Annáe débuts Reggae Riddim at Sumfest
On Festival Night 2 of Reggae Sumfest 2025, 19-year-old singer-songwriter Annáe seized her moment and introduced the crowd to her forthcoming single Reggae Riddim.
Opening for the show, she delivered a four-song set that showcased her original music with a first-ever live performance of the new track and a cover of the 90s international dancehall hit Shy Guy by Diana King.
Reflecting on the moment, Annáe said: “Being chosen to set the tone for such a major event was both empowering and nerve-racking; it was a ‘make or break’ moment for me. But the second I stepped on stage I knew I was right where I belonged.”
Having prepared with vocal rehearsals and strategic sessions alongside her Niche Entertainment team, Annáe recalled her mindset as the lights hit: “I kept telling myself, ‘This is it. This is what you’re meant to do, so give it your all.’ I knew how important that moment was, not only because of the massive audience, but because so many influential people, including my fellow Jamaicans, were watching.”
She described the crowd’s response to her original songs — Don’t Let Me Down and My Man — as unexpectedly warm: “I could feel their curiosity and connection. They truly leaned in and gave me a chance, and I’ll never take that for granted. Honestly, I didn’t expect such a strong welcome, people often gravitate towards what they already know, so the love was a beautiful surprise.”
The artiste continued: “Sumfest gave me a glimpse into the industry on a professional level from production to performance. It pushed me to grow and taught me so much. This is just the beginning, and I’m ready to work even harder to live out this dream,” she explained.
Annáe (real name Annáe Ivanáe Campbell) is a 19-year-old singer-songwriter whose voice blends roots-driven reggae with soulful elements of pop, R&B, and jazz. A standout fourth-place finalist on Digicel Rising Stars 2023, she crafts emotionally honest songs that speak to healing, vulnerability, and empowerment.
The studio version of Reggae Riddim will be released in a few weeks, with a music video and a series of live dates to follow.
