Qatar 2022: These are the Best Songs of the World Cup
The draws for the World Cup groups have already been carried out and the new theme of this competition has been discovered. Will you join us to review the history of the World Cup songs? .
Photo: YT-Shakira
LatinAmerican Post | Ariel Cipolla
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Leer en español: Qatar 2022: estas son las mejores canciones del Mundial de Fútbol
The Qatar 2022 World Cup is already generating many expectations in lovers of this sport. Recently, the draws for the group stage were held and the song for this tournament was also presented. After all, it is also a very important cultural event. In fact, the World Cup songs practically become anthems of the World Cup season.
“Hayya Hayya” is the name of the song that will be in our heads from here until the end of this year, which will be the date on which this competition will take place. The theme is made by the artists Trinidad Cardona, Davido, and Aisha, the title can be translated as "Better together", demonstrating the importance of being united at this time of year.
The song, according to the commercial director of FIFA, Kay Madati, tries to bring together voices from the Americas, Africa, and the Middle East. Because of that, the single includes R&B and reggae influences, as well as really catchy choruses. Before this release, we decided to review history and make a list of the best songs in the world. We tell you!
We Are One – Brazil 2014
A simple song, but equally catchy. One of the best World Cups in history also featured a high-quality production, where artists such as Pitbull, Jennifer López, and Claudia Leitte came together to bring to life the theme that served as the backdrop for each of the matches in this competition.
It should be noted that this theme had two versions. The first was intended for an international audience, but it didn't have too many Brazilian rhythms. The second, on the other hand, incorporated some typical instruments of this country, which was the one that ended up being used for all official ceremonies.
The World United by a Ball – Mexico 1986
We go back a long way in time, to talk about a song that would show that the music industry also had a lot of influence on football. This song was performed by the Chilean Juan Carlos Abara, and it was the first time in history that a song went viral on an international scale.
This single is immediately recognizable for having a cheerful character, demonstrating the importance of peace and the union of the planet thanks to football. Its chorus also became really iconic: “Mexico 86, Mexico 86! The world united by a ball”. From this moment, the host countries would attach great importance to the music of the event.
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The Cup of Life – France 1998
The 1998 World Cup in France has another of the best songs in history. By Puerto Rican artist Ricky Martin, it is a song that he included on his successful album "Vuelve." This production also had its version in English, showing that the World Cup song was also an event in itself on an international scale.
It was the first time that a topic became a phenomenon beyond football. For example, the artist performed the song at the 1999 Grammys, in a broadcast seen by millions of people. In addition, Ricky Martin sang the theme in the World Cup final, but it is clear that, due to its danceable rhythm, it transcended what was merely football.
Waka Waka – South Africa 2010
Waka Waka was one of the most successful songs of Mundial. Performed by Shakira, it had the collaboration of the South African group Freshlyground. Like the Ricky Martin theme, it had a version in both English and Spanish, mixing Afro-Colombian rhythms with typical music from African regions.
The song became number 1 in 50 countries, becoming one of the most successful singles in the history of Colombia, Mexico, Chile, and Portugal, among other countries. It was the best-selling World Cup anthem of all time, with over 15 million copies sold worldwide. Without a doubt, a true musical hit.
Un'estate Italian – Italy 1990
Finally, another of the most symbolic songs of all time in the World Cup. By Italian Giorgio Moroder and Tom Whitlock, it was originally written in English. However, Gianna Nannini and Edoardo Bennato's interpretation ended up being more successful than the original, even in English-speaking countries.
It is considered by different sports and musical media as the best song in the history of the World Cups since its pop-rock style gives it a really nostalgic and exciting feeling. Every year it is repeated before the celebrations, something that demonstrates its historical importance.
And for you, what is the best song in the history of the World Cups?