Kicking off her headlining set with her seminal hit “She Wolf,” Shakira captivated the Global Citizen crowd with an explosive entrance, introducing the “10 Commandments of the She-Wolf” and featuring a jaw-dropping visual that saw her morph between human and wolf. The Colombian superstar then kept the energy roaring with a mix of classic hits and empowering new tracks, reminding everyone why she’s a pop culture icon.

Cardi B brought boss energy — and an unmistakable Bronx swagger — despite being heavily pregnant. Opening her set with “Outside” from her brand new album Am I the Drama? (ErrTime Edition), Cardi cranked up the energy surrounded by dynamic dancers. In a power move, she tossed her leather biker crop top into the audience with the unapologetic declaration, “I’m hot AF up here.” Closing her very quick set with “I Like It,” Cardi left everyone wanting more.

ROSÉ, BLACKPINK’s luminous vocalist and guitarist, enchanted the audience with a dreamy, stripped-down set that blended indie-rock aesthetics and pop polish. Sporting platinum blonde hair and a floey pinkish dress — standing under a canopy of lights — her emotional vocals on fan favorites like “On The Ground” struck a chord with the crowd. Her ethereal performance showed a softer yet powerful side of the festival lineup.

Afrobeats took over the festival when Ayra Starr and Nigerian superstar Rema joined forces for a surprise appearance. Together they performed “Baby (Is it a Crime),” with Starr filling in for Sade’s part. They also sang “Calm Down.” But the highlight came when they asked the audience to turn on their phone flashlights creating a breathtaking sea of light across Central Park.

Earlier that day, Ayra Starr delivered her solo energetic set that featured stunning choreography that kept the crowd engaged while her wardrobe — a stylish ensemble of cute white shorts matching top classic Tims and gold chain accents — added a touch of effortless cool to her overall look.

South African star Tyla stole the show with her performance of “Water,” transforming Central Park into a lively dance floor. When her set was briefly interrupted to attend to a fest-goer in need of help Tyla paused to ensure everyone was okay. She then asked the audience if they wanted her to restart the song — and of course they enthusiastically agreed. Performing the track twice she captivated the crowd with her energy and charm. Sporting knee-high Converse shoes and her signature casual-cool style she solidified her status as a rising star to watch.

Colombian pop crooner Camilo brought warmth and joy to the festival with his breezy acoustic set. Dressed in a mustard knitted shirt and baggy jeans adorned with cloud patches he delivered fan favorites like “Tutu” and “Vida de Rico,” blending pop optimism with tropical sounds. Leading the crowd to clap to the irresistible rhythms of “Agua Salada,” Camilo’s performance was a heartfelt tribute to his roots and his global fans. He later surprised the crowd by bringing out his wife Evaluna sweeping her off her feet — literally — as he carried her on stage much to the audience’s delight!

Mariah the Scientist arrived at the Global Citizen stage donning a bold military-inspired look — a green helmet short shorts a bullet chain draped across her chest and a sparkly fuchsia mic. The Atlanta-born R&B star treated the crowd to her sultry vocals with songs like the tender “Spread Thin,” showcasing her emotional depth. Her unique blend of vintage R&B vibes and futuristic visuals made her set a standout moment of the night.