Video: AT&T Soundtrack

Kyle Davidson February 24, 2010

It's been said that, "music is what feelings sound like." If that is the case, then inside every athlete, before a competition, there is an orchestra playing Beethoven's fifth.

Video of athletes reacting to songs on the AT&T Team USA Soundtrack featuring artists like Mariah Carey, 3 Doors Down, Puddle of Mudd and many more

But, what separates the elite athletes from gifted enthusiasts is the ability to cut through the feelings and emotion to reach a point of intense focus dubbed the "Athlete zone." Intense focus is important because it allows the athlete to block out pressure and nerves, so they can focus on fulfilling their Olympic dream, performing to the peak of their ability and inspiring the nation they represent.

From swimmer Michael Phelps' pre-event, iPod-induced stoicism to halfpipe snowboarder Kelly Clark's pre-run karaoke, music plays an important role in helping athletes reach that zone. That's why AT&T joined with world-renowned recording artists, such as 3 Doors Down, Mariah Carey, Gloriana, Green River Ordinance, Puddle Of Mudd, Sugarland and many more, to produce the exclusive AT&T Team USA Soundtrack.

"The AT&T Team USA Soundtrack truly captures the spirit of the Olympic Winter Games," said Jason Simpson, director of AT&T Olympic Integration. "Top musical artists are joining together to inspire and encourage Team USA."

It's no wonder than when a few of the Olympians got the opportunity to listen to the soundtrack during team processing - before it's release - many of them had amicable reactions. Of course, each of them had their own most-inspirational song.

Some athletes choose music that gets them energized, while others listen to calm their nerves. For Skeleton slider Noelle Pikus-Pace, who likes to dance before sliding, music has somewhat of a transcendental affect.

"When I'm competing, I like to know that there are other stories besides my own," explained Pikus-Pace, whose most inspirational song was Hoobastank's "Never be Here Again." "They're telling a story too and it's nice to hear what they're talking about too, and they're fighting for something, fighting for a cause, and I feel like we're kind of doing the same thing here at the Olympics."

For bobsledder John Napier, something a bit faster-pace struck a chord.

"It's a little more my type of music," said Napier, talking about the 3 Doors Down song, "Time to Shine." "It's a little more upbeat ... gets me psyched, gets me ready to compete."

It's these type of reactions many of the recording artists were hoping for when they set out to create the songs.

"I am honored to be a part of this effort to support Team USA through this soundtrack, said singer/song writer Mariah Carey, who wrote the song, "100 Percent" for the soundtrack. "The Olympic Winter Games create once-in-a-lifetime moments for the entire world to see. It is truly amazing to watch these first-rate athletes compete and give everything they have to reach new levels of achievement. Their actions provide hope and inspiration for everyone. As artists, we strive to encourage others through our music."

What's also inspiring is that proceeds from downloads of the soundtrack during the Winter Games will go toward ensuring the perpetuation of the Olympic dream.

"Being a part of this collection of great artists in support of Team USA is inspiring. But the greatest reward is knowing that our contribution will help athletes achieve their dreams of Olympic Gold now, and into the future," said Wes Scantlin of Puddle Of Mudd. "Here's to all Team USA athletes who will shake up the world with their performances at the Winter Games in Vancouver!"

The AT&T Team USA Soundtrack is available exclusively via the iTunes Store, and via AT&T wireless devices.

Added Simpson, "Fans have the opportunity to connect with and support athletes by downloading the soundtrack. It's another terrific opportunity to show our support for these amazing and innovative world-class athletes."

AT&T is the Official Communications Services Partner of the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Teams.