SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - When faced with the possibility of a Reggae void for Carnival 2025, one of Carnival's most dedicated corporate partners swooped in with an incredible save, bringing an experienced hand along for the ride.
Divico N.V. has brought on Bertaux "Mr. Rude" Fleming of Xtratight Entertainment to produce a Reggae event for Carnival that’s sure to be remembered. Entitled "Headliners: Roots and Riddims," the event promises to add to the proud history of one of Carnival’s most cherished genres. To emphasize the importance of Reggae in Carnival, the show will proudly carry the hashtag: #reggaecyandead.
On Sunday, April 27, in Carnival Village, four (4) headliners will take the stage, replacing the Caribbean Queen Pageant, which has been moved to Carnival 2026 as part of the island’s 55-year anniversary of Carnival.
For Divico and its Director Sunny Khatnani, it was important to work with someone who knows the genre of reggae very well. Divico will deliver exactly what its title promises: every artist is a headliner! In reggae culture, fans don’t ask, “Who’s the main act?”—they ask, “Who’s the headliner?”
Imagine the vibrant pulse of reggae music filling the air, every beat resonating through your soul as you step into a world where rhythm and passion collide. Divico and Xtratight will curate an unforgettable experience. Carnival Village will come alive with energy, creating an atmosphere that feels like a celebration of life itself.
Divico intends to stage a professional production for concertgoers. Patrons can expect to see deep connection to the genre reflected in every detail, from the seamless transitions between artists to the perfect balance of sound. It won’t just be a concert; it will be an immersive journey into the heart of reggae, where every note resonates with authenticity and unity.
"Reggae is a complicated genre. If you don’t know it and understand it, you probably won’t be successful. You need the experience to tackle this genre properly," Mr. Rude explained. He added that collaborating with Divico allows for a strong foundation. "We will bring a sustainable product to the table. Xtratight gave Carnival 10 years of consistency with Night of the Hit Makers, and hopefully, this is Year One of another 10 years," he added.
SCDF President Edwardo Radjouki explained that many of the competing nations for the Caribbean Pageant failed to meet deadlines and expressed significant financial challenges in preparing for the pageant here. Instead of hosting an event that neither the public nor the SCDF would be satisfied with, the decision was made to reschedule the pageant for next year’s grand celebrations.
In taking on the Reggae concert, Khatnani is taking his biggest leap yet into Carnival. He has always found ways for his company to contribute to carnival.
"We are very excited that Divico, Sunny, and his team not only took over the night, but also reached out to the perfect person to guide this reggae experience," Radjouki said. "Divico has been a long-time partner, but this collaboration takes things to a whole new level. This is how Carnival legacies are made. It’s great to see a corporate partner and Xtratight working together on this. Reggae will be sweet for Carnival 2025," Radjouki added.
More information about "Headliners: Roots and Riddims" will be released soon.
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