We’re now less than 100 days away from the FIFA World Cup and what better way to build the momentum than with the release of a football-themed single?

‘Stand Together’ has been recorded by local band, Ri-Fi, and will be released on streaming and download platforms on 3 April. This will coincide with a very special performance at Bramall Lane as Sheffield United take on Swansea. Ri-Fi will be performing before the game in the fanzone, located on the corner of Cherry Street and Shoreham Street, and will be interviewed on the pitch at half time.

But there’s much more to the song than just being a football anthem.

The song was originally penned by Keith Haynes for the 2014 Brazil World Cup and was found on his iPad after his passing. His son, Anthony, approached work colleague and Ri-Fi lead singer Dan Haynes (no relation) and asked if he would like to finish and record the song with the band. They jumped at the chance. 

Anthony and Dan both work for tool manufacturer Rothenberger and other band members – Lee Whitehead, Andy Matthews and Richard Jowers – all work in construction related industries. Given this connection, they decided to use the song as a platform to raise mental health awareness in the industry. 

Construction is one of the toughest industries to work in, both physically and mentally, with a suicide rate four-times the national average. Anyone who has worked on a building site will have tales of banter and bravado but what do you do if things aren’t too good? Fear of ridicule can often lead to workers dealing with struggles – be they anxiety, depression or stress – alone. But help is available. 

Band of Builders offers free, confidential counselling for tradespeople and has been quick to show their support for the single. On The Tools – the nation’s largest online construction community – and Construction Sport – who create leisure opportunities – have also jumped on board and working in tandem with the band, are also aiming to raise money for The Lost City – Project 7000. All profits from sales of the single will be donated to this charity, who aim to raise £2.5million nationally to fund therapy sessions for tradespeople across the UK.

“Stand Together is a project built around football and music and something that matters far beyond both: looking out for each other,” said Richard Jowers. “It’s about unity and community and shining a light on mental health in the industry.”

Alongside the release of the single, Ri-Fi are selling Stand Together t-shirts and have a unique ‘brick wall’ where businesses can sponsor a brick. This will take pride of place on stage at every band performance. 

Through downloads and streams, the band are hoping to crack the Top 75 and who knows, you may hear the chorus playing over the end credits of Match of the Day after a famous England victory.

Ri-Fi will be ramping up the live performances in the coming months, getting you well and truly in the mood for football’s most prestigious tournament, which this year takes place in USA, Canada and Mexico from 11 June to 19 July.

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