FIFA and Sony Music Entertainment announced that Waka Waka (This Time For Africa), written and co-produced by global superstar Shakira, has been chosen as the Official Song of the upcoming 2010 FIFA World Cup™ in South Africa. The song will be performed by Shakira together with South African artist Freshlyground at the Closing Ceremony before the FIFA World Cup™ Final on July 11 in Johannesburg Soccer City Stadium. All proceeds from the song will benefit FIFA’s Official Campaign of the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ “20 Centers for 2010.”

“I am honored that Waka Waka (This Time For Africa) was chosen to be part of the excitement and the legacy of the 2010 FIFA World Cup,” said Shakira. “The FIFA World Cup is a miracle of global excitement, connecting every country, race, religion and condition around a single passion. It represents an event that has the power to unite and integrate, and that’s what this song is about.”

Shakira continued, “African music is so inspiring and is poised to take its place on the global pop culture stage. I was proud to be able to work with one of South Africa’s most acclaimed groups, Freshlyground.” The song was co-produced by Shakira’s frequent collaborator, John Hill.

Rihanna has confirmed dates for her 2010 North American tour, Last Girl On Earth. The multi-platinum and Grammy award winning superstar, who recently broke a Billboard record with her current number one single “Rude Boy,” becoming the only female artist of the past decade to have six #1 singles on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States, will be joined by rising star Ke$ha and female rapper Nicki Minaj, who will open all dates on the Live Nation produced tour. Tickets go on sale beginning April 9th at LiveNation.com.

Rihanna’s Last Girl On Earth tour will make 25 stops, at mix of top amphitheaters and arenas throughout North America this summer, beginning on July 2nd at the White River Amphitheater in Seattle through August 25th at the United Center in Chicago, with more dates to be announced soon. A dynamic performer renowned for her cutting-edge stage looks and designs, Rihanna’s Last Girl on Earth promises to be a visual spectacle on a scale unlike anything she has accomplished in her already legendary career.

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