The 2021 lineup for Global Citizen Live saw some of our favorite artists from Lizzo to Ed Sheeran and Billie Eilish taking part in the exciting 24-hour concert. The aim of the gig is to raise climate change awareness, famine, and vaccine inequality among many others. As many as 60 artists performed from various cities including London, Seoul, and New York. The concert was attended by tens of thousands of attendees all over the globe while millions listened to the broadcast. The concert was opened by Elton John in Paris last Saturday in front of the Eiffel Tower. A pre-recorded performance by BTS preceded the live performance.
The aim of the festival was not to raise cash but involve world leaders and the citizen to be a part of a global initiative of socio-cultural, political, and economic impact. Global Citizen stated, “Across six continents, artists will help rally citizens in demanding that governments, major corporations, and philanthropists work together to defend the planet and defeat poverty”. Other events included planting a billion trees, donating meals to 41 million people, and vaccinate a billion people under different international governments.
The New York performances were by Coldplay, Jennifer Lopez, and Billie Eilish. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle also addressed the significance of the vaccines calling them ‘a basic human right’. The Duke said, “The way you’re born should not dictate your ability to survive.” Other performances included Cyndi Lauper and Alessia Cara. Stevie Wonder performed in Los Angeles and Paris saw Stormzy and the Black Eyed Peas taking the stage.
Some of the pre-recorded performances were given by Andrea Bocelli, Green Day, and Kylie Minogue. USAID Administrator Samantha Power announced that the US would contribute more than $295m (£215m) “to stave off famine and extreme hunger, confront gender-based violence and address the urgent humanitarian needs of the Covid-19 pandemic is leaving in its wake.” The concert was backed by many political and social leaders and international companies.
Attendees required proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test. Tickets were free of charge as the event brought together musicians, actors, celebrities, and world leaders working towards a unanimous cause.
