Star turns and social message

The Global Citizen Festival returned to New York with blockbuster sets as Shakira delivered a high-energy performance and Cardi B powered through a viral, candid set. The lineup’s late changes kept buzz high, while organizers tied pledges to poverty, health and climate initiatives. Fans packed Central Park for a televised spectacle that mixed chart hits with calls to action, a formula the festival has honed to convert attention into commitments from governments and brands.

Why this matters for live music and advocacy

The event underscores how cause-driven festivals compete for cultural mindshare in a crowded calendar. For labels, the stage acts as a global showcase ahead of Q4 releases; for NGOs, it’s a rare chance to frame policy asks in front of millions. With social clips traveling fast, standout moments can lift streaming numbers and amplify fundraising targets. The challenge is durability—turning one-night awareness into measurable follow-through over the next year.