Alicia Keys and Black Eyed Peas to kick off World Cup
Alicia Keys and Black Eyed Peas are to perform at a concert in South Africa that will officially “kick off” this year’s World Cup football tournament. (Photo: R&B singer Keys performed with Jay-Z at the Brit awards last month)
Shakira, John Legend and Angelique Kidjo will also appear at the event, to be held in Johannesburg on 10 June.
The 2010 World Cup begins the following day and runs until 11 July.
Jerome Valcke, of football’s governing body Fifa, said the pop concert would be a “testament to the universal and unifying power of football and music”.
“We are thrilled to have a concert of such magnitude and performing talent raise the curtain on the first Fifa World Cup in Africa.”
The concert – the first to be held on the eve of the tournament – will be produced by Emmy award-winner Kevin Wall and his company Control Room.
Hip-hop collective Black Eyed Peas had a hit recently with I Gotta Feeling
The event will also feature musical performances by popular African artist and appearances by past and present football legends.
“2010 will mark the first time the Fifa World Cup will be played in Africa,” said Wall.
“So it seemed fitting to celebrate this momentous occasion with a festival of live music from Africa and beyond.”
Other artists lined up to appear include Malian duo Amadou & Miriam, South African band the Parlotones and Colombian musician Juanes.
Proceeds will benefit 20 Centres for 2010, an official charity campaign dedicated to building 20 public health centres across Africa.
BBC NewsStay with Sierra Express Media, for your trusted place in news!
© 2010, https:. All rights reserved.
