Kes the Band Brings Soca to Central Park

On July 5 and 6, 2025, Kes the Band turned Central Park’s SummerStage into a Caribbean island of love by delivering two unforgettable nights of music, culture and unity. With thousands of fans waving flags from Trinidad, Jamaica, Barbados, Guyana, Grenada, Haiti and beyond, the park transformed into a sea of vibrant colors and island pride. 

For the second year in a row, Kes brought soca to the heart of New York City and the city responded with love. Wearing a custom “I Love NY” Knicks jersey, Kes took the stage with infectious energy, uniting the Caribbean diaspora and all five boroughs through the soul-shaking power of soca. From the moment he stepped out, his charisma, signature wine, and magnetic presence pulled everyone into the rhythm. Whether it was his smooth waistline or his joyful smile, Kes proved once again that he doesn't just perform, he connects.

Backed by his band and Trinidad's national instrument, the steel pan, Kes kept the tempo high and spirits higher. Fan favorites like “Hello,” “Wotless,” and “Savannah Grass” had the crowd singing every word, while newer hits like “Coco Tea” showcased his continued evolution as an artist. His vocals soared, the band was on point, and the energy never dipped. “Soca is medicine,” he shouted to the crowd. 

As Kes spoke on the state of Caribbean music, he said,  “Soca is in good hands” and he even brought out some up and coming artists to prove it. Artists like Coutain, Naliah Blackman, Raymond Ramnarine, Lord Nelson, David Rudder and many more, joined Kes on stage. His spotlight on emerging voices wasn’t just a gesture, it was a call to celebrate where Caribbean music has been and where it’s going. 

But Kes didn’t stop at soca. His genre-blending sets paid tribute to the full spectrum of West Indian sound. He mashed up a reggae classic with a cover of Shaggy’s “Boombastic,” before diving into a chutney segment featuring “Jep Sting Naina” by Drupatee and Ravi B.  It was a sonic journey through the Caribbean diaspora, a reminder that this region’s music is as diverse as its people. 

By the end of the night, sweat-soaked fans were still dancing, hands still waving, flags still flying. And in true Caribbean fashion, the party didn’t stop.  Outside the gates of Central Park, the celebration spilled into the streets with an impromptu fete under the city lights. Someone queue No No We Eh Going Home by Tambu.