The Tipsy promoters understood the assignment this year and then some. Responding to patron feedback, they pulled off one of the best-produced All White editions in recent memory. From the smooth entrance process and layout to the well-stocked bars, bustling food court, great stage proximity, and multiple large screens, the event was a near-flawless execution of vibes, visuals, and logistics.
By 3 p.m., patrons were already streaming into the spacious National Botanical Gardens. There was buzz in the air — a mix of excitement and anticipation. Phones flashed as people captured their fits and took up prime vantage points. Dressed in sleek all-white ensembles, men and women made bold fashion statements with cowboy hats, boots, lace, mesh, and festival-chic flair.
The night’s entertainment kicked off with two Barbadian heavyweights: Edwin Yearwood and Lil Rick, who brought early vibes to the stage. Edwin delivered crowd-pleasers like Pump Me Up and Wet Me, while Lil Rick’s signature antics and songs like Call 911, Guh Down, and Blessing had the crowd singing along word for word.
Then came the Trinidadian power couple, Bunji Garlin and Fay-Ann Lyons, who received a roaring welcome. Their set was masterfully curated, featuring individual hits and powerful collaborations like Road Meeting, Big Bad Soca, Carnival Contract, and Carry It. At times, they tag-teamed; other moments saw them vibing in perfect unison. One of the most touching moments came during Bunji’s freestyle, a heartfelt nod to Barbados and his long-standing connection with the island, which drew loud cheers from the crowd.
The Caribbean unity continued with Dominica’s Triple Kay International, whose infectious Bouyon rhythms instantly ignited the grounds. As they performed hits like Whistle While You Work and Allu Like That, the sea of Dominican flags waving proudly in the crowd was a reminder that this wasn’t just a party, it was a regional celebration. The Bouyon energy ramped up even further with appearances from Shelly (Signal Band) and Trilla G, who thrilled with songs like Someone Else and Take Me As I Am.
But the night shifted into overdrive when the lights dimmed around 9:15 p.m. and the familiar bassline of Push to Start rumbled through the speakers. The crowd stilled, then erupted. South African superstar Tyla had arrived.
Performing in Barbados for the first time, Tyla emerged flanked by dancers, her signature moves fluid and confident. Dressed in pinstriped blue shorts, a flowing lace-trimmed blouse, and clear high-fashion heels, she glistened under the lights, effortlessly elegant. The energy was electric. Screams pierced the night, phones lit up, and fans surged toward the stage, some visibly emotional.
Her set was a dream for fans, featuring ART, Jump, Water, and the now-iconic Push to Start. Between songs, she shouted, “Barbados! It’s so good to be here!” And you could feel she meant it. Even patrons unfamiliar with her music showed love, a rare moment of unity from a notoriously hard-to-please crowd.
In a heartfelt local welcome, Jus Jay brought her into a Bajan segment filled with carnival favourites like Problem Child’s Holiday and Alison Hinds’ Togetherness. Backed by local dancers, Tyla showcased her “active” waistline to roars of approval.
One crowd favourite every year is the Jus Jay and Friends segment, and this year’s lineup hit hard. Jus Jay, ever the champion of local music, assembled a mix of familiar names and breakout stars: Grateful Co, Quon, Jordan English, Jagwa De Champ, Mole, and Leadpipe & Saddis.
Newcomer Boar mashed up the big stage with his viral hit One Eyeball, while Jordan English proved he’s officially in his performance era. His energy was unmatched, his charisma real, and Darkers is undoubtedly a serious Road March contender. The segment closed with the ever-consistent Leadpipe, who brought the house down with Tek Charge. Side note: Leadpipe is exactly who he thinks he is.
And then, to seal the night with fire: Machel Montano. The soca king gave his signature 10/10 performance, opening with Trinidad and Tobago’s 2024 Road March winner Pardy and diving into a monster catalogue — E.P.I.C., Happiest Man Alive, The Truth, Like A Boss, Fast Wine, Big Truck and more. Each track hit harder than the last, a nonstop reminder of why he still reigns supreme.
As the night drew to a close, two Kenyan patrons, Anastacia and Elizabeth, shared their thoughts with Barbados TODAY.
“Our expectations were exceeded,” said Elizabeth. “It was something different. I came for Tyla, but Machel really impressed me. I’ve been listening to more of his music lately, so I could really vibe with it. It was an interesting experience.”
From start to finish, Tipsy All White 2025 delivered a seamless production. If this is the new standard, then in 2026, Tipsy won’t just need to match it, they’ll have to transcend it.
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