Soccer’s World Cup organisers divided fans by releasing the tournament’s official song on Friday (May 25) – a fast-paced dance tune titled “Live It Up” featuring American actor and rapper Will Smith.
Some on social media asked how the tune’s Latin American feel fitted in with the tournament’s host country Russia – and compared it unfavourably with past efforts including Shakira’s “Waka Waka” theme for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.
Some more were puzzled by the choice of performers – Will Smith is joined by Puerto Rico-born Reggaeton artist Nicky Jam and singer Era Istrefi, who describes herself as “Albanian Kosovar” – none of them from countries competing in this year’s contest.
The trio will perform “Live It Up” in front of spectators before the World Cup final in Moscow on July 15.
“It’s an honour to be asked to perform at the 2018 FIFA World Cup,” Smith said in a statement.
Smith has focused on his acting career for years, but the “Independence Day” star has recently hinted about a return to music.
This week, he posted a clip of himself rapping in a music booth on his Instagram page titled “Gettin’ back in the studio. Just warmin’ Up”.
