Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The South African musicians who are demanding to be included in the World Cup kick-off concert must understand that the show is not all about them, a top FIFA official said Thursday.
Local musicians have reacted with anger to the line-up for the star-studded June 10 concert, saying it should have included more local talent.
"This is an international event, we need to attract audiences from around the world with big global names," said FIFA secretary general Jerome Valke.
"It is not only about the local artists. FIFA paid a lot of money to stage this event," he told journalists.
Two South African acts - The Parlotones and Vusi Mahlasela - have been included in the line-up, which includes the Black Eyed Peas, John Legend, Shakira and Alicia Keys.
The artists' union last week brought their grievances to Culture Minister Lulu Xingwana and World Cup organising chief Danny Jordaan.
"We have informed them that the concert is not the only arts event around the World Cup. This is not the end for them," Jordaan told journalists Thursday.
The kick-off concert will take place at Orlando Stadium in the historic Soweto township outside Johannesburg.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments