Two recent graduates of Berklee College of Music, Deven Kamra Lyons and Ben Zakharenko, have created Boston’s unique Sonic ID for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, making Boston the only host city to collaborate with a college to produce its official soundscape. The song will be played at all seven World Cup matches hosted at Gillette Stadium, including group stage games and a quarter-final.
Originally introduced as a remix competition by Berklee, the project quickly evolved into a major opportunity for the duo, who combined their talents to incorporate Boston’s cultural heritage into the composition. Drawing inspiration from Celtic music, rock influences, and the city’s diverse community, the two spent 20 to 30 hours blending hundreds of tracks featuring acoustic guitars, flutes, and modern electronic elements.
Faculty advisors praised the composition for its professional quality and authentic representation of Boston’s spirit. The piece captures the city’s revolutionary history and vibrant musical traditions, offering a distinctive soundtrack that connects the global event with the local community.
The collaboration highlights Berklee’s role as a world-class music institution and provides a platform for emerging artists to showcase their work on an international stage. Boston’s Sonic ID will feature prominently in stadiums, city events, and promotional campaigns throughout the tournament, uniting fans and residents alike in celebration of the world’s most-watched sporting event.
