It was a “Ratty Gang” Christmas inside Usain Bolt’s Tracks and Records (UBT&R) at Marketplace as dancehall artiste Skeng served up a solid performance to close the curtains on the venue’s 2025 Livewire season on Christmas Eve.

The vibes were unmatched as the energetic performer had the crowd fully charged and ready to soak in every bit of his set. Together, the artiste and his fans ushered in Christmas with the kind of celebration only Skeng could deliver.

Arriving in an outfit that no doubt reflected his state of mind, the Protocol artiste was in full militant mode as he reeled out hit after hit from his catalogue.

Backed by the experienced Ruff Kut crew, the entertainer delivered songs such as London, Gvnman Session, and Vibes.

The entertainer’s breath control was impeccable as he deejayed each song while executing several aerial leaps.

Before long, Skeng was barefoot and shirtless as he took his performance to the next level.

Now, turning his attention to his excited female fan base, the entertainer kept the energy high with renditions of his singles Talibhan, Curves, and Likkle Miss.

Skeng had the ladies swooning, some singing along to his every word, others gyrating; everyone fully enjoying his delivery.

The performance may have been short, but it was just enough to appease the artiste’s fan base with patrons leaving the venue pleased as the night came to a close.

But before that, the crowd was treated to a short guest appearance by “Top Gyal” Shaneil Muir, who entertained the ladies with her breakout single Yamabella followed by Same Guy and Exclusive. She had the women taking out their phones to video themselves singing along to their favourite tracks.

But long before the main act graced the stage, Iwaata, who performed as the show’s opening act, got the crowd ready for the scorchers to come. Holding his own and proving himself a force in the dancehall space, the entertainer also delivered hits from his arsenal of songs. Tracks such as Tun Di Oda Way, Cut Off Jeans, and Clip Tall had the crowd in a frenzy, setting the tone for what turned out to be a night of epic dancehall performances.

Jizell Cowan, marketing manager, UBT&R, said Wednesday night’s Livewire was a reminder of “what happens when music, culture, and experience come together seamlessly”.

“Livewire brought an incredible showcase to Tracks & Records, and our patrons felt every moment of it. We’re proud to host events that not only entertain but create lasting memories and strengthen our connection to Jamaica’s vibrant music scene,” she told the Jamaica Observer.

Carlton Davey, of Yung Kingz Entertainment, promoters of the live series, said the show “continues to prove why it’s one of Jamaica’s most exciting live music platforms” as Wednesday night’s energy inside UBT&R was electric.

“The performances by Skeng and Iwaata truly captured the spirit of the culture. The impact of the night was undeniable, and we’re grateful for the continued support and look forward to returning in full effect in 2026 with even bigger and better experiences for our patrons,” Davey said.

— Shereita Grizzle

Shaneil Muir hangs out with Skeng post-performance. Garfield Robinson