October 7, 1988, was a historic day for music and human rights activism. On this day, the iconic Human Rights Now! Concert was held at the Harare National Sports Stadium in Zimbabwe, featuring an incredible lineup of legendary artists.
The Human Rights Now! Concert was part of a worldwide tour of 20 benefit concerts organized by Amnesty International to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The event aimed to raise awareness about human rights and social justice, using music as a powerful tool for unity and change.
The concert boasted an impressive lineup of performers, including Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, Sting, Peter Gabriel, Tracy Chapman, Youssou N’Dour, and renowned Zimbabwean musicians Cde Chinx and Oliver Mtukudzi. The artists took turns delivering unforgettable performances, playing a mix of their hit songs and covers that resonated with the crowd.
The Human Rights Now! Concert in Zimbabwe was a significant moment in music history, drawing a massive crowd of 75,000 people, including 20,000 foreigners, mostly from South Africa. The event showcased the power of music to bring people together and inspire positive change.
The concert’s impact extended far beyond the day itself, helping to raise awareness about human rights and social justice in Zimbabwe and beyond. The event remains an important reminder of the role music can play in promoting unity and advocating for human rights.
As we look back on this momentous occasion, we remember the incredible performances, the powerful message, and the lasting impact of the Human Rights Now! Concert in Zimbabwe. The event continues to inspire new generations of music lovers and human rights activists, serving as a testament to the enduring power of music to make a difference in the world.