Sean Paul and Kes collaborate on Men’s T20 World Cup official anthem
Grammy award-winning artiste Sean Paul and Soca superstar Kes are teaming up to produce the official anthem for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.
The organizers stated in a media release that, “the anthem’s production is in full swing for the track that will reverberate around the world when 20 international teams come together across the West Indies and USA from 1-29 June.”
Produced by Michael “Tano” Montano, the anthem will be launched in the coming weeks, accompanied by a music video featuring appearances from various well-known superstars, they also announced.
Sean Paul, a Jamaican dancehall artiste, philanthropist, and record producer, boasts multiple Grammy, Latin Music, and Billboard Music Awards nominations. He has also received accolades such as an MTV Europe Music Award (2003), a Grammy Award for ‘Dutty Rock’ Reggae Album of the Year (2004), ASCAP Rhythm and Soul Music Awards for ‘Top Reggae Artiste of the Year’ (2005), an American Music Award (2006), and a MOBO Award (2013).
Expressing his enthusiasm, Sean Paul stated, “Cricket has always been a major part of our culture, so I’m honoured to record the official anthem for the T20 World Cup. I’m a big fan of Kes, and the track will feature a nice touch of the Caribbean, with some dance, to an international vibe and of course Soca – it will be a real anthem for people to sing out and feel the spirit of unity.”
Kes Dieffenthaller, known as KES, leads Kes the Band, an eclectic outfit from Trinidad and Tobago known for some of modern Caribbean music’s most memorable anthems. Besides collaborating with Sean Paul on the tournament’s official anthem, Kes has shared stages with artists like Will Smith, Major Lazer, and John Legend, and has collaborated with artiste from Wizkid to Snoop Dogg.
Kes added, “Our mission has always been about bringing worlds together, so blending cricket, dear to us in the Caribbean, with music is a powerful combination. Shoutout to Sean Paul, Tano, and the whole team for creating this musical vibe. Can’t wait for everyone to sing along to this worldwide anthem and bring the party to stadiums across the West Indies and USA.”
The announcement of the artists’ collaboration on the official anthem coincides with the upcoming release of Party-stand tickets for World Cup matches, which are scheduled to go on sale on April 15.
