New York City’s Central Park was alive with music and passion as South Africa’s own Tyla took the stage at the Global Citizen Festival 2025.
Performing in front of more than 60,000 people, the Grammy Award–winning star blended amapiano, pop, and R&B into a performance that proved why she’s one of the most talked-about voices in global music right now.
A Powerful Setlist with Surprises
Tyla kicked off her set with Is It from her recent EP We Wanna Party, instantly grabbing the crowd’s attention.
She then rolled through favorites like Truth or Dare and Dynamite, her popular collaboration with Nigerian superstar Wizkid.
The energy was electric as fans danced along, but Tyla also treated the audience to a preview of unreleased music, keeping everyone guessing about what she might drop next.
A Pause for Compassion
The night’s most unforgettable moment came when Tyla was performing her Grammy-winning hit Water.
Spotting a fan in distress, she immediately stopped the music, refusing to continue until help arrived.
Once the situation was safe, she reassured the crowd and reignited the performance with even more passion.
“Now we’re gonna scream,” she told the audience — and Central Park erupted in unison.
It was a defining scene of the evening, showing her heart as much as her artistry.
More Hits and a Tease of the Future
Her set kept the momentum going with Art, Shake Ah, Thata Ahh, and Mr Media.
Fans roared when she teased a new track, believed to be called Chanel.
For her finale, Tyla closed with Jump and the explosive Push 2 Start.
The applause that followed was nothing short of deafening.
Tyla Speaks on Representation
Backstage, Tyla reflected on what the night meant for her and her home country.
“This stage is proof that African voices belong everywhere,” she said. “I’m proud to represent South Africa.”
Her words carried weight — Tyla is no longer just a breakout star; she’s becoming a global ambassador for African music.
A Festival of Global Stars
The Global Citizen Festival wasn’t just about Tyla.
The lineup sparkled with performances from Shakira, Cardi B, Ayra Starr, Mariah the Scientist, and even a special appearance by BLACKPINK’s Rosé.
The event was hosted by Hugh Jackman for the eleventh consecutive year, joined by Adam Lambert, Danai Gurira, and Bill Nye, according to CBS News.
Music for a Cause
Beyond the music, the festival lived up to its mission of creating change.
Organizers announced that the event raised R3.7 billion for global causes.
The funds will go toward expanding energy access for more than a million people in Africa, protecting rainforests in the Amazon, and supporting education programs for children worldwide.
Tyla’s Global Moment
For Tyla, this wasn’t just another performance — it was a milestone.
From stopping her show to help a fan, to commanding one of the world’s biggest stages, she proved she’s more than a rising star.
She’s a global voice of her generation, carrying African music and culture onto the world stage.