Kidjo shows bright faces of Africa

Goto| Wednesday 9 June 2010| Goto|

Benin superstar Angelique Kidjo brought World Cup fever to a Johannesburg primary school yesterday.

The Grammy Award winner filmed a cover version of Curtis Mayfield‘s Move On Up with Rosebank Primary pupils. The BBC will use the song as the theme tune for its World Cup coverage.

Kidjo has also recorded the song with singers John Legend and Bono.

She said: “I did this song and dedicated it to the youth of Africa so they can see that it is possible to overcome hurdles and feel equal to everyone else out in the world.”

Kidjo said it was important to film with children who are “happy and vibey. We need to show the world that Africa is not just about war”.

Kidjo, wearing a black suit, pink silk shirt and her signature short blonde hair, danced her way through the shoot. Teachers and pupils loved every minute of it.

Principal Leslie Lambert said: “This is great. The kids are excited to have her here and have the opportunity to be on international television.”

Amy Lesuthu, 13, said she was touched by Kidjo’s humility: “She was just herself and all natural.”

Grade 7 pupil Kulungile Thwala said she felt privileged to be part of “something so big”.