Drop the Mic: 21 Best Songs to Level Up Your COD Gameplay

Updated at: 16/05/2025

The adrenaline-pumping intensity of Call of Duty demands a soundtrack that matches its energy, and few genres deliver quite like hard rock and electrifying anthems. This isn't just a list of songs; it's a curated experience designed to enhance the thrill of every kill and the tension of every close call. Think of the raw power that fuels victories, the driving rhythms that push you through tough matches, and the anthems that resonate with the competitive spirit of the game. We're celebrating the timeless appeal of music that transcends generations, offering a journey through sounds that have echoed across battlefields – both virtual and metaphorical – for decades. From iconic guitar riffs that resonate with the precision of a perfectly placed headshot to soaring vocals that capture the triumphant feeling of a hard-fought win, the songs included here offer a perfect synergy with the COD experience.

This collection isn't just about nostalgia; it's about discovering – or rediscovering – the powerful energy that music can inject into gameplay. The diversity in tempo and style reflects the varied experiences within the game itself. Whether you're conquering enemy strongholds or navigating tense standoffs, there's a track here to amplify your engagement. This list aims to provide players with a dynamic, emotionally charged soundtrack to their gaming sessions, enhancing the already electrifying gameplay of Call of Duty and making each battle even more memorable. Prepare to experience your favorite game in a whole new dimension of sonic warfare.

Drop the Mic: 21 Best Songs to Level Up Your COD Gameplay
SongArtistAlbumListens
1. Thunderstruck AC/DC The Razors Edge 1B+
2. The Final Countdown Europe The Final Countdown (Expanded Edition) 1B+
3. Eye of the Tiger Survivor Working Class Dog 1B+
4. Stronger Kanye West Graduation 477M+
5. Centuries Fall Out Boy American Beauty/American Psycho 464M+
6. One Last Breath Creed Weathered 358M+
7. 'Till I Collapse Eminem
Nate Dogg 		The Eminem Show 345M+

1. Thunderstruck (AC/DC - 1990)

AC/DC's "Thunderstruck" released in 1990, remains a hard rock anthem, achieving significant commercial success and critical acclaim. Inspired by a lightning strike during Angus Young's flight, the song's instantly recognizable guitar riff propelled it to chart-topping positions globally, including number one in Finland and within the top five in Australia and the US. Its enduring popularity is evident in its millions of sales, numerous accolades, and widespread use in film and television, solidifying its place in popular culture and impacting listeners across generations. The song's impact transcends musical appreciation; its title has even become a widely understood expression.

Thunderstruck - AC/DC

2. The Final Countdown (Europe - 1986)

Has a song ever instantly transported you to another time and place? Europe's "The Final Countdown" released in 1986, achieves just that. Its instantly recognizable keyboard riff and anthemic chorus propelled the track to international success, solidifying its place in rock history. Inspired by science fiction and Cold War anxieties, the lyrics paint a picture of humanity's departure from Earth, blending grandiosity with a sense of both hope and uncertainty. The song's enduring popularity, evident in its continued streaming and online presence, testifies to its timeless appeal and masterful blend of catchy melodies and powerful vocals.

The Final Countdown - Europe

3. Eye of the Tiger (Survivor)

Survivor's "Eye of the Tiger" the iconic anthem from Rocky III, transcended its film origins to become a global phenomenon. Its powerful, driving rhythm and motivational lyrics resonated deeply with audiences, achieving number one status on charts worldwide and remaining a cultural touchstone. Originally commissioned by Sylvester Stallone, the song's enduring appeal stems from its ability to inspire perseverance and embody the spirit of overcoming challenges, making it a timeless motivational classic across generations. Its Grammy and Academy Award nominations further solidified its place in music history.

Eye of the Tiger - Survivor

4. Stronger (Graduation)

Dive into Kanye West's electrifying "Stronger" a track from his 2007 album Graduation. Sampling Daft Punk's "Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger," this anthem transcended typical chart success to become a cultural touchstone. Its infectious energy and powerful message of resilience captivated audiences, fueled by West's raw emotion and innovative fusion of hip-hop and electronic music. Listeners frequently describe the song as deeply felt, an experience that transcends mere auditory enjoyment; it connects with emotions on a visceral level. The innovative blend of genres, coupled with its emotionally resonant lyrics, solidified "Stronger's" place as a defining moment in Kanye West's career and a testament to his enduring artistic impact.

Stronger - Kanye West

5. Centuries

In a landscape of modern music often lacking the same epic feel, Fall Out Boy's "Centuries" stands out as a powerful anthem perfect for Call of Duty gameplay. The song's driving beat and anthemic chorus maintain focus during intense firefights, while its powerful instrumentation complements the game's dramatic atmosphere. Unlike many contemporary tracks, "Centuries" boasts a cinematic quality that enhances immersion, creating a feeling of both adrenaline and controlled aggression. Its blend of rock and pop makes it a versatile addition to any COD playlist, seamlessly transitioning between moments of strategic planning and all-out combat. The track's energy level perfectly matches the game's ebb and flow, making it a top choice for players seeking a soundtrack that elevates their gaming experience.

Centuries - Fall Out Boy
  • One Last Breath
    6

    One Last Breath

    Creed

    2001

    Weathered

  • 'Till I Collapse
    7

    'Till I Collapse

    Eminem,Nate Dogg

    2002

    The Eminem Show

  • You Spin me 'round
    8

    You Spin me 'round

    Dead Or Alive

    1985

  • Mortals
    9

    Mortals

    Laura Brehm,Warriyo

    2016

  • Lose Yourself
    10

    Lose Yourself

    Eminem

    2002

    The Blueprint 3

  • The Middle
    11

    The Middle

    Jimmy Eat World

    2001

    Bleed American

  • Remember the Name
    12

    Remember the Name

    Fort Minor,Styles Of Beyond

    2005

    The Rising Tied (Deluxe Edition)

  • Heart Afire
    13

    Heart Afire

    Defqwop, S-Trix

    2016

  • Until Dawn
    14

    Until Dawn

    Jaeger

    2016

  • Warriors
    15

    Warriors

    League of Legends,2WEI,Edda Hayes

    2018

  • Battle Cry
    16

    Battle Cry

    Imagine Dragons

    2024

  • Different Heaven - Nekozilla
    17

    Different Heaven - Nekozilla

    Rewind Top Shelf NCS

    2016

  • Cities in Dust
    18

    Cities in Dust

    Siouxsie and the Banshees

    1985

  • Invincible
    19

    Invincible

    Two Steps from Hell

    2010

  • I Live
    20

    I Live

    Black Ops 3

    2015

  • Champion
    21

    Champion

    2WEI

    2018