Tyla Shines at Global Citizen Festival 2025

At this year’s Global Citizen Festival in New York’s Central Park, Tyla delivered a performance that reminded everyone why she’s one of South Africa’s brightest global stars. Her set wasn’t just about the music; it was about connection, vulnerability, and power.

Midway through her performance of the Grammy-winning hit “Water,” Tyla paused when she spotted a fan in distress. Stopping the music, she called for staff to help and asked the crowd whether she should restart the song. The audience roared in support, and when she picked up the performance again, it felt even more electric. It was a moment that showed her authenticity and care for her fans, rare qualities that set her apart on such massive stages.

Later, Tyla used her song “Mr Media” to send a bold message to her critics. Declaring “I’m not sorry” during the set, she leaned into defiance and self-assurance, reclaiming her narrative in front of a global audience. It was a powerful statement that turned the performance into more than entertainment it became an act of self-expression and resilience.

Of course, the music spoke for itself. Her signature track “Water” turned Central Park into what Billboard called “a lively dance floor,” with the crowd swaying and singing along to every note. Her ability to command a stage of that scale with such ease cements her place as an international star who’s only getting started.

Tyla’s Global Citizen performance was more than just a highlight of the festival it was proof of her artistry, her connection with fans, and her unwavering confidence. She not only owned the stage, but she also owned the narrative