The words focus on international harmony, coming together irrespective of creed or color, and striving to be one's best regardless of winning or losing. 🏆 History with the Rugby World Cup
The song utilizes "Thaxted," the stately and emotional theme from the middle section of "Jupiter, the Bringer of Jollity". This famous orchestral movement was composed by Gustav Holst as part of his suite The Planets . Holst also used this exact melody for the British patriotic hymn, "I Vow to Thee, My Country." World In Union
The specific lyrics for the rugby anthem were written by Charlie Skarbek in 1991. The words focus on international harmony, coming together
The 1995 version by PJ Powers and Ladysmith Black Mambazo became a powerful symbol of the post-apartheid "Rainbow Nation" in South Africa. It was featured heavily during the tournament and later in the film Invictus . Holst also used this exact melody for the
The song was commissioned by the International Rugby Board (now World Rugby) in 1991. It is performed at the opening ceremony of every tournament, usually recorded by a high-profile artist from the host nation: Host Nation Featured Artist(s) United Kingdom / Europe Dame Kiri Te Kanawa (New Zealand soprano) 1995 South Africa PJ Powers & Ladysmith Black Mambazo 1999 Shirley Bassey & Bryn Terfel 2003 United Colours of Sound 2007 All Angels 2011 New Zealand Hayley Westenra 2015 Paloma Faith 2019 Kiyoe Yoshioka 🤝 Cultural Impact
First commissioned in 1991, the song has become an iconic sports anthem promoting peace, unity, and global friendship. 🎵 Musical Origins & Composition
The anthem is frequently used for humanitarian causes. In 2020, classical artist Joanna Forest recorded a charity version to honor Matt Ratana, a beloved head coach and police officer killed in the line of duty.