Overview
- FIFA unveiled the official World Cup song in early June with Shakira and Burnna Boy’s “Dai Dai” anchoring the 18-track tournament album.
- A Billboard readers’ poll published June 10 gave “Dai Dai” top fan honors with just over 31 percent of the vote and placed Shakira’s 2010 “Waka Waka” in a close second.
- Performers and songwriters interviewed by the Associated Press say an enduring anthem needs strong rhythm, a sing-along topline and stadium-shaking energy to unite diverse crowds.
- FIFA’s rollout includes countdown concerts, multiple opening ceremonies and corporate tie-ins such as Coca-Cola’s reimagining of Van Halen’s “Jump” featuring J Balvin, Travis Barker, Amber Mark and Steve Vai.
- Past World Cup tracks show only a few songs become lasting cultural touchstones, so the song’s legacy will depend on stadium adoption, broadcast use and streaming beyond the tournament.