Clash of the Christmas Titans: Sting vs. Gully Gad — Who Will Rule December?

Jamaica’s entertainment calendar is about to witness a festive face-off for the Yuletide season. On Boxing Day, December 26, the legendary Sting returns with its signature mix of raw energy and lyrical warfare — but less than 24 hours later, Mavado steps into the spotlight with his highly anticipated “Return of the Gully Gad” concert on December 27. The two powerhouse events, just a day apart, are set to ignite a friendly rivalry for dominance over Jamaica’s end-of-year spotlight.

Mavado’s announcement of his star-studded Reggae Fest-branded concert created instant buzz, with Plantation Cove’s corporate affairs manager Vonni Koromanti Meikle boldly declaring that “Boxing Day is dead and the only stinging and buzzing is happening on the 27th of December.” But Tahheer “Fatman” Laing, the ever-unfazed promoter of Sting, wasn’t having it. Laughing off the jab, Laing doubled down, saying “Sting a Sting” — and confirmed that the iconic Boxing Day tradition remains strong, just reimagined for a new generation.

“People are calling every day asking about the lineup. Sting is on with a different look. We’re focusing on the younger crowd — giving them the chance to perform, express themselves, and claim those ‘Sting bragging rights,’” Laing told The Weekend Star. He added that while Sting 2025 will spotlight emerging acts, it will also feature established names such as Tommy Lee Sparta and Jamal, maintaining its balance between rising talent and star power.

This return comes after a turbulent chapter in 2024, when Sting was abruptly cancelled just hours before showtime due to financial and contractual disputes with Clearsound Production Services Group. The shock decision — the first in over 40 years — disappointed fans and sparked doubts about whether the “greatest one-night reggae and dancehall show on earth” could bounce back. But Laing says this year’s edition will restore faith in the brand. “Sting has always been about giving young artists their first big stage. That vision still stands,” he declared.

Meanwhile, Mavado’s Return of the Gully Gad concert promises glitz, global appeal, and heavy-hitting performances, backed by corporate sponsors and surprise guests, including DJ Khaled. With his recent Billboard success and renewed visibility on the local and international scene, Mavado is bringing major hype to the December 27 outing.

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