Songfacts®:

• This song by Colombian pop star Shakira and South African Afro-fusion band Freshlyground is the official song of the 2010 football World Cup. In July 2006, Freshlyground took part in the official handing over ceremony, which was held during closing of the 2006 World Cup in Germany.
• The song was co-produced by John Hill, who previously helmed the title track from Shakira's 2009 album, She Wolf.
• Shakira said that she was honored that the song "was chosen to be part of the excitement and the legacy of the 2010 FIFA World Cup." She added: "The FIFA World Cup is a miracle of global excitement, connecting every country, race, religion and condition around a single passion. It represents an event that has the power to unite and integrate, and that's what this song is about."
• According to a statement on Shakira's website, the song's chorus borrows from a favorite Cameroonian marching chant made popular by the group Golden Voices.
• The song appears on Listen Up! The Official 2010 FIFA World Cup Album with proceeds going to various African charities.
• This was Shakira's second straight association with the World Cup. The Colombian singer's single "Hips Don't Lie," whilst not specifically a football anthem, was performed by her and Wyclef Jean at the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2006 event in Germany.
• The song sold over one million singles worldwide in its first two months of release, making it the fastest-selling single and the biggest-selling World Cup single of the digital age. It topped the singles chart in over 20 countries including Argentina, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Italy, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, Sweden, and the World Cup's host country, South Africa.
• Shakira and Jennifer Lopez wrapped up the 2020 Super Bowl halftime show by teaming up to perform this song. This was the first time Latin singers were the headline performers at the big game.