Nadeem Al Balushi, Oman’s self-styled singer and musician has attested his love for football by creating a unique album (and backing it with an AI video) that could serve as an anthem anywhere in the world where football fans are celebrating this annual FIFA fiesta. Hubert Vaz finds out the inspiration and intent behind this initiative

What prompted you to create this video – the inspiration behind it?

The idea came to me after the FIFA World Cup had already started. One day, while scrolling through YouTube, I came across Shakira’s Waka Waka, which has always been one of my favourite World Cup songs. The moment I heard it, I felt inspired to create something special from Oman. Since I had already released a song for the Oman national football team in the past, I thought, ‘Why not create a World Cup anthem with an international feel?’ That’s how this project began.

What are you trying to convey to football fans through this video?

My message is that football is much more than just a sport. It unites people from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds. Through this song, I wanted to celebrate the passion, excitement, and emotions that the FIFA World Cup brings. I hope it gives football fans positive energy and becomes part of their World Cup memories.

Why did you introduce yourself as a player in the beginning? How crazy are you about football?

I introduced myself as a player because I wanted to represent every football fan. Even though I’m a singer and musician, football has always been one of my biggest passions. Like millions of fans around the world, I experience every match with excitement, emotion, and anticipation. That opening scene shows that I’m not just performing a song – I’m also a football fan celebrating the beautiful game.

Do you think it is important for every region to have a theme song in its own common language to connect with fans during FIFA World Cup matches?

Yes, absolutely. Music has the power to connect people emotionally, and every region has its own culture and language. Having World Cup songs in different languages allows fans to celebrate in a way that feels personal to them. At the same time, creating songs in English helps reach a global audience. That’s why I chose to create this song in English while proudly representing Oman.

How do you relate to Shakira’s ‘Waka Waka’ during the 2010 World Cup?

Of course. ‘Waka Waka’ is one of the greatest World Cup songs ever made. It perfectly captured the spirit, joy, and energy of football. Even today, people around the world still sing it whenever they think about the World Cup. It’s a timeless song, and it definitely inspired me to create something that celebrates football and brings people together.

Do you think theme songs encourage/disturb players in the stadium?

I believe they encourage players rather than disturb them. Music creates an incredible atmosphere before matches, builds excitement among fans, and adds to the emotion of the tournament. That positive energy can motivate players and make the entire experience even more memorable. Football and music have always gone hand in hand.

What is your message to all football fans in Oman?

My message is to enjoy every moment of this World Cup with passion, respect, and unity. Support your favourite teams, celebrate the beautiful game, and remember that football brings people together regardless of nationality or background. I also hope everyone in Oman enjoys my World Cup song and makes it part of their celebrations throughout the tournament.

Tell me about the technical hurdles you faced while making this video.

The biggest challenge was time. We completed the entire project -including writing the song, recording the vocals, music production, filming the video, editing, and post-production – in just five days because the tournament had already started. I didn’t want to release the song too late and miss the World Cup excitement. Working under such a tight deadline required a lot of dedication, teamwork, and long hours, but we were determined to deliver a high-quality production with an international standard.

Who do you share credit with in this video?

This project was truly a team effort. I would like to thank Leonard Victor for his incredible work on the music and video production, Tariq Jalal for his creativity and support in mixing and mastering, and everyone who worked behind the scenes to bring this vision to life. I’m grateful to every single person who believed in this project and helped make it a reality.

Are you happy with the production, or do you think it could have been better?

I’m very happy and proud of what we’ve achieved, especially considering we completed everything in just five days. As an artist, I always believe there’s room to improve and learn from every project. If I had more time, I might have added even more creative elements.

The lyrics…

From every shore you came

With your colours in the air

Boots on the grass, hearts on fire

And your hopes all in a prayer

You sing your own sweet song

In the stands, in every lane

One flag high, one dream strong

Still you stand with grace again

One Game One World!