2010 World Cup Opening Concert

The event that the whole of South Africa, and the world for that matter, has been looking forward to has finally arrived: the 2010 Soccer World Cup. On 10 June 2010, the Orlando Stadium in Soweto, Johannesburg, came alive with color, music and fans, gathered to celebrate the official opening of the World Cup with a concert that will long be remembered. International and local celebrities filled the stadium with rhythm and festivities, bringing everyone together in unity.

The first match will be played on 11 June 2010, with South Africa’s Bafana Bafana facing off against Mexico, but team rivalry was forgotten as the music of the opening concert lifted spirits and created an atmosphere of celebration. Spectators were able to see their favorite soccer stars grace the stage, as well as magnificent performances by stars such as Shakira, Hugh Masekela, Alicia Keyes, R Kelly and the Black Eyed Peas. Other performers included BLK JKS, Amadou & Mariam of Mali, John Legend, Vusi Mahlasela, Kidjo, Juanes, The Parlotones, Tinariwen, Vieux Farka Toure, Angelique and Femi Kuti, to name but a few. Fans cheered while waving flags and blowing vuvuzelas, showing their appreciation for the artists and the 2010 Soccer World Cup.

The opening match will also have a long list of dignitaries and celebrities in attendance, as Thabo Mbeki, Ban Ki-Moon, Joe Biden, FW de Klerk, Mwai Kibaki and Robert Mugabe, have confirmed their presence. More than two thousand journalists will be attending the opening match from all over the world, with more than four hundred photographers documenting the event on film. Not only was the official opening concert a massive success, with more than fifty thousand people in attendance, but throughout South Africa stadiums opened their doors for the Fan Fest, where supporters were able to enjoy music and entertaining performances in all the host cities. The 2010 World Cup has kicked off on such a high note that it is seen as a start of things to come. With a beautiful country to explore, World Cup games to attend, brilliant local and international music, and an unmatched atmosphere to enjoy, the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup is guaranteed to be an unforgettable event.