South African star Tyla lit up New York City’s Central Park at the Global Citizen Festival 2025.
The Grammy Award winner brought her unique blend of amapiano, pop and R&B to a crowd of 60,000.
TYLA’S SET LIST
Her setlist mixed chart-toppers, fan favourites and even a taste of unreleased music. She opened with Is It from her recent EP, We Wanna Party.
The audience immediately felt her energy. She then rolled into Truth or Dare and Dynamite, her hit collaboration with Nigerian superstar Wizkid.
TYLA CARES FOR A FAN
The most memorable moment came mid-performance of her Grammy-winning single Water. Tyla stopped the music when she noticed a fan in distress. She refused to continue until help arrived.
Once the situation was under control, she restarted with passion. “Now we’re gonna scream,” she told the crowd. The park erupted. It turned into a defining scene of the night.
OTHER HIT SONGS
Tyla’s set also included Art, Shake Ah, Thata Ahh, and Mr Media. Fans cheered loudly when she teased a new track, believed to be called Chanel.
She closed with Jump and the electrifying Push 2 Start. The applause was deafening.
“This stage is proof that African voices belong everywhere,” Tyla said backstage. “I’m proud to represent South Africa.”
STAR-STUDDED PERFORMANCES
The festival also featured Shakira, Cardi B, Ayra Starr, Mariah the Scientist, and a special appearance from BLACKPINK’s Rosé.
Hugh Jackman hosted for the eleventh year, supported by Adam Lambert, Danai Gurira and Bill Nye, according to CBS News.
A GLOBAL CAUSE
Organisers announced R 3.7 billion raised for global causes. The money will fund energy access for over one million people in Africa, rainforest protection in the Amazon, and education for children worldwide.
Tyla’s performance showed her growing influence. She is no longer just a rising artist; she is a global voice of her generation.