Lisa Mugo
Tyla put her performance on hold at the Global Citizen Festival on Saturday at New York’s Central Park to help a fan in distress. This move has gained praise as she displayed care for her fans.
The South African singer, who was in the middle of singing her hit song ‘Water,’ asked that one of the Global Citizen team members go check on a fan who was in the crowd as she pointed at the person. “I think someone needs help here,” she said as she pointed into the crowd. “Guys, they need help over there. Can we stop?” she continued.
The crowd was highly impressed by her move to stop the show and cheered her on as she patiently waited for confirmation that the person was okay before proceeding with her performance and asking her fans if she should start the song from the top.
Tyla’s decision to stop her performance and ensure the safety of a fan has since earned her widespread praise, especially in light of the tragic events at Travis Scott’s Astroworld Festival in 2021, where multiple people died. Her quick response has been hailed as a reflection of her care for her fans.
Other performers who took the Global Citizen Festival stage include Nigeria’s Ayra Starr and Rema, as well as Cardi B, Shakira, Mariah the Scientist, Camilo, Elyanna, Rosé, and Hugh Jackman.
Global Citizen Festival uses music as a platform to rally action toward ending extreme poverty and tackling global challenges, with artists performing for free to support the cause.
Over the years, it has attracted some of the biggest names in music, including Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Coldplay, Rihanna, Usher, Ed Sheeran, Billie Eilish, Lizzo, and Pharrell Williams. Their performances not only entertain but also help drive attention to urgent global issues such as climate change, hunger, and inequality.
Unlike most concerts, fans do not purchase tickets to attend the festival. Instead, they take part in advocacy actions through the Global Citizen website or app. Supporters share campaigns online, sign petitions, email world leaders, and pledge their support for different initiatives. Each action earns them points that go towards a ticket draw where they stand a chance to attend the festival.
