Rochford, Talpa, SBS6 partner to find next Dutch pop anthem for World Cup

London-based Rochford Productions and Jon De Mol’s Talpa Concepts are partnering on a new music competition special that aims to find the next Dutch pop anthem for the FIFA World Cup.

John de Mol (left) and Chris Hopkins

I Want Your Song is a one-off live TV episode that will see six singer-songwriters, each of whom have written a soccer anthem, performing their songs in front of a live studio audience, accompanied by a live band.

Audiences at home will get to vote for their favourite song but Dutch singer Mart Hoogkamer will make the final decision. The winning song will be performed live at the end of the special and will later be released on national radio station, Radio 538.

The project is currently in production and will be broadcast live on SBS6 on Saturday, October 29.

The format has already proven popular for SBS6, with the first season pulling solid ratings last summer. Talpa Distribution is handling international distribution.

“The great thing about this format is that it’s adaptable for events and occasions celebrated in different countries around the world, even down to the simplest ideas – like a Christmas special,” said Rochford’s executive producer, Chris Hopkins.