The FIFA Sound: More Than Just a Game Soundtrack
The FIFA Sound is renowned for its influential curation of music that transcends mere background noise, evolving into a cultural phenomenon deeply intertwined with the global appeal of football. It’s known for discovering and showcasing diverse musical talent, predicting future hits, and shaping the sonic landscape of football culture through its carefully selected soundtracks for video games and real-world events. This curated experience elevates the FIFA brand, making it synonymous with a particular blend of energy, globalism, and trendsetting musical taste.
The Evolution of a Sonic Identity
From its early days, the FIFA video game series recognized the power of music to enhance the gaming experience. What began as simple background tunes quickly morphed into meticulously curated soundtracks featuring artists from around the globe. This was a deliberate strategy to broaden the game’s appeal and reflect the international nature of football.
Steve Schnur, a key figure in shaping the FIFA Sound, understood that the music should not just be good, but also representative. He sought out emerging artists and under-the-radar gems, providing them with a platform to reach a massive audience. This approach differentiated the FIFA soundtracks from other sports games, which often leaned on established acts and predictable genres.
The impact of a FIFA soundtrack placement can be transformative for an artist. Many bands and musicians credit their inclusion in a FIFA game as a major catalyst for their breakthrough success. The FIFA Sound has become a launchpad, introducing millions of players to new music and helping to shape their musical tastes.
Beyond the video games, FIFA Sound extends to real-world events like the FIFA World Cup and The Best FIFA Football Awards. From the opening ceremonies to the stadium atmosphere, music plays a crucial role in creating an unforgettable experience for fans. The selection of theme songs and background tracks is carefully considered to capture the spirit of the tournament and resonate with a global audience.
The FIFA Sound is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a carefully crafted sonic identity that has become synonymous with football culture. It’s a blend of upbeat rhythms, global influences, and a forward-thinking approach to music discovery, solidifying its position as a trendsetter in the music industry.
FIFA Sound: Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions that shed more light on the FIFA Sound.
1. What defines the “FIFA Sound”?
The “FIFA Sound” isn’t defined by a single genre. It’s more about a vibe: energetic, globally-influenced music that resonates with the spirit of football and appeals to a broad audience. It often features a mix of popular hits and emerging artists, creating a soundscape that’s both familiar and fresh.
2. Who is responsible for selecting the music for FIFA games?
EA Sports has a dedicated music team, often led by figures like Steve Schnur, that curates the FIFA soundtracks. They work closely with associate producers to understand the game’s vision and then scout for music that fits the overall aesthetic.
3. How does a song get featured in a FIFA game?
The selection process is competitive. The EA Sports music team actively seeks out new music from various sources, including record labels, publishers, and independent artists. They look for songs that are high-energy, globally relevant, and possess a unique quality that aligns with the FIFA brand.
4. What impact does being on a FIFA soundtrack have on an artist?
Being featured on a FIFA soundtrack can significantly boost an artist’s career. It exposes their music to millions of players worldwide, leading to increased streams, downloads, and overall recognition. Many artists credit their breakthrough success to their inclusion in a FIFA game.
5. What was the first official FIFA World Cup anthem?
The first official anthem of a World Cup was “El Rock del Mundial” by Los Ramblers, which was created for the 1962 World Cup in Chile.
6. What is the FIFA Anthem played before games?
The “FIFA Anthem” or “FIFA Hymn” is an instrumental piece played before FIFA-sponsored events and matches. It’s a recognizable and iconic sound that sets the stage for the competition.
7. Which FIFA game is considered to have the best soundtrack by fans?
There’s no definitive answer, as it’s subjective. However, many fans cite FIFA 10, FIFA 12, FIFA 14, and FIFA 15 as having particularly memorable and influential soundtracks.
8. Does FIFA still use indie music in its soundtracks?
Yes, FIFA continues to feature indie music, although the mix has broadened to include a wider range of genres. The focus remains on discovering emerging talent and showcasing diverse musical styles.
9. How many songs are typically featured on a FIFA soundtrack?
The number of songs varies from year to year, but recent FIFA soundtracks have featured over 100 tracks, representing dozens of countries and genres.
10. What are some of the most popular songs that have appeared on FIFA soundtracks?
Some of the most popular songs that have appeared on FIFA soundtracks include:
- Blur – “Song 2” (FIFA: Road To World Cup 98)
- Avicii – “The Nights” (FIFA 15)
- Glass Animals – “Heat Waves” (FIFA 21)
- Imagine Dragons – “On Top Of The World”
- Kasabian – ‘Stevie’ (FIFA 15)
- Dizzee Rascal & Calvin Harris – ‘Hype’ (FIFA 17)
11. Has FIFA ever used older songs in new editions of the game?
Yes, for instance, FIFA 23 included a selection of classic FIFA songs from previous editions to celebrate the history of the franchise.
12. How does the FIFA World Cup influence the FIFA Sound?
The FIFA World Cup has a significant influence, inspiring theme songs and soundtracks that capture the spirit of the tournament. These songs often become global hits, further solidifying the FIFA Sound‘s cultural impact.
13. Who sang the official song for the 1994 FIFA World Cup?
Daryl Hall and Sounds of Blackness performed “Gloryland”, the official song of the 1994 FIFA World Cup.
14. How does the FIFA Sound contribute to the overall gaming experience?
The FIFA Sound enhances the overall gaming experience by creating a more immersive and engaging atmosphere. The music adds energy, excitement, and emotional depth to the gameplay, making it more enjoyable and memorable.
15. Are there studies or research about the impact of video games on learning?
Yes, the connection between video games and learning has been extensively researched. Organizations like the Games Learning Society and GamesLearningSociety.org, are dedicated to exploring the educational potential of games and simulations, and their website provides access to research articles, conference proceedings, and other resources related to games and learning.
The Legacy of FIFA Sound
The FIFA Sound has become an integral part of the footballing landscape, influencing not only the gaming experience but also the broader culture surrounding the sport. By championing diverse talent, predicting future trends, and creating a distinctive sonic identity, FIFA has cemented its place as a tastemaker in the music industry. Its impact extends far beyond the virtual pitch, resonating with fans worldwide and shaping the way we experience the beautiful game.