About The 2025 Grace for the World Concert

Pharrell Williams and Maestro Andrea Bocelli co-directed a historic night of gospel, unity, and global music in St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City

A celebration of music and human connection took place on September 13, 2025. The concert, which united gospel harmonies, classical mastery, and international artistry in a single event at St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City, streamed live on Disney+, Hulu, and ABC News. Co-directed by Pharrell Williams and Maestro Andrea Bocelli, the performance closed the third World Meeting on Human Fraternity and celebrated the 2025 Jubilee Year.

Grace for the World

Presented from the heart of Vatican City, Grace for the World featured live performances by Pharrell Williams with the Voices of Fire Gospel Choir, Maestro Andrea Bocelli, Karol G, John Legend, Clipse, Teddy Swims, Jelly Roll, Jennifer Hudson, BamBam, The Choir of the Diocese of Rome led by Maestro Marco Frisina, Angélique Kidjo, plus an international choir assembled for the occasion with musical direction by Adam Blackstone. The concert blended gospel, soul, hip-hop, pop, and classical styles, making for an inclusive soundscape that reflected its message of fraternity.

“This is a rare cultural moment where the world stops and collectively tunes in. It is a message of unity and grace for all of humanity,” said Pharrell Williams. 

"Let us shine a spotlight on humanity with music from the very heart of Christianity and the most important spiritual square, reaching the entire world with a single message of brotherhood and peace," said Maestro Andrea Bocelli.

Beyond the music, the evening showcased reflections from cultural, diplomatic, and sports leaders, plus an aerial drone and light show by Nova Sky Stories inspired by the Sistine Chapel’s artistry.

Who was in the Grace for the World lineup?

Pharrell Williams performed alongside the Voices of Fire Gospel Choir. Maestro Andrea Bocelli brought operatic power, while Jennifer Hudson, Karol G, John Legend, Clipse, Teddy Swims, Jelly Roll, BamBam, and Angélique Kidjo added their distinctive styles. Additional international choristers rounded out the ensemble, making the concert a truly global collaboration.

Who was behind Grace for the World?

Pharrell Williams and Maestro Andrea Bocelli co-directed the production. Executive producers included Williams, Bocelli, Nova Sky Stories, Something in the Water, Solina Chau, Mark and Roma Burnett, and Kimbal Musk. Adam Blackstone served as musical director, with the broadcast produced by Jesse Collins Entertainment and directed by Sam Wrench.