NI recently received an email that drew attention to the Black Eyed Peas’ new album, “Elevation”, the first songs have already been released. One, “Don’t You Worry,” featured Shakira and David Guetta, so it’s a real stadium hit full of promise. Do not worry! Promise, when the night begins, we’ll come alive! Apart from the longest stretch of the word “okay” ever heard, it sounds like the party songs of the 2000s. The second song is called “Simply the Best”. In the video, people move their hips in a good mood and incredibly fast. The email also said the Black Eyed Peas would be allowed to perform at the opening night of the World Cup in Qatar. Congratulation!
Now there are reasons to play as a band in Qatar. A lot of people are watching, the pay is good, the sun is shining, you can promote songs called “Simply the Best”. Besides, if Shakira were there, she would already have experience as a World Cup goddess. With a bit of luck there will also be an opportunity to place a message. that goes beyond what “Can’t stop, won’t stop, no fear” says in “Simply the Best” and sounds like the typical sports encouragement. I really don’t want to moralize. But can’t you expect more from bands that have sold 35 million albums than “It won’t get better than this”?
The “FIFA Sound Strategy” should be colourful
Instead of considering what such a message might look like, others prefer to explain why they are definitely not appearing. Dua Lipa wrote on Instagram that she is happy to visit Qatar if the country respects human rights, which means no day. Rod Stewart said it’s generally not right to go there. The FIFA Fan Festival now features Diplo and Sean Paul, with K-pop group BTS’ Jung Kook playing the opening ceremony. After all, a Korean for the first time.
The “FIFA Sound Strategy” is supposed to be colourful, instead of one song, several from all over the world, with the Qatari singer Aisha and the Bollywood star Nora Fatehi. Music fans around the world should be networked, according to FIFA’s customary arrogance. You want our superstars to have at least a hint of ambiguity, something like “freedom” or, if you like, a little bit of the pathos of Aguilera’s “beautiful”, at least a hint that Qatar isn’t Barcelona. Instead of being silent in loud tones.
If you have pop questions for our FAS column, send them to questionsyou@faz.de. We are happy.
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