The third installment of Livewire, the fast-rising live music series that’s been energizing Kingston’s entertainment scene, delivered yet another electrifying night of performances on May 29 at Usain Bolt’s Tracks and Records.
Headlining the event was dancehall rising star Bayka, who delivered a high-energy, well-crafted set backed by the iconic Ruff Kutt Band, marking a new level of maturity and musicality in his live performance journey.
Known for his street anthems and undeniable stage presence, Bayka struck all the right chords—both musically and emotionally—connecting seamlessly with the audience, who sang along passionately throughout his set. From start to finish, it was clear this wasn’t just another show for the young artist—it was a moment. “We just a do this fi the fans, mek we build a vibes, ketch eeh bounce,” he shared mid-performance, rallying the crowd into even deeper participation.
A platform for emerging and established talent
Livewire has quickly built a reputation as a proving ground for both seasoned and up-and-coming Jamaican talent. The series has already hosted a dynamic mix of acts, including Jquan, Valiant, Tiello Lanes, Yeza Music, Jahshii, and Bugle—each bringing their unique sound and style to the stage.
This staging saw a standout opening performance from Annaleax, a former beauty queen turned songstress, who surprised many with her commanding vocals and confident stage presence. Performing with a live band for the first time, she showed promising range and flair, easily earning the audience’s respect and attention.
Also making a return to the Livewire stage was Tiello Lanes, whose second showing proved a marked improvement. Under the musical guidance of the Ruff Kutt Band, Tiello delivered his set with greater poise and vocal clarity, earning him cheers from the growing crowd.
No strangers to the big stage, Ruff Kutt Band once again demonstrated why they are considered one of the most revered backing bands in Jamaican music. Their presence brought depth and richness to each artist’s set, elevating the overall experience and affirming Livewire’s commitment to high-quality live performances.
With each edition, Livewire continues to carve out a niche for authentic, unfiltered artistry—something that resonates deeply with fans and performers alike. Organizers have already announced that the next staging will take place on Jamaica’s Independence Day, setting the stage for what promises to be a celebratory showcase of Jamaican talent and national pride.
“Livewire gets better with each staging, and we are committed to building a quality product that not only reflects the best in Jamaican talent but also the very best in product, sound and overall event execution. Our next staging is Independence Day, and we definitely will have a show package that excites,” shared Carlton Davy, Yung Kings Entertainment, the promoters of the event.
