Nelly, Bootsy Collins + more featured in The World Games 2022 musical lineup

The World Games 2022 (TWG22) is in less than 150 days and not only are The Games bringing international athletes and cultural sports competitions, but musical acts from icons like Nelly, Yolanda Adams and Bootsy Collins. Billboard Magazine released an exclusive of the lineup—here’s who to expect.

About the ceremonies

The opening and closing ceremonies for TWG22 will feature musical performances from many well-known recording artists and we can’t wait to see them live in Birmingham!

According to Billboard Magazine, “Unlocking the Magic: Celebrating the Power of One”, the opening ceremony happening July 7th, will celebrate sports and Birmingham history as The Games return to the U.S. for the first time in 40 years. The finale, “One World—One People: Celebrating Legacy, Achievement & Unity”, will commemorate The Games and the passing of The World Games flag to representatives of the 2025 host city of Chengdu, China on July 17th.

The entertainment magazine spoke with Dr. Henry Panion, the Artistic Director of TWG22—here’s what he had to say about The World Games 2022 musical lineup:

“I wanted to combine the elements of Olympic ceremonies and Super Bowl halftime shows with the best of my true loves—the sounds of a symphony orchestra and the pageantry, artistry and precision of professional drum corps. Gospel Music and the sound of gospel have influenced virtually every form of music across the globe. So, as an indigenous art form of America and Alabama, it is only appropriate that it be featured so prominently in these World Games.”

Dr. Henry Panion, Artistic Director, TWG22 (Quote from Billboard Magazine)

The World Games 2022 musical lineup

Iconic Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, Bootsy Collins, will be the master of ceremonies the opening and closing ceremonies at Protective Stadium.

The opening and closing ceremonies will be held at Protective Stadium on the first and last day of The Games. You can expect acts from artists that include:

• Nelly
• Yolanda Adams
• Alabama
• Jamey Johnson
• Sheila E
• The Blind Boys of Alabama
• Sara Evans
• Martha Reeves
• Pastor Mike Jr.
• Tony! Toni! Tone!
• Yung Bleu
• Bo Bice
• Taylor Hicks
• Ruben Studdard

Who are you most excited to see on The World Games 2022 musical lineup? Tag us @BhamNow and let us know. Don’t forget to sign up for our FREE newsletter.