Portal:Latin music/Selected song/61
"Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)" (Spanish: "Waka Waka (Esto es África)") is a song by Colombian singer-songwriter Shakira featuring South African band Freshlyground. It was released on 7 May 2010 by Epic Records as the official song of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, which was held in South Africa. Written and produced by Shakira and John Hill, "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)" is a pop song that pairs an African Colombian rhythm with a Soca-inspired beat. Its lyrics encourage one to aim for their goals like a soldier on a battlefield. The "waka waka" riff of the song was adapted from Cameroonian band Golden Sounds' 1986 song "Zangaléwa". The song initially generated controversy after numerous South Africans expressed disappointment in FIFA's decision to select Shakira to sing the song, opining that a native artist should have been assigned the role.
The song received generally favourable reviews from music critics, who complimented its composition. It has subsequently been listed as one of the best World Cup songs of all time. "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)" peaked at number one on record charts of numerous countries including Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Spain and Switzerland.