FIFA has partnered with Universal Music Group for Brands to launch FIFA Sound, a new entertainment strategy for connecting football and music fans in a fun way with the help and participation of players and artists. One of the first projects under this strategy is The PlayOn podcast, which was launched on January 13.
Co-hosted by Universal Music Group’s artist Liam Payne and sports broadcaster Jaydee Dyer, this eight-episode podcast pairs star football players with award-winning musicians for a unique conversation. In each episode, renowned footballers will discuss the monumental moments of their careers through songs that were famous around that time. With the help of their musical partner on the show, they will then explore the connection between music and football in their lives.
The first episode starring Croatian soccer player Ivan Rakitić and Colombian band Morat has already been released. The future line-up of the series includes American midfielder Carli Lloyd with Rachel Platten (American singer-songwriter), and Nigerian footballer Asisat Oshoala with Tiwa Savage (Nigerian artist). Venezuelan soccer player Deyna Castellanos, Internet celebrity Lele Pons, and British Rapper Wretch 32 are also expected to feature in future episodes.
Talking about the new series and this interesting collaboration, Payne said, “I can’t wait for everyone to hear what we’ve been working on with FIFA. The PlayOn Podcast has been such a journey – it’s been awesome having these incredible players and special guests come together and exchange life experiences from both on and off the pitch, all through the lens of music.”
The FIFA PlayOn is streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, and other podcast streaming services. New episodes will be released weekly on Wednesday and playlists featuring the songs chosen by each player will be posted on Spotify. This podcast is one component of the much-larger FIFA Sound strategy, which will aim to create a unique fan experience through a range of initiatives in 2021.