The World Cup 2010 Kickoff Concert taking place at Orlando Stadium in Soweto in Johannesburg this afternoon has been strangely shrouded in secrecy as far as the music stars performing is concerned. It is the first step in the final countdown to the start of the World Cup tomorrow.
What is known for sure is that Shakira has arrived, and that she will be singing the official World Cup song ‘Waka Waka’ with Freshlyground. Other performers known to attend are the Black Eyed Peas, Goldfish, John Legend, Alicia Keys, Kwani Experience, Tumi Molekane, Loyiso Bala, Lira, Angelique Kidjo, Blk Jks, Hugh Masakela, K’Naan, Juanes, Soweto Gospel Choir, The Parletones, and Vieux Farka Toure, according to the 2010 World Cup website. The Concert has been criticised by local performers, for not including enough local musicians.
The World up Kickoff Concert will be broadcast on SABC at 20h00. The German TV station ZDF will be broadcasting the show from 20h15, and the presenters will be talkshow host Thomas Gottschalk and ex-Miss South Africa Jo-Ann Strauss, presenting in German.
On the Grand Parade Cape Town kicks off its own “Cape Town Welcomes the World” concert from 14h00 today.  Local bands will perform, and R Kelly is the star musician who will also perform at the Kickoff Concert in Johannesburg. More than 100 artists will perform at the Cape Town Fan Fest on the Grand Parade, reports the Cape Argus. According to the People’s Post, Jimmy Dludlu performs at 18h00 tomorrow; Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi is on stage on Saturday; Goldfish perform on Sunday at 18h00; on Monday BLK Sonshine and CODA perform from 18h00;  Loyiso is on stage on 16 June, Liquideep on 17 June, and The Rudimentals on 18 June.Â
Chris von Ulmenstein, Whale Cottage Portfolio: www.whalecottage.com