Burna Boy, Shakira’s ‘Dai Dai’ becomes highest-charting FIFA World Cup song

Shakira, the Colombian pop icon, has shared insights into the creation of Dai Dai, the official song for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, revealing her anticipation for Nigerian singer Burna Boy's contribution to the track. In a recent interview with PEOPLE magazine, she disclosed that she waited approximately 20 days for Burna Boy to deliver his verse, which ultimately became a key element of the song. The collaboration marked a unique fusion of Afrobeats, Caribbean rhythms, and R&B, aligning with the diverse musical landscape of the World Cup. The process began when Shakira, inspired by the cultural significance of the World Cup, sought a male vocal presence to complement the track. She noted that the event carried a strong masculine energy, prompting her to reach out to Burna Boy, whom she has long admired. According to her account, she contacted Burna Boy directly, expressing her desire to work together. He responded positively, agreeing to the collaboration without hesitation. Despite initial uncertainty, Shakira remained committed to the project. After waiting nearly three weeks for Burna Boy’s contribution, she expressed concern that the collaboration might not come to fruition. However, when the Nigerian artist finally delivered his verse, she praised it as “absolutely perfect.” She emphasized how Burna Boy’s vocals elevated the track, calling his performance “the cherry on top.” Shakira’s enthusiasm for the collaboration reflects her broader engagement with international music trends and her dedication to creating culturally resonant projects. Dai Dai was officially released on 15 July 2026, marking another milestone in her career as the first artist to perform songs associated with four different FIFA World Cups. Her previous contributions include Waka Waka (This Time for Africa), the anthem for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, and La La La (Brazil 2014), performed during the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. She also played a role in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar through her ongoing partnership with FIFA. The song’s blend of genres highlights the growing influence of African music on the global stage. Burna Boy, a Grammy-winning Nigerian artist known for his Afrobeats style, brought a distinctive sound to the track, further enriching its appeal. His participation underscored the increasing cross-cultural collaborations in contemporary music, particularly within major international events such as the FIFA World Cup. Shakira’s experience with Burna Boy illustrates the challenges and rewards of artistic collaboration. While the wait for his verse created some doubt, the final result exceeded expectations. Her admiration for Burna Boy’s talent and his willingness to contribute to the project exemplifies the mutual respect that can drive successful creative partnerships. As part of the 2026 FIFA World Cup celebrations, Dai Dai serves as a celebration of unity and diversity, reflecting the spirit of the event itself. Its release coincided with heightened anticipation for the tournament, which will take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The song’s inclusion in the official lineup underscores the importance of global representation and the power of music to bring people together.