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Internationally celebrated soca superstar Kees Dieffenthaller, the dynamic frontman of Kes the Band, has shattered records once again. In a historic feat, Kees has become the first soca artist ever to sell out two consecutive SummerStage concerts at Central Park within hours of tickets going on sale.
Set to electrify New York City on July 5 and July 6, 2025, these back-to-back sold-out performances mark a monumental milestone not only for Kees and his band but for Caribbean music on the global stage. This achievement cements soca’s position as a dominant force in the international music industry and underscores the genre’s growing mainstream appeal.
A Record-Breaking Return to SummerStage
Following his sensational debut at SummerStage in 2024, where a single show sold out almost instantly, Kes has returned with twice the energy and double the demand. Last year’s unforgettable performance left thousands of fans clamoring for more, proving that the hunger for soca music is stronger than ever.
The decision to book Kes for two nights this year was a direct response to the overwhelming love and excitement from fans across the world. Yet, even with the additional show, tickets vanished within hours, reinforcing Kes’ unstoppable momentum.
“Cocoa Tea” Dominates the Airwaves
Kes’ meteoric rise is fueled by a series of unstoppable hits, none more prominent than his chart-topping single “Cocoa Tea”, which has been dominating streaming platforms worldwide. The infectious rhythm, smooth vocals, and undeniable groove have made it a global anthem, bringing soca music to new audiences and dance floors across continents.
His latest projects, including the electrifying IzWe Festival: Trinidad Carnival Edition, have further solidified his reputation as a visionary artist who is not only creating music but shaping culture. The festival, which took place earlier this year, was a massive success, uniting thousands of fans in a euphoric celebration of rhythm, energy, and Caribbean pride.
Soca’s Global Expansion: Sold-Out Shows Across Continents
Kes the Band’s influence isn’t limited to the Caribbean. Their international reach has skyrocketed, with sold-out shows in Montreal, Toronto, and cities across the United States. Last year, their tour through Canada saw two consecutive sold-out nights in Montreal, proving that the love for soca music transcends borders and cultures.
As Kes the Band celebrates 20 years in the music industry this year, they continue to blaze a trail for soca on the world stage, representing the red, white, and black of Trinidad and Tobago with pride, passion, and purpose.
Kees Speaks on the Historic Moment
Reflecting on this monumental achievement, Kees expressed his gratitude to the fans and the soca community:
“We’ve always believed in the power of soca to bring people together. To see that vision unfold not just in Trinidad, but in New York, Canada, and beyond—it’s deeply humbling. This moment belongs to all of us.”
His words reflect the larger cultural movement taking place, as soca and Caribbean music continue to gain recognition and respect on the world stage.
SummerStage and the Global Rise of Caribbean Music
Presented by Capital One, SummerStage is one of New York City’s most iconic music festivals, known for spotlighting groundbreaking artists from around the globe. Kes’ back-to-back sold-out performances are a testament to his unmatched showmanship and the undeniable power of soca music.
This moment isn’t just about one artist—it’s part of a larger cultural shift. Caribbean music is no longer on the sidelines. It is front and center, commanding the global spotlight.
Where to Catch Kes the Band Next
If you missed out on tickets for SummerStage, don’t worry. Kes the Band is taking their high-energy soca experience worldwide. Here’s where you can catch them live:
- April 20 – Tobago – Tobago Rhythm and Soul Festival
- April 27 – Kingston, Jamaica – GenXs Road March
- April 30 – St Thomas, UVI – St. Thomas Carnival Village
- May 4 – Trinidad – Bedrock All Inclusive
- May 9 – Cayman Islands – Festival Green
- May 18 – St Pauls Bay, Malta – Ibiza Soca Festival
- May 22 – Guyana – Stinging Nettles
- May 24 – Orlando, FL – Soca Fest
- June 26 – St. Kitts – St Kitts Music Festival
- June 28 – Baltimore, MD – Pier Six Pavilion
- July 3 – Boston, MA – Leader Bank Pavilion
- July 5 – New York, NY – SummerStage Central Park (SOLD OUT)
- July 6 – New York, NY – SummerStage Central Park (SOLD OUT)
- July 18 – Saint Lucia – Daren Sammy Cricket Stadium
- July 26 – Toronto, Canada – IZWE
- July 30 – St. Michael, Barbados – Rise Barbados
- August 9 – Santa Elena, Belize – Belize International Music and Food Festival
Tickets for these upcoming shows are selling fast, so fans are encouraged to secure their spots early before they’re gone.
Soca’s Future Is Bright
With this record-breaking SummerStage takeover, Kees Dieffenthaller and Kes the Band are leading the charge for soca’s global domination. Their journey is proof that Caribbean music is not just surviving, it’s thriving, evolving, and making history.
This is more than a concert. It’s a movement. It’s culture. It’s soca taking its rightful place on the world stage.
New York has spoken. The world is watching. And Kes the Band is just getting started.
