Reggae Sumfest boss Joe Bogdanovich.
Photo by Anthony “ER Guru” Turner
Reggae Sumfest boss Joe Bogdanovich is all smiles these days, and for good reason.
The final, much-anticipated piece of the Reggae Sumfest 2025 lineup has just been revealed and is seismic. R&B icon Toni Braxton is set to headline International Night 2 on Saturday, July 19, in Montego Bay, Jamaica.
“Her addition marks a bold new chapter for the festival and underscores its growing global appeal,” Bogdanovich told Caribbean Life on Tuesday, May 20, 2025.
“Toni’s soul-drenched vocals and timeless hits introduce a different kind of emotional gravity,” he added. “It’s a bold move that expands the festival’s appeal while staying true to its roots.”
With hits like “Un-Break My Heart,” “Breathe Again,” and “He Wasn’t Man Enough,” Bagdonovich said Braxton’s presence would bring “sultry soul and emotional depth” to the festival, which is traditionally dominated by high-energy dancehall and reggae acts.
He said her performance will stand out at this year’s event.
International Night 1, meanwhile, packs a powerful punch with the inclusion of World Boss Vybz Kartel and dancehall’s rising star Masicka.
“Masicka represents the intellectual core of modern dancehall,” Bogdanovich said. “His lyrical precision, storytelling ability, and conscious approach place him at the forefront of the genre’s new wave.
“Whether he’s delivering street anthems or introspective tracks, he commands the stage with a confidence and clarity that elevate every performance,” he added.
Another much-talked performer is Skeng, whose performance is expected to bring high-octane energy to the stage.
“Skeng brings an unfiltered, kinetic energy that embodies the raw edge of the streets,” Bogdanovich said. “He is the sound of youthful rebellion, his music echoing with the intensity of life in today’s Jamaica.”
Ghanaian Afro-fusion star Moliy, whose breakout hit “Shake It To The Max” is currently one of the biggest songs in Jamaica, is also making waves in the 2025 lineup.
New York-based Jamaican entertainment publicist and marketer Anthony “ER Guru” Turner, who will attend the July 13–19 festival, praised the Sumfest team for Moliy’s inclusion.
“Moliy’s confirmation signals the festival’s embrace of Afrobeat sounds and highlights the shared roots of African and dancehall music,” he told Caribbean Life.
With a lineup spanning continents and genres, Turner said, “Reggae Sumfest 2025 will be more than just a showcase of talent but a celebration of cultural convergence.”