Alicia Keys to open FIFA world cup

Alicia Keys and Black Eyed Peas will perform at a concert to launch the soccer world cup in South Africa.

Shakira, John Legend, Amadou & Mariam, Angelique Kidjo, Parlotones, BLK JKS, Tinariwen, Vieux Farka Touré, and Vusi Mahlasela will also take to the stage for the extravaganza. The concert will be held at the Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg on June 10.

"This concert will be a testament to the universal and unifying power of football and music," Jerome Valcke, from soccer's governing body FIFA, said. "We are thrilled to have a concert of such magnitude and performing talent raise the curtain on the first FIFA World Cup in Africa."

Past and present soccer legends are also expected to appear during the show.

The event will be produced by Kevin Wall and his company Control Room. Emmy Award-winning Wall is looking forward to staging the show, which will feature a host of popular African musicians.

"2010 will mark the first time the FIFA World Cup will be played in Africa," he said. "So it seemed fitting to celebrate this momentous occasion with a festival of live music from Africa and beyond."

Tickets for the concert are on sale now and proceeds from the show will go to building public health centres in Africa.

The 2010 FIFA World Cup begins on June 11 and runs until July 11.

- Bang! Showbiz