Tyla performs "water" and iconic dance moves at Global Citizen, fans react

South African pop sensation Tyla took the stage for the first time at Global Citizen in New York, marking a milestone in her fast-rising career. For those unfamiliar, Global Citizen is a global advocacy movement that uses music and entertainment to raise awareness around pressing issues like poverty, climate change, and social justice, bringing together artists and fans from around the world for one unforgettable experience.

Tyla delivered a show-stopping performance, treating the audience to some of her biggest hits, including Water, while showcasing her now-famous dance moves, a brilliant fusion of South African Amapiano rhythm and Pretoria’s iconic Barcadi style. Fans were immediately in a frenzy, cheering on , as the pop star proved that her artistry goes beyond just vocals. From her choreography to her styling, Tyla’s stage presence was top-tier, leaving no doubt she’s here to make her mark on the global stage.

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The moment that stole hearts, however, came mid-performance when she noticed a concertgoer struggling. In a move that showed both empathy and grace, Tyla paused the music to ensure the spotlight was on them, creating a truly memorable, human moment that went viral online.

Tyla stopping her performance midway to make sure one of the audience is taken care of. pic.twitter.com/7g6Rx902wa
— teamtyla🐅 (@teamtylaaa) September 28, 2025

Other artists who took the stage included Ayra Starr, the Hot Body hitmaker, and Rema, who shut the place down with Calm Down. the event felt like a full African take over and our pretty girl from Joburg was right there, making history.

The internet hasn’t stopped buzzing about her performance, with fans praising everything from her vocals to her energy and authentic presence. Here’s a roundup of some of the best reactions celebrating Tyla’s Global Citizen debut.

Idc idc! Tyla can act uppity all she wants after her Global Citizens Festival performance last night! Production , choreo, and lights were THERE. She made Ayra Starr come on stage TWICE to try and outdo her. Tyla took home the crown last night. pic.twitter.com/tBXUbCuxv8
— SORÆ (@rashawnsprinkl3) September 28, 2025

Tyla ate her Global Citizen performance!🥺🤌🏾argh my shayla. pic.twitter.com/6twJjnTmSO

— mr giggles (@gingermaraj) September 28, 2025

y'all im genuinely so proud and impressed by tyla's performance,there was so much improvement & you can hear her vocals so clearly +the new choreo ate!!
she tore that whole thing up 😭pic.twitter.com/Ks4Jwchhhf
— ★ (@tylasgirl) September 28, 2025

Tyla showing off her famous ‘Tyla Dance’ at Global Citizen Festival 🔥
pic.twitter.com/31SIaUn8wO
— HipTv (@HipTv) September 28, 2025

Tyla’s delivered an outstanding performance at the Global Citizen Festival ‘25 in New York 🇺🇸🐅 pic.twitter.com/OmarlUpAOp

— Episode77 Africa (@episode77africa) September 28, 2025

Ohhh Goddes WATER, the hit that you will always be

GLOBAL CITIZEN TYLA#GlobalCitizenFestival #TYLAxGlobalCitizen
#TYLA pic.twitter.com/UOEgsNkpgW
— Chun_Suede (@Roman_DaSleeze) September 27, 2025

I love that Tyla focused on her vocal performance for her global citizen performance. I really really really Siracusa hearing her voice more & less distractions on stage. @Tyllaaaaaaa
— destiny reloaded (@destinyreload) September 28, 2025