Rio de Janeiro, accustomed to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, experienced a unique event as Madonna graced the city with her presence for one night only.
Over a million people converged on Copacabana beach on Saturday night, transforming its expansive sands into a colossal dance floor for the pop star’s free concert, marking the culmination of her world tour.
“Here we are in the most beautiful place in the world,” Madonna, 65, told the tightly packed crowd. Pointing out the ocean view and the mountains, she added: “This place is magic.”
In anticipation of the event, excitement swept through the city, with fans gathering outside the esteemed Copacabana Palace Hotel, hoping to catch a glimpse of the star. The city’s airport accommodated approximately 170 additional flights as enthusiasts flocked from around the globe.
City officials estimated a turnout of 1.6 million attendees, with some spectators enjoying the spectacle from illuminated apartments or hotels overlooking the beach, while others observed from motorboats and sailboats nearby.
Amidst drones and helicopters hovering above, Madonna delivered a mesmerizing performance, showcasing a repertoire that spanned from classics like “Like a Virgin” to “Like a Prayer,” accompanied by numerous stage and costume changes.
Beginning with her 1998 hit “Nothing Really Matters,” the singer received thunderous applause from the crowd, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening.
In a poignant moment, Madonna paid tribute to those lost to AIDS during her rendition of “Live to Tell,” accompanied by a backdrop of black-and-white photos featuring individuals affected by the illness.
Joining the pop icon were Brazilian artists Anitta and Pabllo Vittar, along with emerging talents from samba schools, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere.
Described as the largest event in her four-decade career by Madonna’s official website, the concert featured giant screens and 18 sound towers strategically placed along the beach to ensure an immersive experience for the audience.
Fans, many of whom queued for hours or even days, lauded Madonna’s performance as unparalleled and unforgettable, underscoring the magnitude of the event.
City authorities, mindful of safety concerns following a tragic incident at a Taylor Swift concert last year, took precautions by deploying firefighters to cool down attendees with water sprays and providing free drinking water amidst temperatures of around 27°C (81°F).
With more than 3,000 police officers on duty and extensive security measures in place, Rio brimmed with anticipation throughout the week, with businesses capitalizing on the occasion and the local economy expected to benefit significantly from the concert’s economic impact.