Introducing a symphony of football devotion, these 10 great songs that were named after famous football players serve as a testament to the cultural fusion of music and the king of sports, football. From Odumodublvck’s chart-topping ode to West Ham’s Declan Rice in 2023 to Dave and AJ Tracey’s grime anthem for the Brazilian center-back Thiago Silva, each song is a melodic celebration and tribute to some great names that spread magic within the four lines.
Join us as we explore the harmonious realm where the pitch meets the beat, capturing the essence of football brilliance in rhythm and rhyme.
10 Great Songs Named After Football Players
1. “Declan Rice” by Odumodublvck
In 2023, a song titled after West Ham United captain Declan Rice skyrocketed to become one of the year’s biggest hits. A heartwarming video surfaced and the Nigerian artist Odumodublvck’s catchy hip-hop track dedicated to Rice gained immense popularity, amassing millions of streams and views. The song’s success prompted a real-life meeting between Rice and Odumodublvck, capturing their camaraderie and the cultural impact of music intertwining with football.
2. “Thiago Silva” by Dave and AJ Tracey
Undoubtedly, Thiago Silva, celebrated as one of football’s finest defenders, is not only a legend on the field but also the inspiration behind a hit song by British rappers Dave and AJ Tracey. Released on May 13, 2016, the grime track titled “Thiago Silva” pays homage to the Brazilian footballer, then with Paris Saint-Germain. Complex magazine recognized its impact, ranking it 10th on their list of “Grime’s Most Impactful Songs of the 2010s.”
This musical tribute captures Silva’s enduring legacy, praising his skills and success. The song’s catchy lyrics and energetic beat propelled it to popularity, becoming a cultural phenomenon. Dave and AJ Tracey’s creation stands as a testament to Thiago Silva’s influence, immortalizing him not only on the pitch but also in the grime music scene.
3. “Mo Salah” by Ycee
Ycee’s hip-hop track, “Mo Salah,” intricately weaves African football culture into its beats. Named after Egyptian and Liverpool forward, Mohammed Salah, the song draws parallels between the rapper’s finesse and Salah’s on-field skills. The track showcases the harmonious relationship between music and football in Africa. This song was in his 2019 album “Ycee vs Zaheer”.
4. “Drogba (Joanna)” by Afro B
“Drogba (Joanna)” is a song by Ross-Emmanuel Bayeto better known as Afro B, released in 2018 and became a popular afrobeat and dancehall anthem. The song pays homage to Ivorian professional footballer Didier Drogba, using his name in the title, specifically referencing his time playing for Chelsea and the impact he had on fans. The track gained international recognition and success, contributing to Afro-B’s rise in the music scene.
5. “Maradona” by Andrés Calamaro
Andrés Calamaro’s “Maradona” stands as a genuine homage to the legendary Argentine footballer, Diego Maradona. The lyrics express profound admiration and connection between the artist and Maradona. Calamaro vividly portrays Maradona as more than an ordinary person, emphasizing his divine touch on the football field.
Calamaro conveys a sense of longing for Maradona’s return, celebrating his enduring impact on Argentina and the joy he brings to people’s lives. In the chorus, Maradona is hailed as a warrior with unparalleled talent. The song beautifully captures the essence of their unique connection, celebrating Maradona’s enduring legacy.
6. “Zinedine Zidane” by Vaudeville Smash
Vaudeville Smash, a dynamic Australian funk band originating from Coburg, Victoria, came together in 2009. Their breakthrough onto the global stage occurred when they joined forces with sports commentator Les Murray to create a tribute song dedicated to the legendary French football player Zinedine Zidane.
This collaboration catapulted the group to international acclaim, with their track earning the distinction of being recognized by Billboard as one of the top ten unofficial anthems for the 2014 World Cup.
7. “George” Best by The Wedding Present
The Wedding Present’s debut album, “George Best,” released in October 1987 under their label Reception Records, was aptly named as a tribute to the legendary Northern Irish footballer George Best. The band, having secured permission from Best himself, even featured him in promotional photos. The decision to associate the album with the renowned football figure suggests a deep admiration for Best’s impact on the sport and a desire to create a distinct identity for their work.
8. “Roger Milla” by Pepe Kalle
Released in 2011, “Roger Milla” is a French song sung by Pepe Kalle, that pays tribute to one of the greatest soccer players the African continent has ever known. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Kalle skillfully integrated elements from the fast-paced version of soukous produced in Paris studios.
Roger Milla gained fame for his outstanding performances in the 1990 World Cup in Italy, representing Cameroon. As an aging striker, he became the oldest player to score goals in a World Cup at that time. Milla’s unique goal celebrations, notably his dance around the corner flag, added to his popularity.
9. “Roy’s Keen” by Morrissey
“Roy’s Keen” emerged as a single by Morrissey in October 1997, marking the second release from the Maladjusted album. The song’s title refrain cleverly plays on the name of former Manchester United footballer Roy Keane, a nuance Morrissey amusingly acknowledged during live Performances. The track also found a unique spot over the closing credits of Keane’s 2002 documentary, “Roy Keane – As I See It.”
10. “Pogba” by BLKCITY
Does anyone remember Paul Pogba? Of course, but these days, the French player has been out of the scene, provisionally suspended after a drug test.
However, when he was at the peak of his form, BLKCITY released an Afrobeat single aptly named “Pogba.” Drawing from their experiences as part of the African diaspora, BLKCITY crafted a powerful, beat-driven sound.
