Caribbean feel World Cup theme song

Wednesday, May 31, 2006

Dubai (UNI): The hunt for the official song for next year's World Cup in West Indies has started and the hosts' musicians are likely to have it easy, given the organisers' insistence that the composition be ''heavily Caribbean in flavour'' and have artistes from the region associated with it to reflect the Windies passion for cricket. ''The signature song of next year's tournament should be something that reflects the region's vibrancy and passionate, fun-loving lifestyle and, of course, its love affair with cricket,'' an ICC release said here. Though the organisers have invited entries from all quarters, they have made it clear that the music talent from the Caribbean would be given precedence over others.

''While anyone in the music industry can respond, we definitely want Caribbean input and the people who can truly reflect the spirit, music and culture of the Caribbean must have Caribbean roots,'' ICC CWC 2007 Marketing Manager Damon Leon said in the statement. He said even outside submissions would be required to have Caribbean artists so that the hosts can feel connected to the song. The entries for the competition would be accepted till June 16. ''This Request for Proposal (RFP) is open to all recording companies, consortia and producers worldwide with the stipulation that their submissions include Caribbean talent and promote Caribbean artistes and music,'' he said.

Although, Mr Leon said, known and experienced musicians would be leading the race even, those who have been previously unheard of should also come forward and submit their compositions. ''Persons with a lot of experience in the music industry are likely to contend for this honour but new and emerging Caribbean artistes also stand a good chance. This would be a great prospect for someone relatively new - or even unheard of - to come to the fore. It's the kind of opportunity that could launch a career,'' he said. The Official Song, which will be used for promotional purposes, can be an original or existing work. The organisers said the song should elevate the awareness, popularity and hype of the event besides being a promotional driver for sponsors and other stakeholders.