The Ndlovu Youth Choir released their own version of the Rugby World Cup anthem, “World in Union”.
“This special arrangement was sung for the first time at Ellis Park for the players of the 1995, 2007 and 2019 World Cup teams,” the choir said on social media. We stand right behind captain Siya Kolisi and his Springboks. Bring home the cup!”
“World in Union” was sung for the first time at the tournament in 1991 in England by the New Zealand soprano Kiri Te Kanawa. The tune comes from Gustav Holst’s “The Planets” and can also be heard in the hymn “I Vow To Thee My Country”.
Composer Charlie Skarbeck was commissioned by the sport’s governing body in 1991 to come up with a song that captures the spirit of the game.
Various versions of the song have been used over the years: PJ Powers and Ladysmith Black Mambazo performed their own version in 1995; Welsh legends Shirley Bassey and Bryn Terfel did the same in 1999; and in 2015 Paloma Faith performed a version for ITV’s broadcast. During the tournament in 2019, Japanese singer Kiyoe Yoshioka recorded his version.
The Springboks will face Scotland in their first group match on Sunday at 17:45.
World in Union
There’s a dream, I feel
So rare, so real
All the world in union
The world as one
Gathering together
One mind, one heart
Every creed, every colour
Once joined, never apart
Searching for the best in me
I will find what I can be
If I win, lose or draw
It’s a victory for all
It’s the world in union
The world as one
If we climb to reach our destiny
A new age has begun
We may face high mountains
Must cross rough seas
We must take our place in history
And live with dignity
Just to be the best I can
That’s the goal for every man
If I win, lose or draw
It’s a victory for all
It’s the world in union
The world as one
If we climb to reach our destiny
A new age has begun
It’s the world
The world in union
A new age has begun
