John Legend Kicks Off World Cup Concert
NEW YORK (CBS) Singer John Legend opened the World Cup Kick-Off Celebration Concert Thursday in Johannesburg, South Africa, during an event ushering in the 2010 FIFA World Cup this weekend.
PICTURES: 2010 World Cup Opening Concert
The singer was a principal headliner, along with Alicia Keys, Shakira and the Black Eyed Peas, of the three-hour global event, which took place at Orlando Stadium in the Soweto area of Johannesburg.
Legend, who told the Associated Press that he doesn't usually follow soccer, believed being a part of the festivities in South Africa, brought him in touch with the world.
"When you get down to it, it's an interesting sport," he tells the AP in a recent interview. "It's a sport that's easy to follow, and when there's the extra kind of excitement of such a big event, it's something that I definitely can watch.
"Music is a universal language," said Legend, who performed with singer-songwriter Angelique Kidjo of Benin. "This competition, football, is a universal language."
The performer took to Twitter shortly after his performance on the global concert stage tweeting: "I love you South Africa. Thanks for a wonderful welcome. I had a great time on stage tonight."
The concert will be broadcast on Friday, June 11, at 8.p.m. on ABC.
