The secrets behind a memorable World Cup anthem, from Shakira and more

What makes a World Cup anthem unforgettable? Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, artists who have contributed to these global soundtracks shared their insights with The Associated Press. The consensus points to a blend of infectious rhythm, universal appeal, and the ability to capture the raw passion of the sport.

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Fútbol is a thing that unites so many cultures and people of different walks of life. The big responsibility of making a World Cup song is that you’ve got to make a song that represents people’s feelings, emotions, and passion.

Shakira, who co-wrote the 2010 anthem "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)" and is involved in the upcoming "Dai Dai," stressed the importance of global representation. "Fútbol is a thing that unites so many cultures and people of different walks of life," she explained. "The big responsibility of making a World Cup song is that you’ve got to make a song that represents people’s feelings, emotions, and passion." She believes a successful anthem must be rhythmic, make people want to dance, and inspire a collective sing-along with high energy.

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So you’ve got to write that song, in a way, understanding that it has to be global. It has to encompass so many cultures and represent so many in one tune.

Colombian singer J Balvin, part of Coca-Cola's reimagining of Van Halen's "Jump" for 2026, highlighted the need to grab listeners' attention immediately. "People’s attention (span) is only like five seconds," he noted. For a World Cup anthem specifically, he feels it must mirror the intense emotional rollercoaster of a soccer game, bringing together highs and lows into one powerful track.

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I feel like a good World Cup song needs to definitely have rhythm. It has to be rhythmic. It has to make people want to dance. And it has to be an anthem as well. It has to make people want to sing along in unison, sing out loud at the top of their lungs. It also has that kind of energy. That’s a must.

Nora Fatehi, featured on the 2026 FIFA World Cup album with "Siir, Siir," agreed that a great beat is essential for dancing and celebration. However, she also pointed to the need for anthems to resonate beyond just the dance floor, suggesting a deeper connection to the spirit of the tournament.

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Nowadays, with the music and every type of music, it doesn’t matter if it’s the World Cup, if it is a reggaeton or hip-hop (song), you know, people’s attention (span) is only like five seconds. And that’s the reality.