11-06-2026 | Shakira and J Balvin Discuss the Making of FIFA World Cup Anthems
Crafting the Global Sound
The 2026 FIFA World Cup’s opening ceremony saw Colombian superstars Shakira and J Balvin take center stage to answer questions about what makes a winning anthem. Both artists shared their philosophies on rhythm, hook, and unity, stressing that a FIFA song must resonate beyond borders.
Shakira’s Vision of Unity Through Rhythm
Shakira recalled her experience on “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” and explained that a good World Cup song must feel “rhythmic” and “energetic.” She said: “It has to be global, it has to bring people together.” The Colombian singer emphasized that the rhythm should push listeners to dance and sing in unison, creating a shared experience that echoes stadium cheers.
J Balvin’s Hook‑Driven Strategy
J Balvin highlighted the importance of a strong hook that captures attention in under five seconds. He explained that the anthem for 2026, a reimagining of Van Halen’s “Jump,” needed to match the intensity of a soccer match. “That hook keeps the energy alive,” he stated, noting that love and rhythm must be intertwined for the song to feel alive.
Celebration and Winning Emotion
Newcomer Nora Fatehi added that beyond rhythm, a World Cup anthem should evoke triumph. When describing “Siir, Siir,” she said the aim is to make the listener feel like they have conquered the world and to inspire motivation and aspiration.
Unity Across Cultures
Wyclef Jean, who co‑wrote “Dar um Jeito (We Will Find a Way),” stressed that the anthem’s rhythm should electrify stadiums. He argued that any global song can bring people together without needing a chorus in five languages, as the underlying beat and message of unity speak to all.
Multilingual Approach and Diverse Artists
The 2026 official soundtrack features Shakira, J Balvin, Burna Boy, and others, illustrating a multilingual palette that spans regions—from Latin America to African and Caribbean sounds. This diversity showcases how the World Cup anthem becomes a cultural bridge.
Final Thoughts
Collectively, Shakira, J Balvin, and their collaborators demonstrate that a memorable World Cup anthem balances rhythm, a hook, celebration, and a message of unity. Their approach ensures the music reaches fans worldwide, turns stadiums into shared celebrations, and stays etched in the memories of millions.
