The UEFA European Championship, second only to the FIFA World Cup in global viewership, has a rich history dating back to 1960. Since 1992, each tournament has been marked by a unique anthem, often incorporating the host country’s language and reflecting the spirit of the event. In 2020, the tournament’s anthem took on a distinctly Irish flavor with the involvement of U2’s Bono and The Edge. Let’s delve into the story behind “We Are the People,” the official song of UEFA Euro 2020.
“We Are the People” was a collaboration between Bono, The Edge, and Dutch DJ and producer Martin Garrix, along with songwriters Albin Nedler, Kristoffer Fogelmark, Giorgio Tuinfort, and Simon Edmund Carmody. The song, a vibrant and uplifting track, became the soundtrack to a tournament delayed by a year due to the global pandemic.
The Collaborative Genesis of “We Are the People”
The creation of “We Are the People” was a journey that spanned three years, shrouded in secrecy until its official release. The initial contact between Garrix and the U2 members was surprisingly swift, leading to a rapid and enthusiastic response from Bono and The Edge.
“I remember I had to mute myself on the phone during the conversation just to scream and then unmute and play it cool,” Garrix recounted to Rolling Stone in 2021, describing his reaction to Bono singing new melodies for the track mere hours after the initial inquiry. This initial spark ignited a creative fire, leading to a recording session in Monaco where Garrix found himself working alongside two of rock music’s most iconic figures. “I had goosebumps in the studio the entire time,” he recalled, still awestruck by the experience of having Bono beside him, singing the song they were crafting together.
A Virtual Performance for a Unique Tournament
The release of “We Are the People” coincided with a tournament unlike any other. Postponed from 2020 to 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, UEFA Euro 2020 faced unique challenges and uncertainties. The song, however, remained a constant, a beacon of hope and unity amid the global disruption. Bono and The Edge even marked the tournament’s opening ceremony with a virtual performance of the anthem, a testament to the power of music to transcend physical boundaries and connect people in challenging times.
U2’s Musical Legacy and the Euro 2020 Anthem
U2’s involvement in the Euro 2020 anthem added another layer to their already impressive musical legacy. The band, known for their anthemic sound and socially conscious lyrics, brought their signature style to “We Are the People,” creating a song that resonated with both football fans and music enthusiasts. The song aimed to capture the unifying spirit of the tournament, celebrating the power of sport to bring people together.
The Impact and Reception of “We Are the People”
The song received mixed reviews, with some critics praising its uplifting message and others finding it somewhat generic. Regardless of critical opinions, “We Are the People” undoubtedly played its part in the atmosphere of Euro 2020. It became synonymous with the tournament, its melody echoing through stadiums and across television broadcasts, marking a moment in time when sport and music converged on a global stage. The song’s legacy is intertwined with the unique circumstances of the tournament, a reminder of the challenges and triumphs of a sporting event held in the shadow of a global pandemic.
The Future of UEFA Anthems and the Legacy of “We Are the People”
As the UEFA European Championship continues its four-year cycle, the tradition of the tournament anthem will undoubtedly evolve. “We Are the People,” with its unique collaborative origins and its association with the unprecedented circumstances of Euro 2020, holds a special place in the history of these anthems. It stands as a testament to the power of music to unite, uplift, and inspire, even in the face of global adversity.
Reflecting on the Collaboration and the Creative Process
The story behind “We Are the People” highlights the dynamic nature of musical collaboration. The unlikely pairing of U2 and Martin Garrix demonstrated how artists from different genres can come together to create something unique and memorable. The speed and enthusiasm with which Bono and The Edge embraced the project speaks to their enduring passion for music and their willingness to explore new creative avenues. Garrix’s evident awe and excitement throughout the process underscores the impact of working alongside established musical icons.
The Significance of Music in Major Sporting Events
Music plays a vital role in shaping the atmosphere and emotional resonance of major sporting events. Anthems like “We Are the People” serve as sonic emblems, encapsulating the spirit of competition, unity, and celebration. These songs become inextricably linked to the tournaments they represent, evoking memories and emotions long after the final whistle has blown.
Conclusion: A Lasting Anthem for an Unforgettable Tournament
“We Are the People,” born from a unique collaboration and released against the backdrop of a global pandemic, stands as a memorable chapter in the history of UEFA European Championship anthems. While opinions on the song itself may vary, its impact on the tournament is undeniable. The song, with its message of unity and hope, resonated with fans around the world, adding another layer of meaning to an already significant sporting event.
FAQ
1. Who wrote “We Are the People”?
“We Are the People” was a collaborative effort by Bono, The Edge, Martin Garrix, Albin Nedler, Kristoffer Fogelmark, Giorgio Tuinfort, and Simon Edmund Carmody.
2. When was the song released?
The song was released in 2021, coinciding with the rescheduled UEFA Euro 2020 tournament.
3. Why was Euro 2020 delayed?
The tournament was postponed from 2020 to 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
4. Did Bono and The Edge perform the song live?
They performed a virtual rendition of the song during the tournament’s opening ceremony.
5. Where can I listen to “We Are the People”?
The song is available on various music streaming platforms and online music stores.
We encourage you to share your thoughts and questions about “We Are the People” and its role in UEFA Euro 2020 in the comments below. We welcome further discussion and insights into the intersection of music and sport.
