Shakira explains choice of Burna Boy for 2026 FIFA World Cup anthem "Dai Dai
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
Global pop star Shakira revealed her reasons for selecting Nigerian Afrobeats singer Burna Boy for the official 2026 FIFA World Cup anthem, "Dai Dai." In an interview on July 8, Shakira stated she sought a strong masculine voice to complement the song's Afrobeat-inspired sound, believing the World Cup embodies a significant male energy. She described the song as primarily rooted in Afrobeats, with additional Caribbean and R&B influences. Shakira, a Grammy-winning singer, mentioned her long-standing admiration for Burna Boy's music and her desire to collaborate with him. She recounted calling him for the collaboration, and despite a 20-day wait for his contribution, she remained hopeful. Shakira expressed satisfaction with Burna Boy's verse, stating it was "absolutely perfect" and that she couldn't imagine anyone else on the track. She admitted her determination to secure his participation. "Dai Dai" served as the official song for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Shakira and Burna Boy first performed the track at the tournament's opening ceremony on June 11, 2026, at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. They reunited for another performance during the first-ever FIFA World Cup final halftime show on July 19, 2026, at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where they were joined by Uganda's Ghetto Kids dance group. This collaboration marked Shakira's latest contribution to FIFA World Cup music, following her success with "Waka Waka This Time for Africa" for the 2010 tournament. Burna Boy's
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