Jay Z To Perform At Global Citizen Festival 2014 ‘To End Extreme Poverty By 2030’

The Global Citizen Festival is back and the all-star line-up has fans chomping at the bit. This year’s show, which is organized by the Global Poverty Project will hit New York’s Central Park Great Lawn on September 27th, the Rolling Stone reports.

It may almost seem like a twist of irony that so many big-name acts with so much extravagant wealth would lend their hand to a cause such as the Global Citizen Festival, which is transparent about its duty to eradicate extreme poverty by 2030. However, big names listed on the docket this year include Jay Z, No Doubt, Carrie Underwood, The Roots, and dance music veteran Tiësto. In a statement released by Jay Z earlier, he reconciles why he chose to become involved with this cause:

“Change only takes place when and where there is action. I’m joining the 2014 Global Citizen Festival because I believe through actions, whether it be by raising awareness, getting involved or educating ourselves, the goal to end extreme poverty by 2030 is possible.”

Perhaps even more impressive is the fact that the Global Citizen Festival has brought together the members of No Doubt, who have been on an extended hiatus from performing together. Their last live show the band did together was two years ago. Tony Kanal, the bassist and co-founder of No Doubt, explains to Rolling Stone why No Doubt chose to co-headline the Global Music Festival with Jay Z:

“It was such an honor to be asked to play this particular concert. It’s unacceptable that over 1 billion people live in extreme poverty, and it’s got a pretty eclectic lineup, which reflects the event’s true spirit of diversity.”

This festival coincides with the United Nations General Assembly, which convenes in New York at the same time each year, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The Global Poverty Project is headed up by Hugh Evans and the primary objective is to help end world poverty by 2030. Hugh released the following statement regarding the cause:

“It’s been fantastic to see the growth of the movement over the past three years, and this year will be our biggest yet. We are incredibly grateful and humbled to have the support of these amazing artists who are at the top of their respective genres, and who share our passion of making a positive change in the world.”

Last year, music industry heavy-hitters John Mayer, Alicia Keys, Stevie Wonder, and the Kings of Leon took over the stage at the 2013 Global Citizen Festival. This year’s show will be the third annual Global Citizen Festival and admission can be gained at the website GlobalCitizen.org. Check out the website for more details on how you can be involved or earn free admission to the 2014 Global Citizen Project.

[Photo credit: Rolling Stone/Fanpop/Global Poverty Project]