On Tuesday (May 18), British Nigerian singer and actress Cynthia Erivo performed “What The World Needs Now Is Love” made popular by Jackie DeShannon at the Walt Disney Company’s 2021 Upfront presentation!
The Tony, Grammy and Emmy award-winning actress, who recently starred in the National Geographic limited series about legendary Aretha Franklin, Genius:Aretha, opened up the star-studded festivities which also featured Paul McCartney, Garth Brooks and many other music icons.
Cynthia, who is also known for her stunning role in Harriet, kicked off the presentation with her heart-warming cover in an empty theater.
“We have this moment together. Let’s fill it with hope, laughter, inspiration and love,” she said before the pianist began playing the 1965 classic.
“I love being part of the Disney family, and it was an honor to open their annual Upfront presentation with ‘What the World Needs Now Is Love. It’s a beautiful song, one of my favorites, and its message is as meaningful now as when the song premiered 55 years ago“, continued the singer.
Originally “What The World Needs Now Is Love” was written by Hal David and Burt Bacharach, who also produced the song. It instantly became a hit and reached #7 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It received the Towering Song Awards from the Songwriters Hall Of Fame in 2004.
#Peace.Love.CynthiaErivo
