Awesome Soweto concert kicks off 2010 FIFA World Cup!
With only a few hours to go until the 2010 FIFA World Cup™, celebrations have begun in earnest at Soweto’s Orlando Stadium. True to African style and a first in FIFA history, this year’s tournament is bursting onto international screens with a song. This is the first World Cup to be inaugurated by a concert, and billed are the likes of Alicia Keys, the Black Eyed Peas, John Legend, The Parlotones, Angélique Kidjo and South Africa’s Voice, Vusi Mahlasela.
Waka Waka, the official FIFA World Cup™ anthem, will also be performed by Colombian superstar, Shakira, and our very own Freshly Ground. Somalian K’Naan will be calling out for football freedom with his own Waving Flag.
Broadcast to over 30 000 audience members and millions more worldwide – with the help of the South African Broadcasting Corporation, ESPN2, online music site VEVO and a little primetime coverage from ABC – this concert promises to raise the roof on international expectations.
When 70% of the music line-up are African, you can be sure the world will know where the heart of music for 2010 beats.
Tiffany Turkington-Palmer is at the event and says, “It’s absolutely fantastic! The organisation has been superb. There are thousands of people here, but the toilets are spotless and the organisation is really impressive! There is an amazing atmosphere!
In the queue for the concert. Photo: Tiffany Turkington-Palmer
The vibe is fantastic! Photo: Tiffany Turkington-Palmer
Bafana Bafana supporters turn out in their thousands. Photo: Tiffany Turkington-Palmer
Celebrating the start of the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ at the kick-off concert! Photo: Tiffany Turkington-Palmer
