In a celebration of longevity, artistry, and Caribbean excellence, Kes the Band will headline Color Me Red, Saint Lucia’s most anticipated Carnival event, on July 18th at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground. This year marks a significant milestone for both cultural giants, Kes and Red Carnival, producers of Color Me Red, as they each commemorate 20 years of delivering unforgettable, high-quality entertainment.
At the heart of Kes’ two-decade reign is an unwavering commitment to passion, precision, and the pulse of Caribbean music. Speaking ahead of the show, Robert “Robbie Styles” Persaud, the band’s long-standing hype man, reflected on their journey and deep bond with Saint Lucian audiences.
“It’s the love,” Styles said. “Love for the music, for the craft, and for each other. Every person in the band pushes themselves to elevate the performance. It’s a true team, and that energy has carried us through 20 years.”
He praised Saint Lucians for their unique ear and deep appreciation of musicality: “There’s a different kind of energy here. People love the party, but they also listen. They hear the layers in the music. There’s a deeper appreciation for the sound, the fusion, the jazz influences. That makes performing here even more special.”
Color Me Red, now a cultural institution in its own right, has evolved from a high-energy fete into a premium Carnival experience, consistently raising the bar for event production in Saint Lucia. Known for immaculate staging, elite lineups, and seamless execution, the event is the marquee pre-Carnival event on the island.
Kevyn Arnold, Event Coordinator of RED Carnival, reflected on what it means to reach this 20-year milestone.
“Longevity in entertainment isn’t luck, it’s a commitment to excellence,” Arnold said. “Color Me Red was never just about throwing a party; it was about creating a world-class experience. That means investing in top-tier talent, flawless production, and giving our local artists the same platform as regional icons.”
Arnold also spoke to Red Carnival’s broader contribution to Saint Lucia Carnival.
“Red Carnival has always been about enhancing the Carnival experience in Saint Lucia. While we’ve taken a pause on the road for now, our energy has been fully focused on delivering two of the season’s most iconic events, Color Me Red on Carnival Friday and Red Brunch on Carnival Sunday. These events are about celebrating culture, music, and premium experiences. And our commitment to Saint Lucia Carnival remains as strong as ever.”
This year’s all-star lineup features local stars Ezra D Fun Machine, Ricky T, Imran Nerdy, Umpa, Sly, Sedale, Carlton Roberts, Arthur Allain, Dezral and Keisha, along with regional performers Problem Child, Blakka Dan, Ridge, Lady Lava, and of course, Kes the Band.
“To have Kes headline in their 20th year, as we celebrate ours, is nothing short of poetic,” Arnold added. “It’s a full-circle moment that honors the evolution of both brands and the loyal audiences who’ve kept us going.”
For fans, Color Me Red 2025 won’t just be another fete, it will be a premium, high-impact showcase of Caribbean culture, rhythm, and unity. For Kes, it’s a return to a stage where the love has always been loud.
“Thank you, Saint Lucia, for two decades of love and support,” said Robbie Styles. “We’re coming to celebrate with you, big energy, big music, and big love.”
