‘How Ed Sheeran helped me land World Cup Song’ — Burna Boy

Grammy-winning Nigerian artist Burna Boy has opened up about the pivotal role British singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran played in his involvement with the official 2026 FIFA World Cup anthem, "Dai Dai." The collaboration, which also features global superstar Shakira, marks a significant moment for Burna Boy as he joins an elite roster of musicians tied to one of football’s most prestigious events.

In a recent interview with Capital FM, Burna Boy explained that Ed Sheeran was the first to reach out to him regarding the World Cup project. Sheeran, who had Burna Boy’s contact details, initiated the conversation about collaborating on the anthem alongside Shakira. This outreach was particularly meaningful for Burna Boy, who had been eager to work with the Colombian singer, making the opportunity highly motivating.

Beyond facilitating the connection, Sheeran also offered Burna Boy invaluable advice on the pressure that accompanies performing at such a globally watched event. Understanding Burna Boy’s personality and work style, Sheeran prepared him for the immense expectations and stress associated with performing at the World Cup final stage. This mentorship illustrates the respect and camaraderie between the two artists.

Burna Boy described Sheeran as a highly thoughtful and professional artist, praising his intelligence and considerate nature. Their collaboration extended beyond merely working together on the track, highlighting a personal bond that has developed through this project.

The official World Cup anthem "Dai Dai," co-written by Ed Sheeran and producer Alexander Castillo, celebrates themes of resilience, unity, and inner strength—qualities that resonate deeply within the context of the global sporting event. The song’s release adds to the tradition of World Cup anthems that aim to capture the spirit of the tournament while bringing together diverse musical influences.

Shakira herself has acknowledged Burna Boy’s significant contribution to the track. She shared that she waited nearly three weeks for Burna Boy to submit his verse, underscoring her determination to include him on the song. She praised his vocal input as the element that elevated "Dai Dai" to a higher level, referring to it as the final, perfect addition.

This collaboration between Burna Boy, Shakira, and Ed Sheeran represents a fusion of different musical styles and global cultures, reflecting the international nature of the FIFA World Cup. Burna Boy’s Afrofusion sound blending with Shakira’s Latin pop and Sheeran’s British pop influences creates a unique anthem for the 2026 tournament.

While further details about the song’s production and promotional plans remain limited, the involvement of these high-profile artists ensures that "Dai Dai" will receive significant attention leading up to and during the World Cup. The track is expected to play a central role in the tournament’s musical identity, emphasizing the power of music to unite fans worldwide.

In sum, Ed Sheeran’s proactive role in bringing Burna Boy onto the World Cup anthem, coupled with his mentorship through the pressures of performing on such a stage, highlights an important behind-the-scenes dynamic. This collaboration not only enriches the musical landscape of the 2026 FIFA World Cup but also underscores the interconnectedness of artists across genres and continents.