Gospel Life

Eddie Hatitye

South African’s Soweto Gospel Choir has partnered with acclaimed US R&B stars; Akon and Keri Hilson, to record a charity song titled “Oh Africa”. The song, written by a popular American hip hop duo called Rock City and sponsored by Pepsi, also features 16 aspiring musicians from across the world.

The Soweto choir adds an African flavor to the song, with chants that make the backbone of the catchy chorus. The track’s music video features renowned footballers, Fernando Torres and Didier Drogba.

Akon last week confirmed that “Oh Africa” will feature on his eagerly-awaited 2010 album, as well as on Pepsi’s new football commercial.

According to Ahmed Abdel-Karim, UK marketing manager for Pepsi, proceeds from the track will go towards Akon’s Konfidence Foundation; an organisation whose intention is to help underprivileged youth in Africa.

Since starting out in 2002, the Soweto Gospel Choir has performed in Australia, New Zealand, the UK, the US, Europe and Singapore, becoming an international, multi Grammy award-winning sensation.

The 26-member group has also shared stages with noteworthy international musicians like Celine Dion, BeBe Winans, Kirk Franklin, and John Legend. The group also runs a foundation that works closely with orphans and AIDS victims in South Africa.

At present they’re in the US, promoting their latest album titled Grace.