Alicia Keys, Shakira for world cup gig

Page last updated at 09:47 GMT, Wednesday, 17 March 2010

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Alicia Keys will play alongside a host of artists at the concert on 10 June

Alicia Keys, Black Eyed Peas and Shakira are amongst the artists set to appear at a concert marking the start of this year's world cup in South Africa.

The FIFA world cup kick-off celebration concert will take place the night before the tournament's first match on 10 June at Johannesburg's Orlando Stadium.

John Legend, Amadou & Mariam, Angelique Kidjo, BLK JKS, Tinariwen, Vieux Farka Touré, and Vusi Mahlasela will also appear.

"We are thrilled to have a concert of such magnitude and performing talent raise the curtain on the first FIFA World Cup in Africa," said FIFA Secretary General Jérôme Valcke.

'True celebration'

The concert marks the first time the world cup has been held on the African continent.

"Music and Sports are the lifeblood of African culture, so to combine those in this historic event will be a true celebration of African Culture," said ex-South Africa captain Lucas Radebe on news of the announcement.

Available world-wide, tickets for the concert are on sale now.

The world cup begins on 11 June when host country South Africa play Mexico in Johannesburg.