Soccer and stars seem to mix well! The Black Eyed Peas, Alicia Keys, John Legend, Shakira, along with many other international and African artists, made history as they performed for the first ever FIFA World Cup Kick-Off Celebration Concert that took place on June 10th in Johannesburg.
The Black Eyed Peas got the party started with their famous party anthem “I Gotta Feeling” and set the mood right. R&B music was well represented throughout the concert since John Legend and Alicia Keys thought the World Cup was worth the trip! Keys was feeling the African vibes so much as she performed a beautiful version of her worldwide hit “Fallin,” and songs from her latest album like “Try Sleeping With A Broken Heart” and her New York City anthem “Empire State of Mind Part II” that she ended up dedicating the performance to Johannesburg. The star shared her excitment on Twitter: “The Energy out here is STAGGERING!!!!! Unbelievable unbelieveable unbelievable!! I have a true connection w South Africa!!thank u 4 ur love!”
As for singer John Legend, the World Cup was the perfect time to deliver a new song from his upcoming album “Wake Up Sessions,” announced for release in September 2010. The soulful “Wake Up Everybody” was one of the most intense moments of the concert, as Legend’s voice was carried by the chants of the famous Soweto Gospel Choir. Besides singing, the artist also discovered a new passion during the World Cup: “I’ve watched more soccer in the last couple days than in the previous 31 yrs,” he said on Twitter.
Colombian pop star Shakira’s performance was also held to high expectations since “Waka Waka,” featuring the South African band Fleshyground, is the official song of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The latin singer and all her African dancers definitely set the stage on fire!
The concert was also an opportunity for talented African artists such as Malian couple Amadaou & Mariam, Beninoise legend Angélique Kidjo and Somalian rapper K’naan to hit the spotlight. K’naan’s performance was one of the most anticipated moments as well since “Wavin’ Flag” became Coca-Cola’s promotional anthem for the World Cup. Will.i.am joined K’naan on stage to perform this huge summer hit.
So no matter who wins or loses in a month, at least everyone will have enjoyed the World Cup celebration this year thanks to the memorable concert!
