Star-studded World Cup concert to air live

• by Julian Quisquater , May 27, 2010

[TV WATCH] With America's interest in the World Cup at an all-time high, ESPN2 is taking full advantage by broadcasting complete live coverage of the Kick-Off Celebration Concert a day before the tournament begins. The event takes place at the 30,000-seat Orlando Stadium in Soweto, Johannesburg June 10 (2 pm ET). A highlight presentation of the concert will be shown on ABC during primetime on June 11 at 8 pm. ET/PT.

The 3-hour extravaganza is being hailed as the biggest entertainment event in South African history, and will feature prominent American artists Alicia Keys, the Black Eyed Peas and John Legend, as well as Colombian stars Shakira and Juanes.

The concert will also feature a wide array of notable artists from across the African continent, including Mali’s Amadou & Mariam, Tinariwen and Vieux Farka Touré, as well as Benin’s Angélique Kidjo and Somalia’s K’Naan.

South Africa’s musical talent will also be on display with artists including BLK JKS, Lira, Mzansi Youth Choir, The Parlotones and Vusi Mahlasela.

Somali artist K’Naan, who spent part of his youth in Canada, has been making waves in the American music industry since his hit song, “Waving Flag,” became the 2010 World Cup’s official anthem. His music blends hip-hop vocal delivery with socially conscious lyrics that often highlight his experiences growing up in Mogadishu.



BLK JKS recently made headlines by partnering with the Netherland’s Tiesto, the world’s most famous electronic music DJ, to produce the hit track “Dreaming.”



With such a diverse collection of outstanding musical talent from across the globe, the concert is sure to enhance the buzz that is already surrounding what is expected to be the most highly watched World Cup in U.S. history.