Africa's Biggest Music Stars Join 2026 FIFA World Cup Album and Live Celebrations

Africa's influence on the global music scene is set to be on full display at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with some of the continent's biggest stars playing leading roles both on the tournament's official soundtrack and at major FIFA events.

As football's biggest competition prepares to unfold across the United States, Canada and Mexico, FIFA has unveiled an ambitious 18-track official album that brings together artists from around the world. At the heart of the project are several African acts whose music has helped shape contemporary global pop culture.
Nigeria leads the continent's representation, with Burna Boy, Rema, Davido and Ayra Starr all featuring on the album, while South African Grammy-winning singer Tyla also secures a prominent spot on the star-studded project.
The album reflects the growing international appeal of African music, particularly Afrobeats and Amapiano, genres that have expanded beyond their roots to become dominant forces on streaming platforms, radio stations and festival stages worldwide.

One of the standout tracks is Dai Dai, the tournament's official song, which sees Burna Boy collaborate with pop star Shakira. The pairing brings together two artists whose music has transcended borders and cultures. 

Rema also features prominently on the project with Goals, a collaboration with Blackpink member Lisa and Brazilian singer Anitta. The track combines Afrobeats rhythms with global pop influences, further highlighting the international reach of African music.
Davido appears on No Place Like Home alongside electronic music group Major Lazer and Canadian singer Nelly Furtado, while Ayra Starr joins American rapper Latto on Show Me, adding another African voice to the tournament's diverse musical landscape.
South Africa's Tyla, whose meteoric rise has made her one of the continent's most recognisable young stars, features on Game Time with American rapper Future.

The African presence extends well beyond the album itself.
Several of the artists will also perform at FIFA-related events and opening ceremonies, ensuring that African music remains a central part of the tournament's cultural celebrations.
Tyla is scheduled to perform during the opening festivities at Mexico City's historic Estadio Azteca, sharing the stage with Burna Boy, Shakira and Colombian star J Balvin. The performance is expected to be one of the tournament's most watched entertainment events.

Rema will represent Africa during celebrations in Los Angeles, where he is set to perform alongside Lisa, Anitta, Future and Katy Perry.
Davido is also expected to feature prominently during FIFA's World Cup countdown concert in Los Angeles, adding further African representation to the tournament's entertainment programme.

The extensive involvement of African artists reflects a broader shift in global music, where performers from the continent are increasingly shaping mainstream culture and commanding international audiences.

For FIFA, the inclusion of these artists offers an opportunity to connect with younger and more diverse audiences. For Africa's music industry, it represents another milestone in a journey that has seen the continent's sounds move from regional success stories to a defining force in global entertainment.

With millions of fans expected to tune in for both the football and the accompanying celebrations, African artists are poised to leave an indelible mark on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, reinforcing the continent's growing influence on one of the world's biggest stages.