John Legend on Friday, February 21, delivered a show-stopping performance at BK Arena in Kigali at the second edition of Global Citizen’s Move Afrika, a touring circuit bringing global superstars to the continent, marking his first-ever performance in East Africa...and he made sure it was one for the books. “I’m so happy to be in Kigali—first-ever performance in East Africa, and I couldn’t be happier. We’re here because we love you, feel connected to you. It’s a thrill. I love your energy, keep it going,” Legend told the crowd as he sat behind his piano, bathed in blue stage lighting, with cheers erupting around him. WATCH: John Legend pours his heart into ‘All of Me,’ and the crowd sings every word right back!: @MucyoWakera pic.twitter.com/av90hVcX7e — The New Times (Rwanda) (@NewTimesRwanda) February 21, 2025 >http:// WATCH: John Legend pours his heart into ‘All of Me,’ and the crowd sings every word right back!: @MucyoWakera pic.twitter.com/av90hVcX7e — The New Times (Rwanda) (@NewTimesRwanda) February 21, 2025 Backed by a full live band, the American musician delivered flawless renditions of his hits, ensuring they sounded just as polished as their studio versions. When “Minefields,” his collaboration with Faouzia, came on, the arena transformed into a sea of smartphone lights as fans sang along word for word. “Tonight (Best You Ever Had)” featuring Ludacris was another standout moment. Despite being released over a decade ago, the crowd’s chants made it feel as fresh as ever. I am so proud to be here for my first-ever performance in East #Africa and #Rwanda. We are here because we love you. – John Legend: @Dankwizera1 pic.twitter.com/oJZFcIYYTY — The New Times (Rwanda) (@NewTimesRwanda) February 21, 2025 >http:// I am so proud to be here for my first-ever performance in East #Africa and #Rwanda. We are here because we love you. – John Legend: @Dankwizera1 pic.twitter.com/oJZFcIYYTY — The New Times (Rwanda) (@NewTimesRwanda) February 21, 2025 One of the night’s most striking elements was Legend’s attention to detail in his stage presence. He stepped onto the stage in a custom all-white suit by Rwandan fashion powerhouse Moshions, accented with splashes of blue paint. The design paid homage to Rwandan tradition, incorporating the Umukenyero silhouette, shields as cufflinks, and a larger shield draped over his right shoulder. After a brief interlude with his band keeping the energy high, the stage turned red, and Legend returned in a sleek black suit with gold accents. He launched into “Feeling Good,” one of his most beloved songs. By this time, the clock had passed 10, and excitement grew as attendees spotted President Kagame among the audience. The show’s most intimate moment came when a spotlight shone on Legend, now alone at his piano. “Twenty years later, I want you to sing this with me,” he said before playing “Ordinary People.” His duet “Like I’m Gonna Lose You” with Meghan Trainor also resonated deeply, as he reminded the audience never to take love for granted. The night was filled with highlights, including performances of “All She Wanna Do” and “Bigger Love.” As the set neared its end, he introduced his band and backup singers, giving them their well-earned recognition. HAPPENING: John Legend hits the stage in an all-white ensemble, flawlessly designed by Rwandan fashion icon MoshionsThe crowd erupts as he begins his performance. pic.twitter.com/vhtywVXf9n — The New Times (Rwanda) (@NewTimesRwanda) February 21, 2025 >http:// HAPPENING: John Legend hits the stage in an all-white ensemble, flawlessly designed by Rwandan fashion icon MoshionsThe crowd erupts as he begins his performance. pic.twitter.com/vhtywVXf9n — The New Times (Rwanda) (@NewTimesRwanda) February 21, 2025 At 10:55 PM, the stage went dark, but the crowd wasn’t ready to say goodbye. In unison, they chanted “All of Me! All of Me!” And just when it seemed like the show had ended, Legend returned alone to the piano for a heartfelt performance of the ballad, with thousands of phone lights illuminating the arena. Still not done, he brought the full band back for “Wild” featuring Gary Clark Jr., closing the night on a high note. Meanwhile, Chrissy Teigen was spotted near the stage, greeting fans as she walked off. But the night wasn’t just about Legend. DJ TOXXYK and Bwiza kept the energy high throughout the over five-hour spectacle, proving that the Move Afrika movement is only growing stronger. Throughout the show, past performances and advocacy messages played on the screens—setting the stage for another incredible edition next year.
