Cowell-backed 'Shout' boosts England World Cup bid

[June 11, 2010]  LONDON (AP) -- Simon Cowell thinks he knows what's needed to boost England's World Cup chances -- a song produced by him.

The impresario and former "American Idol" judge has persuaded rapper Dizzee Rascal and actor James Corden to record "Shout for England," a hip-hop reworking of Tears for Fears' 1984 hit "Shout."

The song urges England's players to "set aside your ego/We're tired of bragging about 40-odd years ago."

Soccer-mad England hasn't won the cup since 1966.

The song had its debut this weekend on TV show "Britain's Got Talent." Cowell, a producer and judge on the show, said he hoped it "could get England to win the World Cup. That's what it's all about."

The track was released Wednesday, with proceeds going to charity.

The tournament opens Friday in South Africa.

[Associated Press]

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