In an unexpected move, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has reportedly approached late-90s rock legends Smash Mouth to compose a fresh version of the national anthem, hoping to infuse it with what officials are calling “unstoppable stadium energy.”
A Bold Move for a Bold Nation
Saudi cultural representatives stated that the kingdom is looking to “modernize” its national identity while maintaining “a strong, singalong spirit.” An official from the Ministry of Culture explained, “We want something timeless, something that reflects strength, resilience, and the ability to keep moving forward no matter the odds. Naturally, ‘Hey now, you’re a rockstar’ felt like the perfect anthem for our ambitions.”
Why Smash Mouth?
While many expected the job to go to a classically trained composer or even a Grammy-winning pop star, Saudi Arabia’s leadership instead turned to the band behind All Star and Walking on the Sun. “We considered Hans Zimmer, but frankly, too many dramatic horns. We thought about Beyoncé, but it turns out we can’t afford her. Then someone played Shrek at a strategy meeting, and, well, here we are,” said a government insider.
A Song Fit for a Kingdom
The band, best known for their infectious hooks and their role in Shrek’s cultural dominance, is rumored to be embracing the challenge. Surviving members have promised to deliver a track that is both “regal and ready to party.” One source close to the negotiations suggested lyrics may include a new chorus:
“Somebody once told me the crown was gonna roll me, I ain’t the sharpest scimitar in hand…”
Mixed Reactions from the Public
While some Saudi citizens are excited about the unexpected turn, others remain skeptical. “I was hoping for a national anthem that speaks to our deep history and traditions,” one local tweeted, “not something that makes me want to do karaoke at a dive bar in Texas.”
The Future of Saudi Arabia’s Sound
Despite the debate, the kingdom appears committed to its musical transformation. Insiders hint that if the anthem rewrite is successful, the next step will be licensing Walking on the Sun for Riyadh’s tourism ads. “We need an edge,” one official stated. “And if anyone knows about reinvention, it’s a band that got famous in the 90s and keeps showing up in memes.”
No word yet on whether Guy Fieri has been approached to direct the accompanying music video, but sources say negotiations are ongoing.
The idea of Saudi Arabia choosing Smash Mouth is a masterstroke.
The proposal has stirred a range of reactions among Saudis. Some welcome the fresh, bold direction, excited by the prospect of a reimagined anthem, while others question whether Smash Mouth aligns with the nation’s traditional heritage.
The idea of Saudi Arabia choosing Smash Mouth is a masterstroke.