[1] The ceremony involved 1500 performers, including American superstar R.Kelly, Thandiswa Mazwai, Timothy Moloi, Hugh Masekela, Khaled, Femi Kuti, Osibisa, TKZee, Hip Hop Pantsula and the Soweto Gospel Choir.

[4] Although in frail health and 91 years old, the former South African president Nelson Mandela was scheduled to attend the opening ceremony, however had pulled out after the death of his great-granddaughter, who was killed in a car crash earlier in the day.

[6] Dignitaries from 4 organizations and 24 countries attended the event, which included 20 heads of state and 18 eminent persons.

Warm-up acts including Goldfish, 340ml and Tumi Molekane performed before the internationally televised portion of the concert began at 20:00 SAST.

The three-hour main event included performances by Alicia Keys, Amadou & Mariam, Angelique Kidjo, The Black Eyed Peas, BLK JKS, The Dave Matthews Band, Freshlyground, Hugh Masekela, Juanes, K'Naan, Lira, Shakira, The Parlotones, Tinariwen, Vieux Farka Touré and Vusi Mahlasela.