PARIS: A “once-in-a-generation” global music event kicked off on Saturday with Korean megastars BTS and Elton John launching Global Citizen Live — 24 hours of shows around the world to raise awareness on climate change, vaccine equality and famine.

The “Rocketman” got things going in Paris, performing hits including “Tiny Dancer” and “This is Your Song” in front of the Eiffel Tower in a dazzling green suit, despite a recent hip injury.

The broadcast on social media opened with a pre-recorded performance by BTS in Seoul.

Live performances were due from Billie Eilish, Coldplay and Jennifer Lopez in New York’s Central Park, where Britain’s Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will also be on stage.

Ed Sheeran will play in Paris alongside Black Eyed Peas and Stormzy, while Stevie Wonder is headlining in Los Angeles.

“There has never been a greater need for advocacy than right now,” said Bollywood star Priyanka Chopra, hosting the live broadcast from Paris.

Global Citizen says it wants one billion trees planted, one billion vaccines delivered to the poorest countries and meals for 41 million people on the brink of famine.

Tens of thousands of spectators are due to attend the biggest concerts, on condition of vaccination proof or negative Covid tests. This week’s comeback gig by The Fugees in New York — their first in 15 years — was also shown as part of the event.

Published in Dawn, September 26th, 2021