The Sound of Change Live to Air in 150-Plus Countries

LONDON: The Sound of Change Live, a concert event presented by the Chime for Change global campaign for girls’ and women’s empowerment, is set to air in more than 150 countries across six continents, available to up to 1 billion people.

The initiative, launched by Gucci, brings together artists and internationally renowned activists to raise awareness of issues affecting girls and women. The goal is to raise funds for non-profit organizations pursuing change. NBC is on board to broadcast the show in the U.S. the day after the live event in London, giving it a prime-time slot on June 2.

Beyoncé, who is the co-founder and artistic director of Chime for Change, will perform a 45-minute special set. Other performers include Florence + the Machine, HAIM, Iggy Azalea, Jennifer Lopez, John Legend, Laura Pausini, Rita Ora and Timbaland. Madonna will be part of the presenter lineup, which also includes Aishwarya Rai, Abhishek Bachchan, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Blake Lively, Freida Pinto, Gloria Steinem, Gordon and Sarah Brown, Humaira Bachal, Jada Pinkett Smith, James Franco, Jessica Chastain, Leymah Gbowee, Mpho Tutu, Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy and Zoe Saldana.

Beyoncé said: “I am really happy that so many amazing artists and presenters have come together to support Chime for Change on 1 June. Our goal is to have a great time together while we unite and strengthen the voices of girls and women around the world.”

Madonna commented: “60 percent of the children in the world NOT in school are girls! 2/3 of the world’s illiterate are WOMEN! I Do NOT accept this. We need to change this and we WILL CHANGE THIS!”

Kevin Wall of Control Room, who is producing the event, said: "We are thrilled to be producing and distributing The Sound of Change Live concert event at London’s Twickenham Stadium on the 1st of June and utilizing our expertise in producing and distributing global multi-artist charity events to help Gucci raise funds and awareness for girls’ and women’s issues around the world."