Need a soundtrack to get you pumped for the World Cup? No problem. From Shakira’s “Waka Waka” to K’Naan’s “Wavin’ Flag” and Akon’s “Oh Africa,” it feels like there are as many songs vying for anthem status as there are teams competing in the main event.
Here, the 10 most worthy World Cup songs that are guaranteed to get you in the spirit — whether you’re a diehard soccer fan or just want a reason to shake your hips, wave your flag and shout, “Game oooon!”
Shakira and Freshlyground, “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)”
Official FIFA World Cup Song
Shakira’s catchiest ditty since “Hips Don’t Lie” features South African group Freshlyground and sets the tone with African rhythms and an infectious chorus.
K’Naan, “Wavin’ Flag”
Trending on Billboard
Official Coca-Cola Anthem
Like any good anthem, “Wavin’ Flag” immediately makes it easy for everyone sing along. For the patriotic novice, the video comes with a demonstration on how to wave your flag, courtesy of collaborators will.i.am and David Guetta.
Akon featuring Keri Hilson, “Oh Africa”
Official Pepsi Song
Pepsi’s “Oh Africa” spot features top soccer stars like Messi and Drogba doing what they do best over Akon and Keri Hilson’s feel-good, singalong anthem.
Angelique Kidjo featuring Bono and John Legend, “Move on Up”
Featured on “Listen Up! The Official 2010 FIFA World Cup Album”
West African songstress Angelique Kidjo enlists Bono and John Legend for this memorable cover of Curtis Mayfield’s “Move On Up.” Guaranteed to have more than just the soccer players moving their feet.
Dizzee Rascal featuring James Corden, “Shout”
Unofficial England Anthem, Simon Cowell Charity Single
Simon Cowell recruited rapper Dizzee Rascal and actor James Corden to record “Shout for England,” which reworks Tears for Fears’ “Shout. “We need team work/We don’t need a miracle,” Rascal muses on the track, whose proceeds will go to the Great Ormond Street Hospital.
Nneka, “Viva Africa”
Featured on “Listen Up! The Official 2010 FIFA World Cup Album”
True to Nneka’s progressive spirit, “Viva Africa” is at once a soulful artistic statement and an empowering pop tune. Children punctuate verses of everyday struggles by playfully shouting, “Viva Africa,” on the chorus.
J Pre, Wyclef Jean and Jazmine Sullivan, “Ke Nako”
Featured on “Listen Up! The Official 2010 FIFA World Cup Album”
Don’t let the soaring guitar solo fool you — “Ke Nako” is no power ballad. J Pre, Wyclef and Jazmine Sullivan bring the party with booming synth, handclaps and chants of “Twenty-Ten!” With lyrics like, “Now is the time to be the center stage/And show the world why we’re the best,” there’s no better track to capture the World Cup’s spirit of all-inclusive celebration.