SWC Kick-off concert final line-up
2010-05-04 10:10
Johannesburg - Control Room and FIFA have announced the final line-up of African and South African artists confirmed to perform at the FIFA World Cup Celebration Kick-off Concert.
Freshlyground, Hugh Masekela, Mzansi Youth Choir, Soweto Gospel Choir, and K’NAAN, who recently recorded the uplifting "Wavin' Flag (The Celebration Mix)" song that serves as the anthem for the entire Coca-Cola FIFA campaign, will perform alongside previously announced African and international artists – Alicia Keys, Amadou & Mariam, Angélique Kidjo, Black Eyed Peas, BLK JKS, John Legend, Juanes, Shakira, The Parlotones, Tinariwen, Vieux Farka Touré and Vusi Mahlasela - at the historic event taking place the night before the first match at 20:00 local time on June 10, 2010, at the newly-renovated Orlando Stadium in Soweto/Johannesburg.
"As South Africans we are proud to be hosting the first ever World Cup on African soil," said Hugh Masekela. "I am very humbled and flattered to be part of this global event and am looking forward to the concert with great interest and excitement."
The initial line-up drew the ire of local artists who felt that the concert was not representative of the country's talent.
However, organisers maintain that from its conception, they had envisioned the inaugural concert showcasing the rich cultural diversity and musical heritage of South Africa. "Artists selected represent current popularity and reflect the variety of musical generations, genres, and geographies of the country and African region." the said via press release.
The full line-up, featuring 70 percent African artists, will be seen by millions of music and football fans worldwide through the live broadcasts.
"We wanted to have an eclectic mix of music genres to appeal to as many people as possible around the world whilst at the same time showcasing the immense home-grown talent of the host country," said FIFA Director of TV, Niclas Ericson.
The concert will be broadcast live on SABC 1 on Thursday 10 June from 20:00 – 23:00.
Public Tickets
Music fans around the world can purchase tickets for the online at http://www.computicket.com/web/event/fifa_kick_off_celebration_concert/102900625 or via phone on (27) 083 915 8000. Concert tickets are priced at R450 (Outer Circle standing), R650 (Inner Circle standing), R850 & R950 (Upper Level seated), R1150 & R1400 (Lower Level seated). Ticket prices include VAT, Computicket Charges and Park and Ride for all ticket holders.
Parking and Security
A comprehensive parking and security system has been put into place for the 2010 FIFA World Cup Kick-Off Celebration Concert.
All those attending will be able to make use of the comprehensive park & ride facilities at nearby Nasrec. Concertgoers will then use the free bus shuttle service to and from Orlando Stadium as no parking will be permitted on or nearby the stadium itself. A comprehensive safety and security plan will be implemented for both Orlando Stadium and the Nasrec park & ride hub.