MUSIC has long been a part of the Rugby World Cup, and a celebratory album featuring a host of global stars was released on Friday for this year’s tournament.
Among them are Bryn Terfel and Shirley Bassey, who famously opened the 1999 World Cup by singing the game’s anthem World in Union in Cardiff (pictured). Bassey wore her colours with pride that night, being dressed in the flag of Wales.
The song was given its first World Cup airing in 1991, when Dame Kiri Te Kanawa sang at the opening ceremony, and Paloma Faith’s new version appears on the album, which is also named World in Union.
“The euphoria of a world cup in any sport is amazing and to have recorded World in Union and to be following in the footsteps of some of the world’s greatest musicians is really special,” said Paloma.
“Music fans and rugby fans have a lot in common, both at a gig and at a match fans stand together and you feel the passion and the support. Neither music nor sport would be anything without the fans.”
The album also features Ella Eyre’s version of Swing Low, Sweet Chariot, Jerusalem by Russell Watson and Land of My Fathers by Katherine Jenkins, as well as hits by André Rieu, Tom Jones and many more.
Tracklist:
1. World in Union – Paloma Faith
2. Swing Low, Sweet Chariot – Ella Eyre
3. Jerusalem – Russell Watson
4. Land of My Fathers – Katherine Jenkins
5. Ireland’s Call – The High Kings
6. Flower of Scotland – Lucy Kay
7. Delilah – Tom Jones
8. God Defend New Zealand – Hayley Westenra
9. Hymne des Marseillais – Roberto Alagna
10. Abide with Me – Fron Male Voice Choir
11. Cwm Rhondda – Only Men Aloud
12. I Vow to Thee, My Country – Jonathan Antoine
13. We’ll Keep a Welcome – Richard & Adam
14. Waltzing Matilda РAndr̩ Rieu feat. Mirusia
15. Danny Boy – Charlotte Jaconelli
16. This is Rugby – Philip Sheppard
17. World in Union – Shirley Bassey and Bryn Terfel
