Alicia Keys, Shakira and Black Eyed Peas are to perform at the start of the soccer World Cup in South Africa.

The FIFA World Cup Kick-Off Celebration Concert, held on June 10, will open the international sports tournament the night before the first match (11.06.10) and will feature 12 artists, including a number of African musicians alongside mainstream pop acts.

This year's tournament is the first time the World Cup has ever been held in Africa.

Former South African soccer player Lucas Radebe, who is helping organise the concert, said: "I believe these historic events will go a long way towards uniting the people of our rainbow nation in South Africa.

"Music and sports are the lifeblood of African culture, so to combine those in this historic event will be a true celebration of Africa."

Artists also playing at the concert include R'n'B singer John Legend, Mali's Amadou and Mariam, Beninoise singer Angelique Kidjo, South African rock group BLK JKS, Columbian rocker Juanes, South African indie group The Parlotones, Saharan desert musicians Tinariwen, Malian singer and guitarist Vieux Farka Toure, and South African artist Vusi Mahlasela.

The concert is expected to be attended by an audience of 30,000 at the Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg.