Soca Superstar Kes the Band set to headline Toronto’s iconic Budweiser Stage

International Soca powerhouse Kes the Band will light up the legendary Budweiser Stage in Toronto on June 14, 2025, marking a historic moment for Caribbean music and culture in Canada.

“Toronto was one of the very first cities we toured outside of our home, Trinidad & Tobago — and it’s held a special place in our hearts ever since,” Kes told Caribbean Life on Friday. “This city represents so much of our growth, and over the past 20-plus years, we’ve built a deep connection here.

“To now bring not only Kes the Band but soca music itself to the iconic Budweiser Stage is truly a dream come true — a full circle moment,” the band added. “It’s something we’ve always envisioned.

“While there’s still more ground to cover for our culture, this milestone is a powerful step forward,” Kes continued. “We’re honored to represent Toronto, a city that has shown us love for two decades. This will be our only Toronto performance this summer — and we’re ready to make history with you on June 14.”

Jamaican-born entertainment publicist Ronnie Tomlinson, CEO of the New York-based Destine Media, told Caribbean Life that the Toronto performance is in partnership with Summer of Sounds Festivals Inc. (SOS Fest).

“The performance signifies a major milestone in the global rise of Caribbean music,” the Brooklyn-based Tomlinson said.

“As event producers, every challenge we take on is part of a bigger mission – to grow alongside the culture, the music, and its global reach,” SOS Fest said. “To showcase Caribbean music on one of the world’s most recognized stages isn’t just a milestone – it’s a historic moment.”

Hailing from the rich cultural mosaic of Trinidad & Tobago, Kes the Band is one of the Caribbean’s most iconic and boundary-pushing bands to emerge from the islands.

Led by charismatic frontman Kees Dieffenthaller (Kes), the group also features his brother Jon Dieffenthaller on guitar, Dean James on drums (replacing founding drummer Hans Dieffenthaller), and lifelong friend Riad Boochoon on bass.