St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican is hosting a free public concert — and the whole world’s invited. On Saturday, September 13 at 3pm, Pharrell and Voices of Fire, Andrea Bocelli, John Legend, Jennifer Hudson, Karol G, BamBam and more are set to headline ‘Grace for the World.’ It’s a one-of-a-kind show featuring live music performed by artists from around the globe, over 3000 drones and a powerful message that the world will remember.
The event will also be streamed live on Disney+, Hulu and ABC News Live. Register here to get access to the livestreaming link and keep up to date on all things ‘Grace for the World’.
A musical night to remember
An outstanding lineup awaits: Pharrell and Voices of Fire, Bocelli, John Legend, Teddy Swims, Clipse, Angélique Kidjo, Jelly Roll and an international choir of 250 voices, including the Choir of the Diocese of Rome. And at the helm of the musical direction for the “Grace for the World” concert is Adam Blackstone, an acclaimed music producer and multi-instrumentalist.
And as if that wasn’t enough, the event will also feature a drone and light show that’s inspired by the Vatican’s very own Sistine Chapel. Produced by Nova Sky Stories, the spectacle features a fleet of over 3000 drones that will transform the night sky into a moving piece of art. It’s totally free for the public in Rome and will be streamed live on Disney+, Hulu and ABC News Live at 3pm.
‘Grace for the World’ serves as the grand finale for the third World Meeting on Human Fraternity. Over the course of two days, international leaders and activists from every corner of the globe will have come together for one common goal — peace and unity for all of humanity. And to wrap up the proceedings, the Vatican will set the stage for an evening of live music that’s geared up to be one for the history books.
Gospel choir Voices of Fire have released their new album “OPHANIM” showcasing their collaborative spirit and amplifying the message of unity of the Vatican concert.
From John Legend to Karol G: international stars rock the Vatican
Artists from around the world will be joining forces on the night, from homegrown talents like John Legend and Jennifer Hudson (the latter performed for the late Pope Francis back in 2015) to Italy’s Andrea Bocelli and K-Pop star BamBam. It’s also shaping up to be a big night for Karol G as she’ll be the first Latin American artist to perform before the Pope this century. Rumor has it that the Colombian singer will team up with Bocelli for a duet of “Vivo per lei” and also perform her powerful solo “Milagros”, a song about celebrating life’s everyday miracles.
Pharrell and Andrea Bocelli
Pharrell Williams, recognized not only for his stellar achievements as a musician and producer but also for his commitment to social initiatives like UNESCO and YELLOW as well as his gospel collective Voices of Fire, embodies the spirit of togetherness at the forthcoming ‘Grace for the World’ concert. This remarkable Vatican concert and gathering channels the essence of his inspiring hit, ‘Happy.’
Reflecting on this momentous occasion, Pharrell passionately encouraged audiences to embrace music as a vehicle for unity and grace, emphasizing its power to unite humanity. He referred to the event as a “truly unique cultural moment where the world pauses and connects as one.” Co-director Andrea Bocelli complemented this vision, describing the concert as an extraordinary blend of music, narrative, and fraternity.
But there’s more to this event than just the music and drones — it creates a space for people to communicate with each other, exchange experiences and inspire new waves of hope. It’s a chance to reflect on what being human means in a world struggling with conflict, poverty and new crises every other day. And of course, this event is open to everyone.
These kinds of events don’t just happen once in a lifetime — they’re the kind that come around once a century. Don’t miss out on watching an unforgettable evening unfolding at St. Peter’s Square this September.