The World Cup finally begins on Friday when host nation South Africa plays Mexico, so to boil excitement to its maximum, frothing power, FIFA put on a concert to launch the festivities on Thursday. Here's the best (and craziest) moments from the show that included performances from the Black Eyed Peas, Alicia Keys and Shakira at the Orlando Stadium in Soweto, Johannesburg.
Hugh Masekela -- The 71-year-old South African jazz master (and father of ESPN's Sal Masekela) started the show with a smooth vibe before building up the energy with the help of beautiful South African singer Lira and her patriotic dress. A fantastic start and a great way to welcome the international audience to their home.
All of the African acts -- From Masekela and Lira to "The Queen of African Music" Angelique Kidjo and Vusi Mahlasela, all the African musicians did a phenomenal job and blew everyone else away. As Brian Phillips said, "South Africa may not win the World Cup, but they're winning this concert."
Desmond Tutu dancing around in his Bafana Bafana gear -- When was the last time you saw a 78-year-old Nobel Peace Prize winner with the energy of a 7-year-old pumped full of Red Bull and Pixie Stix? "I'm dreaming, man! I'm dreaming! Wake me up!" was easily the quote of the concert.
The Nelson Mandela tribute video -- A classy tribute to a classy man. It's just a shame Mandela couldn't attend the concert in person.
Alicia Keys singing her throat raw -- She belted out her hits like she was trying to make the stadium explode from the sheer power of her voice. Awesome to see from a performer who didn't have as much of a vested interest in this event as the South African musicians.
Shakira -- Say what you want about her official World Cup anthem "Waka Waka" South Africans certainly have, but she's definitely, uh, fun to watch. And she brought the show to a rousing climax (with the help of some confetti and an overflowing stage full of backup singers).
