Dozens of stars from the world of showbusiness have honoured Nelson Mandela with a giant birthday bash.

Stevie Wonder was among the big-name artists at the Radio City Music Hall in Manhattan, New York, on Saturday evening to mark the Nobel Peace Prize winner’s 91st year. African singer Angelique Kidjo and American performer Alicia Keys were there to pay tribute to the former South African president as was actor Morgan Freeman who said: ‘‘If the world had to choose just one father, it would choose Nelson Mandela.’‘ In a video message, the former South African leader said: ‘‘Mandela Day will not be a holiday but a day devoted to service. It is our hope that people will dedicate their time and effort to improve the conditions within their own community.’‘ The first lady of France, model turned singer Carla Bruni Sarkozy, also got in on the act with British musician Dave Stewart, while US hip hop singer Wyclef Jean, formally of the Fugees, got the house rocking. ‘The Queen of Soul’ Aretha Franklin was also on hand, performing with American singer Josh Groban. The ‘Mandela Day’ gala crowns a week of celebrations honouring the legendary South African rights activist.More about: Anniversary, South Africa

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