Hugh Masekela humbled by WC call

  1. Posted on Friday 7 May 2010 - 11:44
    accreporter
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    Kent Mensah, AfricaNews editor in Accra, Ghana
    The world football governing body FIFA has invited renowned African jazz musician Hugh Masekela and other South African artists to play at the opening concert of the World Cup. The 71-year-old musician said he was "humbled and flattered" to be part of the event.
    hugh Masekela
    FIFA has been lampooned over the exclusion of local artists in the concert which is taking place on African soil.

    According to the BBC and AFP reports local groups such as Freshly Ground and the Soweto Gospel Choir will join international stars at the event in Johannesburg on 10 June before the world football showpiece commences the next day.

    Respected and popular artists such as Shakira, Alicia Keys, the Black Eyed Peas, John Legend and Angelique Kidjo are amongst the other big names set to play at the concert, which will take place in Soweto's Orlando Stadium.

    Masekela told AP: "I'm more concerned with life in South Africa after the World Cup.

    "After 300 years of history I don't think the World Cup can change the lives of South Africans too much."

    Simon Attwell of afro-pop group Freshlyground told the BBC World Service: "Some South Africans feel that it should be 100% South African artists. South Africans have this notion that the World Cup is their event.

    "We're just happy to be involved. It's quite nice that it's artists from different parts of the world, [performing in] different languages."

    Waka Waka, a song by Freshlyground and Shakira, has been chosen as the official anthem of the 2010 World Cup.

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