She also performed a surprise cover.
Koreaboo
BLACKPINK’s Rosé took the stage at the 2025 Global Citizen Festival in New York City’s Central Park on September 27. With Hugh Jackman hosting, the event emphasized raising awareness about extreme poverty, world hunger, and the ongoing Gaza crisis.
In front of more than 60,000 people, Rosé delivered a raw acoustic set that exposed her live vocals down to the details. And the reaction online has been overwhelming.
Her performance lasted around 12 minutes, featuring “APT.,” “two years,” a cover of The Cranberries’ “Linger,” and her track “toxic till the end.” Dressed in a flowing pink gown, Rosé created an atmosphere that stood out from the high-energy acts that shared the lineup, including Shakira, Cardi B, and Elyanna.
Palestinian singer Elyanna talks about the crisis in Gaza during her set at Global Citizen. pic.twitter.com/TYBSlhjAJR
— Pop Base (@PopBase) September 27, 2025
What drew the most attention wasn’t just her visuals but her live vocals. Unlike many large-scale pop stages where heavy backing tracks are common, Rosé relied solely on a live band and her own voice. Fans praised the way she leaned into a softer, pop-rock sound, which many felt brought out the best in her tone.
no backtrack. no autotune. no lip syncing. just rosé insane raw vocals pic.twitter.com/AfHIfW6Xvd
— lee five (@jnkamortage) September 28, 2025
this woman truly doesn’t afraid of mic.. the whole performance was just the band, her singing without backtracks, the raw vocals and how genuine she was. A true artist. https://t.co/FdIkLCiye1
— avril enthusiast (@avrilssgirlie) September 28, 2025
ROSÉ did an amazing performance ! Lives vocals, no backtrack, only her and the musicians. This is who she is and always been ! Proud n1s🥹
GLOBAL CITIZEN ROSÉ #GlobalCitizenFestival#ROSÉxGlobalCitizen#ROSÉ pic.twitter.com/ZtzRLy3Fcu
— charlie¹ (@CharliexRosie) September 28, 2025
Her take on “Linger” especially left a strong impression, with listeners pointing out how natural the genre felt for her.
i’m actually speechless..😭😭 pic.twitter.com/BaxLRxIsu0
— rosie (@roseannepics) September 28, 2025
kpop should be grateful for her i’m being serious. https://t.co/Fs3cICugYD
— avril enthusiast (@avrilssgirlie) September 28, 2025
she just sounds so good live IM OBSESSED pic.twitter.com/851eTlITzC
— blackpink (@blckpinkpic) September 28, 2025
Clips of the set quickly spread online, sparking discussions about Rosé’s artistry and the kind of music that resonates most with her. Many agreed that this was a side of her they hope to see more often.
