Rapper takes US dance charts by storm with 'soccer' song

An American version, with 'soccer' replacing the word 'football', and a Spanish version of the song have been recorded.

The 28-year-old, who grew up in Keats Close, Hayes and attended Uxbridge High School, told the Gazette: "I am still overwhelmed by the whole thing, it's all happened so quickly.

"It's strange because they don't love football over there like we do, but they have seem to have really taken a liking to it.

"We were getting good feedback about the song and then all of a sudden I got an email last week saying it had gone to number one. I was just like: 'Wow!'

"The hype has just grown. It's different to what I have done in the past, but I am open to trying different things when it comes to music, so I just thought: 'Why not?'"

More than 31,000 club and radio DJs have downloaded the track, produced by Gary Louca and Phil Owen.

The song will be officially released on May 27, less than two weeks before the start of the European Championships, co-hosted in Poland and Ukraine.

Dretonio has been singing since the age of 13, and has been nominated for several awards, as well as supporting the likes of Tinie Tempah on tour.

The avid Arsenal fan says he is optimistic about the song's continued success, and England's chances in the competition.

"Of course, we are hoping that it becomes big over here too. I'm a massive football fan, and of course I will be watching the Euros. I think we can go all the way."

Dretonio releases his official debut solo single, Rock the World featuring J.O. on Blaqbone Records in July.

To see more on Dretonio, visit www.dretoniomusic.com