Reported By:
| Edited By: Yogesh Pawar,Dyuti Basu |Source: DNA |Updated: Jun 24, 2018, 08:51 AM IST
World Cup anthems find their origins in the hymn-like club songs that were composed and sung during football matches after World War I to promote empathy between nations. It all changed when, after Liverpool lost a match, all the supporters in the stadium burst into song – We are the Champions (Queen). This incident revolutionised the importance of music in football that evolved into World Cup music. My favourite song is Shakira's Waka Waka because it broke away from the hymn format. I was present at the world cup that year, and every time the song played, people would do Shakira's step together – it created a magical environment.
I intently follow football matches and find both Ricky Martin's The Cup of Life (1998 official FIFA World Cup song) and Shakira's Waka Waka perfect football anthems. They have that signature Latin American vibe when one thinks of the game. I also love It's Only Us by Robbie Williams and the catchy Tchu Tcha Tcha by Michel Telo. The latter's also a favourite of Brazilian footballer Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior.
My all-time favourite has to be Wavin' Flag by K'NAAN. The song brought emotions out like never before, even if it wasn't the official song. It was so easy to sing along to. People often associate their World Cup memories with the song they heard along with it. I still remember the South Africa world cup and all the great goals as much as the song.
Before a game, there are many distractions – screaming crowds, the media – plugging into music is a great way of tuning all the noise out. You'll often find Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo with headphones on, listening to a song or motivational speeches. I often did the same. My favourite – Waka Waka.
I'm from Bengal where cricket will never have the same following as football. Though I've had the fortune of meeting both Maradona and Pele, I am a great fan of C. Ronaldo and Messi. Apart from Shakira's Waka Waka, I also find Hijo by Los Cafres a great song that brings football to mind. Maybe because it's Messi's favourite too.
Waka Waka by Shakira comes to mind immediately – it's got a pulsating lively groove, the verses are melodic, emotional and it's simple. This also reminds me of my own anthem Spread The Light Of Freedom, which has stood the test of time. Amazing how people still remember the song 25 years after it was released. I feel it could have been a great anthem for the soccer World Cup.
