a slow and sultry love song that explores the themes of surrender and vulnerability in a relationship.
18. “Tennis Fan” by Banoffee
“Tennis Fan” by Banoffee is an indie pop song that features a bouncy, synth-driven beat, and Banoffee’s dreamy, ethereal vocals. The song is a tribute to the sport of tennis, with lyrics that reference the excitement and drama of watching a tennis match, as well as the colorful personalities and rivalries of the players. Musically, the song is characterized by its infectious chorus and upbeat, danceable rhythm, with the addition of atmospheric synths that give the song a dreamy, otherworldly quality. The music video, directed by Eleanor Hardwick, features Banoffee playing tennis on a colorful, retro-style tennis court, interspersed with shots of vintage tennis footage and abstract, surreal imagery. Overall, “Tennis Fan” is a fun and whimsical song that celebrates the excitement and passion of being a fan of the sport of tennis.
19. “Hairy Tennis Match” by Pill Head
“Hairy Tennis Match” by Pill Head is a punk rock song that features fast, aggressive guitar riffs, pounding drums, and raw, gritty vocals. The song is a raucous and irreverent take on the sport of tennis, with lyrics that describe a wild and chaotic tennis match between two hairy, unkempt players. Musically, the song is characterized by its frenetic energy and driving rhythm, with the addition of distorted guitar solos and shouted backing vocals that give the song a raw, rebellious edge. The music video, directed by Simon Chan, features shots of the band performing the song in a dimly lit, underground club, interspersed with scenes of a tennis match played by a group of rowdy, mohawked punk rockers. Overall, “Hairy Tennis Match” is a high-energy, tongue-in-cheek punk rock anthem that subverts the conventional image of the sport of tennis, and celebrates the wild and untamed spirit of punk rock.
20. “Tennis Ball” by Hello Peril
“Tennis Ball” by Hello Peril is an indie pop/rock song that features a catchy, upbeat melody, and rapper Awkwafina’s playful, tongue-in-cheek lyrics. The song is an ode to the titular object, with lyrics that describe the tennis ball as a symbol of freedom and fun, and a source of joy and playfulness. Musically, the song is characterized by its catchy, singalong chorus, and its lively, upbeat rhythm, with the addition of jangly guitar riffs and bright, bouncy synths that give the song a fun, carefree vibe. The music video, directed by Danilo Parra, features shots of Awkwafina and the band performing the song in a bright, colorful studio, interspersed with scenes of people playing with tennis balls in various playful and imaginative ways. Overall, “Tennis Ball” is a fun and lighthearted song that celebrates the simple pleasures of play and imagination.
April Johnson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
