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Shakira revealed why she selected Burna Boy for “Dai Dai,” the official song of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, saying she wanted a powerful male voice to complement the song’s Afrobeat-inspired sound and the tournament’s energy.
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The Colombian singer said Burna Boy was her first choice because she had admired his music for years and believed his distinctive vocals were the perfect fit for the record’s blend of Afrobeats, Caribbean rhythms, and R&B influences.
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Shakira also disclosed that she waited about 20 days for Burna Boy to send his verse after he agreed to join the project, admitting she briefly worried the collaboration might not happen
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The collaboration went on to become one of the biggest songs of the tournament, topping global charts and further highlighting the growing international influence of Afrobeats
July 28, (THEWILL) — Colombian pop star Shakira has revealed why she chose Nigerian Grammy winner Burna Boy to feature on “Dai Dai,” the official song of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking on the Capital Evening Show with Jimmy Hill, Shakira said she wanted a strong masculine voice that could match the energy of the World Cup while fitting the song’s Afrobeat-inspired sound.
She explained that the tournament carries “a big male energy,” so she looked for an artist with a powerful voice that would complement the record. Burna Boy, she said, was the perfect choice.
Shakira added that although “Dai Dai” blends Caribbean rhythms and touches of R&B, it is “mostly Afrobeat,” making Burna Boy a natural fit for the collaboration.
The singer also revealed that she had been a longtime fan of Burna Boy and had always hoped to work with him.
“I always loved Burna. I always wanted to do something with him,” she said.
Shakira said she reached out to the Nigerian star, who agreed to join the project.
However, she revealed that she waited about 20 days for him to send his verse and briefly wondered if the collaboration would happen.
“But then he sent his magic and it was absolutely perfect. His voice works so well on this song. I couldn’t imagine anybody else on it.”
She also admitted she was determined to secure Burna Boy for the record, saying she was “obsessed” with having him on the track and was delighted the collaboration eventually came together.
“Dai Dai” served as the official song of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Shakira and Burna Boy first performed it during the tournament’s opening ceremony in Mexico City before reuniting for the inaugural FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
The collaboration became one of the tournament’s biggest musical successes, debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard Global 200 and further highlighting Burna Boy’s growing influence on the global music scene.
Evi Ben Ezaga writes on entertainment, culture, and trending stories.
