THE bass-thumping energy of Streetz Festival has long been anchored by the action on its massive main stage — home to explosive performances, international stars, and the kind of excitement that has transformed the National Stadium car park venue into a dancehall mecca.

However, this year the ever-growing festival, which takes place on Saturday, August 30, is digging even deeper.

The new feature for 2025 is the introduction of the Culture Stage, an intimate platform dedicated to roots reggae, dub, and cultural expressions that organisers describe as the heartbeat of Jamaica.

It’s a bold new direction that they hope will add a richer experience to concert goers.

“We wanted to create something that speaks to Jamaica’s foundation,” said organiser Chad Williams. “Streetz Festival has always been about evolution. The main stage delivers the energy and big-name performances, but we wanted to create something that speaks to Jamaica’s foundation in culture and roots. By adding the Culture Stage we’re not just expanding the line-up, we’re deepening the experience. It gives our patrons variety, balance, and the chance to enjoy different sides of Jamaican music in one festival.”

That grounding will come with the help of one of reggae’s most soulful voices — firebrand entertainer I-Wayne. Known for hits like Living in Love and Can’t Satisfy Her, the conscious crooner will bring his message of truth and upliftment to the inaugural Culture Stage offering.

“I-Wayne is the perfect fit … [he is] a true icon of conscious music,” said Williams. “His presence brings credibility and authenticity to the Culture Stage. His music resonates with themes of upliftment and truth, and having him join the line-up is a perfect fit for what we’re building with this new stage.

“He has a way of commanding the stage with both his voice and his message. His set will take patrons on a journey, reminding them of the beauty of reggae’s roots while igniting the energy for the rest of the night.”

But the experience won’t end there. Festival-goers will also be treated to the Dubwise Experience, a deep dive into sound system culture that promises heavy bass lines, classic dub plates, and live mixing — an homage to the traditions that gave birth to reggae’s global influence.

“It’s not just entertainment, it’s a cultural journey that connects generations and keeps Jamaica’s dub tradition alive,” Williams said.

If they have their way, the Culture Stage will be an element that will be here to stay, but in spite of its roots revolution Streetz has not lost its dancehall fervour and flair.

The main stage will once again deliver the fireworks that the event has become known for, with heavyweight Popcaan headlining the festival and more than a few surprises being promised.

For the organising team, Saturday’s event represents the festival’s most complete staging yet — a sort of coming of age.

“This year Streetz Festival is bigger, bolder, and more authentic than ever. From the massive Streetz stage with international superstar Popcaan to the introduction of the Culture Stage, we’re offering something for everyone. Patrons can expect world-class performances, community vibes, and unforgettable moments that celebrate both the future and the foundation of Jamaican music. Simply put, if you love culture, if you love music, and if you love the energy of the streets, you cannot miss Streetz this year,” Williams stated.

Streetz co-promoter Chad Williams (left) and headline act Popcaan (Photo : Naphtali Junior)