There are artists who follow the world’s biggest stages, and then there are artists who were made for them. Elyanna is firmly the latter.
The Palestinian-Chilean singer is continuing her rise with the release of “Illuminate,” her new single featured on the official FIFA World Cup 2026 album.
Released via SALXCO UAM and Def Jam Recordings, the track pairs her with Canadian singer-songwriter Jessie Reyez in a collaboration that feels natural and historic; two powerful voices, two distinct worlds, one undeniable song.
“I am incredibly proud to be part of the FIFA World Cup 2026 album,” Elyanna says. “Most importantly, I am deeply proud to represent my culture, my country, and the Middle East, North Africa, and the Arab world on such a global stage.”
What is “Illuminate” about?
“Illuminate” is built around the themes of identity, belonging, and connection. The track weaves Elyanna’s Arabic musical heritage into a rich blend of R&B and contemporary global pop, and the result is something that hits differently every time you listen.
What gives “Illuminate” its real edge is Elyanna’s insistence on including Arabic lyrics. On a song destined for one of the world’s biggest stages, she refused to leave her roots behind, and honestly, thank goodness for that. Her vocal phrasing, her scales, her language, all of it sits front and centre, all of it unapologetically present.
The official music video, directed by Boni Mata, brings the whole thing to life with a visually striking concept that mirrors Elyanna’s artistic identity. Football-inspired elements are woven throughout, tying the visual to the spirit of the World Cup while keeping the focus exactly where it belongs: on her.
How was “Illuminate” created?
“Illuminate” was born during what was supposed to be a standard studio session with renowned producer Cirkut. He introduced the track, something clicked instantly, and Elyanna recorded it the same day. Just like that.
From there, the song became a labour of love. The lyrics were co-written by Elyanna alongside her mother, Feras Margieh, Bava, Aziza and international artist and producer Massari: a writing room that we would love to be a fly on the wall in.
What Does “Illuminate” Mean?
To illuminate something is to shed light on it, to make it visible, to give it the space it deserves. For Elyanna, that is exactly what this song represents. In a music landscape where Arabic artists have too often been kept at the edges of the global conversation, “Illuminate” plants a flag firmly in the centre. It is a statement disguised as a pop song, and it works beautifully as both.
The World Cup, at its best, reminds us that sport and music share the same superpower – the ability to bring people together across every border and language that might otherwise divide them. “Illuminate” captures that feeling and holds it up to the light. Quite literally.
When is the FIFA World Cup 2026 taking place?
The FIFA World Cup 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most spectacular tournaments in the competition’s history. Hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, the event will bring the world together in a way that only the World Cup can. Three separate opening ceremonies will kick things off, starting in Mexico City on June 11, 2026, then moving to Toronto and Los Angeles on June 12, 2026.
“Illuminate” is the fourth release from the Official FIFA World Cup 2026 album, joining “Lighter” by Jelly Roll and Carin León, “Por Ella” by Los Ángeles Azules and Belinda, and “Echo” by Daddy Yankee and Shenseea. If the rest of the album is anything to go by, the soundtrack alone is going to be worth the wait.
Here’s when and where to watch Elyanna perform live
Mark it in your calendar now. On June 12, 2026, Elyanna takes the FIFA World Cup 2026 opening ceremony stage in Toronto, performing in front of a global audience.
Listen to “Illuminate” here!