New location, no problem!
I Love Soca delivers premium vibes at Heroes’ Circle
A late venue announcement did not stop patrons from turning out in droves for the final instalment of I Love Soca 2025.
National Heroes’ Circle came alive on Friday night as soca lovers flooded the event’s new home, unleashing high-energy, unmatched vibes and all-night feteing.
With large coolers in tow as they unloaded their vehicles, patrons quickly filled the massive space and, by the clock struck midnight, there was hardly an empty spot in sight.
Soaking up all the soca hits their hearts desired, revellers were on cloud nine as the line-up of experienced deejays explored hits from the past while working their way up to today’s favourite.
Arms outstretched, partygoers allowed themselves to be swept away by the sweet sounds of soca, some pulling their partners closer to “buss a whine”.
The duo of Richie Ras and Patrick Anthony the Hype Man showed off their turntable skills as they churned out one hit after another. Problem Child’s highly successful track Holiday was a crowd-favourite as patrons raised their party cups to the heavens, toasting the festivities of the Yuletide.
Friend groups huddled closer for shots, some dancing with rum bottles atop their heads as the selector drew on Klassik Frescobar’s Dansa. The crowd was sent into a frenzy when Richie Ras upped the ante by expertly playing Skinny Fabulous’ Famalay before transitioning to Big Bad Soca. Before the duo made their exit, clearing the consoles for Brush1 The Road Marshal, they left the vibes on high with Bunji Garlin’s Hard Fete and Machel Mantano’s Pardy.
Switching things up for a brief moment, Brush1 treated the crowd to some dancehall tracks as he drew on songs from Masicka, Tommy Lee, Vybz Kartel, and others to get the crowd warmed up. He then took his set to another level by churning out a slew of soca favourites, catering specifically to the ladies with tracks from Lady Lava. Out came the rags and the ladies showed their approval by waving their hands and gyrating their waistlines.
The Chromatic Crew closed the curtains on an epic showcase as they took control of the consoles in the early hours of Saturday morning.
Speaking with the Jamaica Observer post-event, Andrew Bellamy, managing director behind I Love Soca, said he was grateful for the massive support the event received. He said he was especially appreciative given the venue change and credits the turnout to years of hard work and brand establishment.
“We are very thankful for the support that we received at I Love Soca Boxing Day 2025. We’ve worked very hard and we have grown into a brand that’s well-respected and very popular within Jamaica, and we go above and beyond to deliver and execute an event that our patrons can feel safe and have an amazing time,” he said. “We weren’t really surprised at the turnout. We anticipated a big crowd and good support. We knew once we communicated that this new location was central, very safe, and we had the endorsement from the city, the mayor, the police, we knew people would be excited about attending and we saw that.”
Bellamy went on to share that, while there are areas to improve as it relates to the party’s new home, the venue has proven ideal for the event as it continues to experience growth.