Dis Is Rick 2025 was an electrifying celebration of Caribbean music, culture and unity, ‘Ignite’-ing the Philip Blagrove Training Field at the Garfield Sobers Sports Complex in Wildey, St Michael.
Man of the moment, Lil Rick, also known as Hypa Dawg, set the tone as he opened the show, bringing his signature energy to a night that would be remembered for years to come.
The evening kicked off shortly after 9 p.m. with the deejays warming up the eager crowd, creating an infectious vibe that had everyone ready to party.
At 11:30 p.m., the stage burst alive with the Chihuahua Businessman, who got straight to business with classic hits. As the crowd swelled, the first line-up hit the stage with Cultural Ambassador The Most Honourable Stedson Red Plastic Bag Wiltshire, followed by Gorg and Coopa Dan.
Nikita lit up the stage with her sultry rendition of Tequila, captivating the audience, while Summa kept the energy high with her latest hit Rose, getting ladies singing along. Sprinklezz made her debut on the Dis Is Rick stage.
Edwin then took a soulful turn with Somethin’ Greater Than Me, before shifting gears into party mode with Yardie and Sak Pase, which had everyone dancing and doing the signature moves. The crowd’s excitement peaked as Peter Ram delivered patriotic anthems like Crop Over Good Morning and All Ah We. This man needs a spot in the Soca Hall of Fame.
The versatile performer dropped a dub rendition, accompanied by his acrobatic dancer, fuelling the night’s energy. Queen of soca Alison Hinds then took to the stage, electrifying the crowd with hits like Faluma, spreading good vibes and camaraderie. She later teamed up with Mikey, who she called the Prince of Pace, to perform their 2025 hit Show Me Love, which had the crowd singing along.
Mikey transitioned seamlessly into Come Together, urging everyone to Roll It, as the band took a brief break at 1 a.m. Master of ceremonies Jamarr The Star then signalled the start of Part 2 at 1:40 a.m., reigniting the energy.
Regional stars kept the momentum with Kerwin Du Bois performing Bacchanalist, Too Real, Right For Somebody and D Influence. Lil Rick joined Kerwin for crowd favourite Monster Winer, and together they declared, “For today, we shut it down!”
Suddenly, the venue went dark – a dramatic pause before Nailah Blackman appeared in a stunning purple bodysuit. Her energy was contagious, as she danced and sang some of her well known tunes. She showed off her squatting techniques and invited two women from the crowd to join her onstage.
Her Come Home, an anthem for many Carnivals, was appropriate as the crowd roared in appreciation, welcoming her to Barbados.
As the moright reached its peak, the crowd surged forward for Yung Bredda’s The Greatest Ben Ova, with him joining the party near the VIP fence. His covers of Ben E. King’s Stand By Me and others kept the energy soaring, with fans eagerly looking in vain for a possible appearance by the legendary The Most Honourable Anthony Mighty Gabby Carter for Dr Cassandra. They had to settle for Fadda Fox for their 2025 collaboration Hello Mr Badmind.
At 2:35 a.m., Lil Rick returned with Mind Off, a reflection on envy and its destructive nature. The crowd was then stunned by an impromptu performance from Hazzard Weekes of the Barbados Defence Force, who delivered a flawless rendition of All Is Rum, even leading a drinking pledge, much to everyone’s amusement.
The stage then transformed into a showcase of local talents, with Bubba, Shanta, Faith, who had the crowd hyped with Bajan Code, and Tionne Hernandez – swiftly making the stage her own. Marzville was next (joined by Cash and Da Silva with their own contribution) as Marzville then paid homage to the late Alvin Toppin with Goodness Of God, bringing a soulful moment that touched everyone.
Lil Natty and Thundah kept the vibe lively with Top Striker, encouraging everyone to raise something in the air as they prepared for the road. They followed with Real Bad Drink Rum From the Calabash,
a true carnival anthem.
Next, Grateful Co brought his signature charm, handing roses to women and bringing Shaquille onstage. Hypasounds arrived at 3:30 a.m., energising the crowd with his dynamic performance alongside Azizi Clarke.
As the clock struck 4 a.m., the stage erupted into a collective “Avengers assembling” moment. Jordan English, Mole, Leadpipe, Saddis and Brucelee Almightee performed solo and then joined forces – culminating in a seamless blend of their hits that embodied unity and love. Rick himself joined the group, creating a controlled chaos of musical camaraderie that perfectly closed the night.
Dis Is Rick 2025 was a testament to the power of music to bring people together, celebrating Caribbean culture with a line-up of legendary performances, fresh energy, and unforgettable moments.
Fans left the Philip Blagrove Training Field with hearts full and spirits lifted, already counting down to next year’s edition.
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