Kanye West returned to China in dramatic fashion on July 11, 2025, delivering a sold-out performance at Shanghai Stadium—his first concert in the city since 2008.
The long-anticipated show drew an estimated 72,000 fans, making it one of the largest hip-hop concerts in China’s history. Taking the stage in a casual gray hoodie and leather pants, West powered through a setlist that spanned his decades-long career. Signature tracks like “POWER,” “Can’t Tell Me Nothing,” “Blood on the Leaves,” and “Famous” ignited massive singalongs from the crowd.
Ye, known for switching up his lyrics with the times, added fresh twists to familiar verses, prompting waves of excitement from longtime fans. Clips posted online captured his commanding presence and the crowd’s raucous reception.
This marks West’s first full concert in China in 16 years, following a 2024 listening session held in Haikou. Within hours of announcing the Shanghai date, more than 60,000 users registered interest through Damai, China’s major ticketing platform. That surge reflected not only anticipation for his return but also his lasting cultural relevance despite public controversies in recent years.
Kanye West Shanghai Concert
The Shanghai concert reaffirmed West’s global reach and influence. It also signaled a renewed phase in his international touring presence, as he reestablishes his footprint across Asia. Fans worldwide acknnowledged Ye's longevity following the latest performance going viral.
Reviewing the setlist, a fan tweeted, "Between Ye performing 'Black Skkkn Head' and ending his concert playing 'Heil Hitler' for the sold out 72,000 capacity Shanghai, China Stadium… …It was a historic cultural moment that harkened back to the good old days of Shanghai."
The fan would also clarify which version of "Heil Hitler" Ye performed in a follow-up tweet. The alternate version, they shared, "Yes folks it is NOT the original explicit 'Heil Hitler' version, it’s the edited “Hallelujah” version of “Heil Hitler” It’s essentially the same song. Hallelujah was chosen because it sounds exactly like Heil Hitler. I’m baffled by the cope on this."
Ye is currently working on several new ablums, including WWIII.
