If you’ve been around Theme Ride Thursday for a while, you know we love geeking out over instruments—International Drum Month, Guitar Month, Piano Month, National Violin Day, and of course, we love that sexy sax. Each one brings its own flavor to your ride.
Now it’s time to add some punch, some power, some attitude…and a whole lot of brass.
Go ahead—you know you want to get a little horny. 🎺
And if you’re ready to dive in, ICA members have access to our bucket playlist of over 200 horn-driven tracks, perfect for building your own horn-inspired rides.
There’s just something about horns that instantly elevates a track. Maybe it’s the punch, the swagger, or that unmistakable burst of energy that feels like a musical exclamation point—but when a horn section kicks in, it’s go time.
From the tight, syncopated hits of funk and R&B to the bold, brassy blasts of ska and the quirky accents of ’80s alternative, horns have long been the secret weapon behind some of the most infectious songs out there. Artists like Earth, Wind & Fire, Stevie Wonder, and Madness built entire grooves around them, while others use horns more sparingly to surprise, accent, and drive emotion in unexpected ways.
And here’s the fun twist: horns aren’t just “retro.” They show up everywhere in modern music too, from pop anthems to indie rock and even hip-hop, often layered in ways that feel fresh and powerful rather than nostalgic.
🚴♀️ How to Use Horns in Your Ride
One thing you’ll notice right away: a lot of horn-driven tracks lean toward higher tempos. That makes them perfect for:
- Fast flats
- High-cadence intervals
- VO2 max efforts
- Race simulations
But don’t pigeonhole them—there’s more variety than you might think. You’ll find:
- Mid-tempo grooves ideal for tempo or endurance work
- Heavier tracks that support strong, driving climbs
- Playful, punchy songs perfect for surges and attacks
And remember—you don’t have to limit yourself strictly to brass. Saxophones absolutely count, so make sure to check out our “sexy sax” bucket playlist for more inspiration. 😉
Song Ideas to Get You (and Your Riders) Horny
Goody Two Shoes, Adam Ant, 3:29, 95 bpm
The drums explode out of the gate, and then—bam—the horns take over. This one begs for a fast-cadence, high-energy interval. Think controlled chaos with purpose.
Our House, Madness, 3:21, 122 bpm
Classic British ska-pop with bright, cheerful horns. Don’t let the playfulness fool you—this track makes a fantastic peppy climb with steady pressure.
Got to Get You Into My Life, Earth Wind & Fire, 4:10, 142 bpm
A horn lover’s dream. This version transforms the original into a full-on R&B celebration. Use it for a fast climb.
Tusk, Fleetwood Mac, 3:37, 90 bpm
Those aren’t just any horns—that’s the USC Trojan Marching Band. Big, bold, and primal. Perfect for a powerful fast flat or even a race simulation. (Also sneaks into your drum-themed rides nicely!)
Let ‘Em In, Wings, 5:11, 88 bpm
This one’s a brass lover’s dream—featuring a trombone solo along with plenty of other horn flourishes. The tempo is fabulous for the cycling studio, making it perfect for an endurance or tempo flat, or even a longer sweet-spot interval. Sit back into the groove and let the horns carry you.
Sir Duke, Stevie Wonder, 3:52, 107 bpm
A joyful tribute to jazz legend Duke Ellington. Use this for a cadence-based interval or a second warm-up song. rRide steady in the high 80s/low 90s, then surge the legs over 100 rpm when he sings, “You can feel it all over!”
Pump It, Black Eyed Peas, 3:33, 154 bpm
That iconic horn line? Sampled from “Misirlou” by Dick Dale, the iconic surf classic. This one is pure adrenaline—perfect for an all-out fast climb.
High Hopes, Panic at the Disco, 3:10, 82 bpm
Modern pop meets marching band–style horns. The message is relentless optimism—pair it with a strong climb or headwind push where riders need mental grit.
Zoot Suit Riot, Cherry Poppin’ Daddies, 3:53, 92 bpm
Swing revival at its finest. Those horns drive the energy—use it for a fast flat at threshold, or push into VO2 max if you’re feeling spicy.
You Make Me So Very Happy, Blood, Sweat & Tears, 4:20, 103 bpm
Brassy, soulful, and uplifting. This song makes a perfect cool-down—let the horns carry your riders gently back to earth. (Dissociate from the beat.)
Final Thoughts
A horn-themed ride is pure fun, but it’s also incredibly effective. The natural energy, rhythm, and drive of horn sections make it easy to create profiles that feel dynamic and engaging; they almost build themselves.
So go ahead…
Layer in the brass.
Add some sax if you want to spice things up.
And let your riders feel it all over.
There are so many amazing songs with brass sections that I’m sure I’ve missed a few—so help us out! Share your favorites, and don’t forget: ICA members can dive into the bucket playlist below, featuring over 200 horn-driven tracks ready to inspire your rides.