When I first heard that the Wickie Wackie Festival was returning this year after last year’s incredible edition, I knew World A Reggae had to be there again. And when I saw the stellar lineup, that feeling only got stronger. Once again, I wasn’t disappointed.
This year’s edition spanned two days. The first day, Friday, was dedicated to sound system culture. For the visitors, that meant relaxing, drinking a beer, smoking a spliff, and holding a vibes in Uncle Ronnie’s yard, while soaking in the sounds of Uncle Ronnie, Gabre Selassie from Kingston Dub Club, Natural High Music, and international selectors like SoundQuake, Silly Walks Disco, Supersonic (Germany), Satta Sound (Montpelier, Vermont), and Uhuru Sound (Belgium). Those new to sound system culture also got a taste of a friendly dubplate showcase from Supersonic and SoundQuake.
The second day, as expected, was one for the books. Kumar and his team proved that Jamaica is ready for a tourist-filled reggae festival on the beautiful shores of Bull Bay. With visitors from across the globe, the festival drew a good crowd who witnessed performances from over 20 artists, supported by selectors Carter Van Pelt, DJ Irie, Dutty Bookman, and Rory StoneLove.
The day started around midday with up-and-coming artists like Ojah, Ken Ellis, Empress Ayeola, Kenny Vanilla, Soul Rebel, and Sailor Jane, alongside the legendary Alpha Boys School Band—a brilliant showcase of reggae’s next generation.
Just after Alpha Boys School delivered an energetic performance, the crowd was treated to authentic roots reggae from Tennshann Invasion, followed by Earl ‘Chinna’ Smith’s Binghistra Movement, featuring Quan Dajai and two other artists whose names, unfortunately, slipped my mind.
By the time the reggae ambassadors Third World stepped on stage (including Richard Daley on percussions), the festival grounds were packed. The veterans delivered a stellar performance, proving once again why they remain one of reggae’s greatest live bands, all while introducing the next generation of Third World.
Adding more classic roots energy to the evening, the one and only ‘Devil Chaser’, Max Romeo, gave the crowd an unforgettable performance. He took things up another level by bringing his son, Azzizi, and daughter, Xana, on stage, blending the essence of traditional roots reggae with a modern touch.
To close the night, Kumar took the stage—and he didn’t come alone. The audience was treated to an all-star lineup, featuring Kelly Shane, Christopher Ellis, Ras-I, Khalia, Kuzikk, Jesse Royal, and Protoje—a fitting grand finale to an already unforgettable festival.
Looking to the Future
To sum it up, this year’s Wickie Wackie Festival was another great event to experience. Of course, there’s always room for improvement, but that’s how you build a firm foundation (Didn’t Kumar sing
“Rastaman built up his temple on a firm foundation?” The groundwork has been laid, and now it’s time to look ahead to 2026, anticipating even greater developments.
I strongly encourage Jamaican and international brands to connect with the Wickie Wackie team. More importantly, the Ministry of Tourism and the Jamaica Tourist Board should take note—this festival and campsite concept has the potential to become a global haven for reggae lovers.
A big thank you to Kumar and the entire Wickie Wackie team for the hospitality. I truly enjoyed another great event, and I hope to return next year to witness the growth. Well done!
The pictures will follow soon… Impressions of the shows can be seen on our Instagram page.
By Danny Creatah
