Kanye West’s influence on global hip-hop remains undeniable as he delivered a massive sold-out concert in Shanghai on July 11, 2025, marking his first performance in the city since 2008.

The long-anticipated concert took place at the iconic Shanghai Stadium and attracted an estimated 72,000 fans, making it one of the largest hip-hop events in China’s history. Kanye, dressed casually in a gray hoodie and leather pants, commanded the stage with a setlist that spanned his entire career. Classic anthems like “POWER,” “Can’t Tell Me Nothing,” “Blood on the Leaves,” and “Famous” sent the crowd into a frenzy, with massive sing-alongs highlighting Ye’s enduring connection with his fanbase.

Kanye, famously known for updating his lyrics to reflect his current state of mind, didn’t disappoint. Throughout the night, he delivered fresh, timely twists to familiar verses, sparking excitement across the packed stadium. Fan-recorded clips quickly went viral, showcasing both his stage presence and the electric energy of the Chinese audience.

A Major Milestone for Kanye in China

This concert marked Kanye’s first full-scale show in China in 16 years, following a smaller 2024 listening session in Haikou. Upon announcement of the Shanghai date, over 60,000 fans registered interest via Damai, China’s premier ticketing platform—clear evidence of Kanye’s lasting cultural relevance despite controversies in recent years.

The success of the Shanghai show signals Kanye’s renewed commitment to his global tour presence, particularly within Asia. It reaffirmed his enduring legacy in music and pop culture, as fans across the world celebrated the moment online.

Viral Moments and Fan Reactions

One fan’s post went viral after highlighting standout moments from the show:

“Between Ye performing ‘Black Skinhead’ and ending his concert playing ‘Heil Hitler’ for the sold-out 72,000 capacity Shanghai Stadium… it felt like a historic cultural moment, taking us back to the golden era of Shanghai concerts.”

The fan later clarified in a follow-up tweet that Kanye performed the alternate version of “Heil Hitler,” known as the “Hallelujah” edit—a track retaining the song’s musical structure but swapping controversial lyrics with a chant that phonetically mirrors the original phrase.

“It’s not the explicit version. It’s the edited ‘Hallelujah’ version of ‘Heil Hitler.’ Same song, different wording. People seem confused.”

What’s Next for Kanye West

Currently, Kanye West is reported to be working on multiple upcoming projects, including his much-rumored album WWIII. With the overwhelming success of this concert, it’s clear that Ye’s influence continues to shape music on a global scale—whether through controversy, artistry, or innovation.