What's happened
Shakira has partnered with Burna Boy for the official 2026 FIFA World Cup anthem "Dai Dai". Performances slated across opening ceremonies in Mexico City, with further showcases in the US and Canada. The AP interview highlights Shakira’s history with World Cup anthems and the need for a song that unites cultures, while other artists like J Balvin emphasize a hook that grabs listeners from the start.
What's behind the headline?
Analysis
- Shakira’s collaboration with Burna Boy aims to recapture the global anthem power of previous World Cups, anchoring the tournament’s cultural crossover.
- The emphasis on rhythm and sing-along energy remains central to official anthems, as reflected in Shakira’s own remarks about what works for a World Cup song.
- Industry voices suggest competition among performers signals a strategic push to maximize global engagement across diverse audiences.
- The integration of multiple markets (Latin America and Africa) hints at FIFA’s intent to broaden the World Cup’s cultural footprint while maintaining broad commercial appeal.
- Forecast: the success will hinge on how the live performances translate to viral, shareable moments beyond stadiums.
How we got here
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is co-hosted by Mexico, the United States and Canada. Shakira previously headlined for 2010 in South Africa with "Waka Waka" and has spoken about crafting songs that reflect global unity. Opening ceremonies are planned across three host nations, with a lineup including Belinda, J Balvin and Los Ángeles Azules, among others.
Our analysis
The Independent reports on Shakira and Burna Boy’s collaboration and her past World Cup anthems. AP News provides broader context from performers behind World Cup songs. Al Jazeera notes the Mexico opening ceremony lineup. The Independent also covers J Balvin’s perspective on hooks and engagement.
Go deeper
- Will Dai Dai resonate across diverse fans the way Waka Waka did in 2010?
- How will the opening ceremonies’ lineup influence global engagement this World Cup?
- Are other host nations expected to parallel the US/Mexico/Canada events with equally high-profile acts?
More on these topics
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Burna Boy - Nigerian singer
Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, known professionally as Burna Boy, is a Nigerian singer and songwriter. He rose to prominence in 2012 after releasing "Like to Party", the lead single from his debut studio album L.I.F.E.
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Shakira - Colombian singer
Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll is a Colombian singer, songwriter, record producer, dancer, actress, and philanthropist. Born and raised in Barranquilla, Shakira has been referred to as the Queen of Latin Music and is noted for her versatility in music.
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Mexico City - Capital of Mexico
Mexico City is the capital and largest city of Mexico and the most-populous city in North America. Mexico City is one of the most important cultural and financial centres in the world.
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J Balvin - Colombian singer
José Álvaro Osorio Balvín is a Colombian reggaeton singer. He has been referred to as the "Prince of Reggaeton", and is one of the best-selling Latin music artists with sales of more than 35 million records worldwide.