‘I’m obsessed’ – Shakira on why she chose Burna Boy for World Cup song

Colombian singer Shakira has revealed her deliberate choice to collaborate with Nigerian artist Burna Boy on the official anthem for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This partnership marks a significant cultural and musical fusion, reflecting the global nature of the tournament.

In a recent interview, Shakira emphasized her intent to feature a commanding male voice to complement the track, titled “Dai Dai.” She identified Burna Boy as the ideal collaborator due to his dynamic vocal presence and energetic style, which she felt would elevate the song. Her enthusiasm for working with the Grammy-winning African star was evident, underscoring that no other artist could have matched the role on this project.

Since its release, “Dai Dai” has achieved unprecedented success, breaking new ground on several digital platforms. The song became the inaugural number one on Spotify’s newly introduced Global Music Video Chart, highlighting its widespread appeal and visual impact. Additionally, Burna Boy made history by becoming the first African artist to reach the top position on Apple Music’s Global Top Songs chart, signaling a milestone for African music in the mainstream global market.

The collaboration also propelled Burna Boy’s streaming figures to record highs. He reached 53 million monthly listeners on Spotify and amassed 600 million streams on YouTube Music, setting new benchmarks for African artists on these platforms. These accomplishments reflect the growing influence and international recognition of African music beyond traditional regional boundaries.

Furthermore, Burna Boy’s involvement in the World Cup extended beyond the recorded track. He became the first African artist to perform at the FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show, a newly introduced segment designed to showcase global musical talent during the event. This performance further solidifies his role as a leading figure in representing African music on the world stage.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup anthem serves as a cultural bridge, blending Shakira’s Latin pop roots with Burna Boy’s Afrobeat flair. This fusion not only celebrates musical diversity but also mirrors the international spirit of the tournament, uniting fans across continents through a shared sound.

While details about the production process and additional contributors to “Dai Dai” remain limited, the song’s impact is undeniable. It stands as a testament to the power of cross-continental collaboration in modern music, setting a precedent for future World Cup anthems.

This partnership between Shakira and Burna Boy highlights the evolving landscape of global music, where artists from different backgrounds come together to create works that resonate worldwide. Their success with “Dai Dai” signals a growing appetite for diverse sounds in mainstream sports entertainment, expanding the cultural reach of events like the FIFA World Cup.

In summary, Shakira’s strategic selection of Burna Boy for the 2026 FIFA World Cup official song has culminated in a record-breaking release that has amplified African representation in global music charts and live performances. The duo’s collaboration exemplifies the merging of talents across continents, capturing the unifying essence of the World Cup through music.