Key facts
- World Cup songs have been a popular pre-match tradition for decades.
- Nostalgic and optimistic songs from the 1980s and 1990s, like 'World In Motion' and 'Put 'Em Under Pressure', are remembered fondly.
- The Republic of Ireland's 1990 anthem featured Jack Charlton's audio quotes and a riff from Horslips' 'Dearg Doom'.
- U2 drummer Larry Mullen Jr. co-produced the Republic of Ireland's 1990 World Cup song.
- Northern Ireland recorded songs for the 1982 and 1986 World Cups.
- Phil Coulter co-wrote England's 1970 World Cup song 'Back Home'.
The enduring appeal of World Cup songs hinges on more than just star power, with nostalgic and optimistic tunes from past tournaments often resonating more deeply with fans than contemporary anthems.
While recent tournaments have featured global artists like Shakira and Pitbull, older songs, particularly from the 1980s and 1990s, continue to be celebrated. The Republic of Ireland's 1990 World Cup anthem, 'Put 'Em Under Pressure', is a prime example, featuring a memorable chorus of 'Olé, olé, olé, olé' and incorporating audio quotes from manager Jack Charlton. Barry Devlin, bassist for the band Horslips, noted that the song's guitar riff, adapted for the anthem, and Charlton's commentary contributed to its legendary status.
Devlin, who also produced early demos for U2, highlighted the technical innovation of songs like 'Put 'Em Under Pressure' and England's 'World In Motion' from 1990, suggesting these tracks set a new standard that has not been surpassed. U2 drummer Larry Mullen Jr. co-produced the Republic of Ireland's anthem, adding to its musical pedigree.
Northern Ireland also has a history of World Cup songs, with contributions in 1982 and 1986. Gerry Armstrong, who featured on these tracks, recalled the initial nervousness of players who were not professional singers, but noted the positive experience of working with Eurovision winner Dana on the 1982 song 'Yer Man'.
Earlier World Cup songs also hold significance, such as England's 1970 anthem 'Back Home', co-written by Phil Coulter. Coulter recounted how the song's initial commercial success was dramatically impacted by England's quarter-final defeat to West Germany in that year's tournament.