Herbert Grönemeyer resolves issues with FIFA.
During the 2006 football fairytale in Germany, Herbert Grönemeyer supplied the ideal soundtrack with his song "Zeit, dass sich was dreht." This tune served as the official anthem. However, Grönemeyer has mixed feelings about his partnership with FIFA.
Football and music often go hand-in-hand. As the UEFA-led European Championship kicks off in Germany, singer Leony, in conjunction with the American band One Republic and the Italian EDM group Meduza, will render the official track named "Fire."
Customarily, world tournaments come with endorsed musical accompaniment from the apex. In 2006, for example, when the championships gifted Germany with a summer fairytale, Herbert Grönemeyer delivered the melodic backdrop. His song "Zeit, dass sich was dreht" not only topped charts during the World Cup, but many can still sing it today.
Regardless, even if the song helped him attain a number 1 hit in Germany, Grönemeyer recollects the unpleasant circumstances with disdain. "It was generally an uneasy collaboration," he shares with the football magazine "11 Freunde" regarding FIFA, which he also designates as a "gangster club."
"They sauntered through the stadium wearing brown bomber jackets - like a gang. At that time, I had a lump in my throat," the 68-year-old recollects about FIFA officials' behavior during the opening match. But it wasn't only their appearance that annoyed Grönemeyer; their business dealings left a sour taste as well. "They've got their own tune, the 'O-e-o-e-o-e,' that every artist must incorporate into their official songs. That way, they secure copyrights on the music and perpetually make money," states Colombian singer Shakira, who delivered "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)" as the official anthem for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa four years later.
Financially, FIFA falls short when it comes to settling bills, as per Grönemeyer: "I am still receiving payments from FIFA for my performance at the opening ceremony. To this day! It's about €45,000 they owe me and my musicians."
In spite of these unsavory experiences, Grönemeyer refuses to let the summer fairytale be tainted. "It was simply a fantastic tournament," he reflects, resonating with those who similarly cherish the memories.
