Global stars who have rocked FNB Stadium in South Africa
Johannesburg’s FNB Stadium, also referred to as Soccer City, has established itself as a premier venue for international performers on the African continent.
With a capacity surpassing 90,000, the stadium has hosted numerous significant music events, from record-setting concerts to memorable shows that resonated throughout the city.
Here’s a summary of international musicians who have delivered remarkable performances at FNB Stadium.
1. Beyoncé and JAY-Z – Global Citizen Festival, 2018
In December 2018, the renowned couple headlined the Global Citizen Festival: Mandela 100, honoring Nelson Mandela’s centenary. The event featured an impressive roster including Ed Sheeran, Pharrell Williams, Usher, and Wizkid.
Over 100,000 attendees transformed it into more than just a concert; it stood as a global initiative merging music and activism, marking its place as one of the most significant events in FNB Stadium history.
2. Ed Sheeran – Divide World Tour, 2019
The British singer-songwriter graced FNB Stadium with two sold-out performances in March 2019 on his Divide World Tour.
Each night attracted over 60,000 fans, amassing a total audience exceeding 130,000, placing him among the top acts at the venue. His popular songs such as Perfect and Shape of You resonated deeply with the South African crowd.
3. One Direction – On The Road Again Tour, 2015
When One Direction arrived in Johannesburg, they ignited excitement among fans. Their On The Road Again Tour drew massive crowds, with many attendees experiencing their first live concert. The band’s two-night engagement at FNB Stadium welcomed over 130,000 supporters, solidifying their status in the global music scene before their hiatus.
4. U2 – 360° Tour, 2011
U2’s performance at FNB Stadium in 2011 is remembered for its scale and innovation. Part of their 360° Tour, the Irish band utilized a cutting-edge stage design termed “The Claw.” With roughly 94,000 attendees, this concert ranks among the largest ever held in South Africa, showcasing exceptional live production.
5. Chris Brown – Under The Influence Tour, 2024
Chris Brown achieved a milestone in December 2024 as he filled FNB Stadium for two evenings during his Under The Influence World Tour. Each night saw over 90,000 fans in attendance, placing him amongst the elite performers who filled the venue.
The concert featured viral choreography and popular tracks like Under The Influence and No Guidance, standing out as one of the year’s most significant international events in South Africa.
6. Rihanna – Diamonds World Tour, 2013
Rihanna captivated Johannesburg with her Diamonds World Tour, which combined allure and international appeal. Performing for over 67,000 fans, the Barbadian artist demonstrated her expansive reach, with her FNB concert becoming one of the highest-attended shows by a female artist in South Africa.
7. Bon Jovi – Because We Can Tour, 2013
The legendary rock band Bon Jovi energized the crowd at FNB Stadium with their Because We Can Tour. Fans were treated to classic rock anthems like It’s My Life and Livin’ on a Prayer. This show reinforced the venue’s versatility, accommodating various music genres from pop to rock.
8. Linkin Park – Living Things Tour, 2012
Before the untimely death of lead vocalist Chester Bennington, Linkin Park delivered an emotionally charged performance at FNB Stadium. The vibrant energy of hits like Numb and In The End created lasting memories for fans, with this concert becoming an iconic event in the local rock scene.
9. Travis Scott – Circus Maximus World Tour, 2025
In October 2025, Travis Scott became another name in the roster of artists to sell out FNB Stadium. His Circus Maximus World Tour was a visual feast with dramatic lighting, pyrotechnics, and elaborate staging.
The venue was filled with thousands of fans, further solidifying FNB Stadium’s status as a premier destination for outstanding performances.
Why FNB Stadium remains Africa’s concert capital
With an array of rock legends, pop stars, and hip-hop artists, FNB Stadium continually attracts leading global performers. Its substantial capacity, cultural significance, and dedicated audiences in South Africa make it an exceptional venue for artists aiming to make their mark in Africa.
