Kingston, Jamaica: The Bank of Jamaica Auditorium pulsed with excitement on Friday, June 27, 2025, as the finalists of the Jamaica Festival Song Competition 2025 delivered spirited performances during a vibrant Lunch Hour Concert, hosted in collaboration with the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC).
The midday event drew a full audience of staff, music enthusiasts, and members of the public, all eager to witness the first live showcase of this year’s Festival Song finalists. The performances were filled with energy, patriotism, and creativity, each artiste proudly presenting their original entry with confidence and flair.
Gracing the stage were Jules Clarke, Askia, N Rich, Jonah, Loaded Eagle, Oliver Ashley, Abi-D, Bredda C and Jegz, and Christopher Laing. Their songs spanned a wide range of genres and styles, reflecting the diversity of Jamaican music and the shared cultural pride that lies at the heart of the competition.
Audience members responded enthusiastically, with dancing, singing along, and thunderous applause filling the auditorium. The event offered a welcome cultural treat during the lunch hour and served to build momentum ahead of the grand coronation of the 2025 Festival Song winner.
The Festival Song Competition, a cornerstone of Jamaica’s Independence celebrations, continues to provide a platform for both emerging and established artistes to express national pride and contribute to the country’s musical legacy.
The excitement now builds for the Festival Song Presentation Show—a televised event set for Saturday, July 12, where this year’s finalists will be introduced. The energy then carries into the grand finals on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at Emancipation Park in Kingston.
The public is invited to come out and cheer on their favourite contestants in what promises to be a spectacular evening of music and national pride. Admission is free, so bring your flags, your friends, and your festive spirit for a true celebration of Jamaica through song.
Stay tuned to the JCDC’s social media platforms for updates and voting information.
