A definitive ranking of FIFA World Cup theme songs
The FIFA World Cup 2022, hosted by Qatar, is just around the corner, and the world couldn't be more excited. Football is not just a sport, it is a medium for us to share a common sentiment of joy and zest. Additionally, the Qatar World Cup holds a sentimental value as two of the most revered footballers of our generation, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, are playing their last world cup. All in all, we are all at the edge of our seats.
Now, it goes without saying that when it comes to the World Cup, the theme songs work wonders in evoking the right emotions and striking the correct chord. Here is a definitive ranking of every football World Cup theme song till date:
10. The Time of Our Lives (2006, Germany)
A slow, bordering on melancholy, ballad that can only be applicable as a soundtrack to a miserable compilation of penalty kick fails.
09. We Are One (2014, Brazil)
While Pitbull, Jennifer Lopez, and Claudia Leitte tried to be as colourful and vigorous as Brazil with the song and the video, the result of the endeavor was not nearly as vibrant. With Pitbull's shiny head bobbing everywhere, his co-stars were disappointingly overshadowed. The song was catchy but forgettable. Also, 2014 was the year of trying a little too hard, even for Shakira with her song "La La La".
08. Live it Up (2018, Russia)
The production, the backups with their strenuous Oh's are plain disappointing.
07. Gloryland (1994, USA)
Passable but edges along the fringes of nationalism a little too close.
06. Light Up the Sky (2022, Qatar)
Scary how bad this is. Yes, the all-woman concept is flattering but the execution is mediocre. It's just four women spewing mid-tier lyrics and trying really hard to prove something.
05. Mundial '82 (1982, Spain)
Bouncy and jovial, the song serves strongly.
04. To Be Number One (1990, Italy)
An unexpected mix of metal and disco, this one is quite a groovy banger.
03. World Cup Willie (1966, England)
For an early World Cup song, this wasn't half bad although it does sound like every English 60's band ballad.
02. The Cup of Life (1998, France)
The perfect mixture of music and message exists. It is The Cup of Life by Ricky Martin. He even livened up the 41st Grammys with a performance of the song.
01.Waka Waka (2010, South Africa)
Nothing compares to this. A song laced with nostalgia and rhythm. We surely need to go back to it from time to time. Shakira set a seemingly undefeatable standard with this one. The lyrics are spot on, diversity is portrayed, and every second of the song is an unforgettable experience.
K'Naan's "Wavin' Flag", though not officially a theme song, truly holds the position of an anthem that we still sing and admire. The words of the song and the feelings it evokes never fail to stir its listeners. 2010 is undoubtedly the epitome of music for football.
Mastura believes Hozier himself is a balladic masterpiece. Tell her you agree at choudhurymasturamahbub@gmail.com