FIFA World Cup Songs and Anthems

Soccer songs are not just a mix of words and rhythm – they have a deeper, dramatic meaning and are part of the tradition. Since the release of the first anthem at the World Cup in 1962, many acclaimed artists have left a lasting legacy.

I’ve been an avid follower of the World Cup competition for almost 20 years and have listened to energizing songs that made me love the tournament even more. In the following article, I’ll take you through the songs and anthems of the world’s most coveted sporting event. 

The Evolution of FIFA World Cup Songs

​FIFA songs have evolved significantly throughout history. Initially, anthems were simple, slow, and mostly monotonous. However, they later transitioned to be more rhythmic and passion-evoking.

For example, if you compare the sound of El Rock del Mundial to We Are One, I’m certain you’ll find them quite different. Songs have now become more global instead of only focusing on local audiences. 

Most Iconic FIFA World Cup Anthems and Songs

Ready for the best and worst soccer anthems and songs? Have a look (and a listen) at the compositions below. 

Los Ramblers – El Rock del Mundial

This is the first official World Cup song in 1962. The Chilean rock tune marked a new era. Even after 50 years, it’s still a timeless classic in soccer history. 

Ricky Martin – La Copa de La Vida

Ricky Martin is not just an ordinary performer. Whenever he enters the stage, he always meets the crowd’s expectations. In the 1998 World Cup, he came on with an electrifying anthem that set a new standard for FIFA songs.  

Giorgio Moroder – To Be Number One

Composed by the legendary Giorgio Moroder, this musical piece offered a futuristic and emotional soundscape for the Italian World Cup in 2006. It stood out for its quality and memorable melody.

Daryl Hall and Sounds of Blackness – Gloryland

The song was featured in the 1994 tournament. I think this is one of the most underrated tracks of the competition. For me, it had an uplifting message in the United States, especially at the time when soccer was not as popular as it is now. 

Anastacia – Boom

The 2002 World Cup was filled with controversy. All I can say is that despite Anastacia’s powerful vocal abilities, Boom was far from ideal. Its techno-pop style felt disconnected from the traditional vibe, and it remains one of the most forgettable songs.

Il Divo – The Time of Our Lives 

Il Divo and Toni Braxton gave a glorious performance in the 2006 World Cup. The time of Our Lives stands out with elegance, a great melody, and has received rave reviews from fans.

Shakira – Waka Waka

If anyone could drop a tremendous beat, it’s Shakira. No one could have done it better. I still vividly remember the video clip of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. This is a song you’ll remember for a long time. The rest of your life, even.

Pitbull – We Are One Ole Ola

When the 2014 World Cup was announced to be held in Brazil, we all knew it would be a real festival. This is indeed an upbeat piece. Sadly, it drew criticism for its lack of Brazilian flavour. 

Nicky Jam – Live It Up FIFA

The 2018 tournament in Russia is considered by some to be one of the most memorable events in recent years. Though Live It Up received mixed reviews for lacking cultural depth, its rhythm and energy still managed to hype the fans.

Davido, Trinidad Cardona, AISHA – Hayya Hayya Better Together

The song was featured at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, with the aim of sending a strong message and focusing on diverse vocal performances. It didn’t have the desired effect or even as much impact as previous anthems.

Memorable Performances and Their Impact

The first one that comes to mind is Shakira’s mesmerizing Waka Waka performance at the 2010 World Cup. It was a sign of celebration, unity, and charisma. 

Similarly, BTS’s Jung Kook delivered a fabulous display during the 2022 Qatar World Cup opening ceremony. It was broadcast live and was a great spectacle to watch. 

How FIFA Selects Official Songs and Anthems?

The process is thorough and time-consuming, as the chosen track must align with the tournament’s spirit. The obvious criterion is that the song should have a rhythm that’s in harmony with the global audience. 

Organizers take into account the following details:

• Global appeal and cultural representation.
• Collaboration with famous artists.
• Marketing campaigns.
• Local engagement. 

The Role of Music in World Cup Culture

Music plays an integral role in our daily lives. Soccer is no exception – it unites people worldwide by evoking strong emotions. It creates a global fanbase that celebrates the spirit of the game. When I first heard Wavin’ Flag during the 2010 South Africa tournament, the melody and chorus instantly captivated my heart and mind. It was like I was sitting at the stadium.

For many of us, soccer is not just a game – it’s far more than that. Music helps to elevate our passion and feelings even more. 

Controversies and Criticism of World Cup Songs

Without a question, creating a song to be the face of the World Cup competition is challenging. Hence, I’ve seen many controversies. Critics frequently argue that some anthems fail to deliver the stadium atmosphere or the true passion of the host nation. 

For instance, the 2014 anthem “We Are One” was criticized for generic World Cup lyrics and limited Brazilian influence. However, it remained the official piece for the tournament.

By Kai Iliev

Updated: 24 Apr 2025, 09:27