WPGM Previews: Cross The Tracks 2025

Get ready for a day of immersive musical magic as Brockwell Park transforms into the epicenter of London’s vibrant soundscape on May 25, 2025 for Cross The Tracks.

Cross The Tracks 2025 is set to deliver a heady mix of legendary grooves, cutting‐edge innovation, and soulful storytelling, all while celebrating the rich tapestry of jazz, funk, and soul. With a star-studded lineup featuring both celebrated icons and rising talents, this festival is more than just a festival – it’s an experience that encapsulates the heartbeat of modern and classic soul.

Leading the charge is Michael Kiwanuka, the Mercury Prize-winning soul luminary whose transcendent voice and evocative songwriting have redefined modern British soul. In 2024, Michel released his first album in 5 long years, Small Changes, but this body of work was well worth the wait.

Over the past year he has also been captivating audiences with intimate shows that were hailed as “a soulful homecoming” by critics, further cementing his reputation as an artist who bridges the gap between vintage soul and contemporary reflection.

Joining him as a co-headliner is the dynamic Ezra Collective. Fresh off the release of their acclaimed 2024 album Dance, No One’s Watching – an ode to the liberating power of dance and rhythm – Ezra Collective have taken the jazz world by storm.

Their record, recorded partly in Lagos and infused with afrobeat energy, has already earned four nominations at the BRIT Awards and has been celebrated for its infectious beats and genre-defying vision. Their live performance promises an electrifying set that fuses live instrumentation with improvisational flair, ensuring every moment is a vibrant celebration of movement and sound.

Jordan Rakei is set to mesmerize with his signature blend of smooth vocals and innovative production. Last year, his most vulnerable and latest album The Loop was met with critical acclaim, as did his incredible x day performance at the Royal Albert Hall last September. His performance is anticipated to be a deep dive into the emotional layers of modern R&B and jazz, resonating with anyone who’s ever found solace in music.

Best known as Anderson .Paak’s live band, the Free Nationals are master entertainers and musicians in their own right . Their signature sound – a seamless blend of R&B, funk, and soul—is the perfect complement to the festival’s vibe, offering an undercurrent of laid-back cool that will keep the energy flowing between headline acts.

Representing a storied legacy in funk, Cymande will take the stage with their timeless grooves. Having inspired countless musicians since the 1970s, they continue to enchant new audiences with their hypnotic, soulful rhythms. Renascence, their latest album after a 10 year hiatus has reignited interest in their groundbreaking work, proving that great music never fades—it only deepens with time.

Nala Sinephro pushes the boundaries of contemporary jazz with her experimental soundscapes. After the release of her latest album Endlessness, she’s now regarded as one of the most exciting voices redefining modern jazz. Expect her set to be a journey through unexpected sonic territories that challenge and delight in equal measure.

The soulful stylings of Sinéad Harnett are not to be missed. Her striking album Boundaries is a true lesson in self-love, wrapped around raw emotional honesty and refined vocal delivery. Her performance promises to capture that same heartfelt intimacy, blending contemporary R&B with the timeless elegance of soul.

Bashy adds an urban edge to the lineup with his dynamic lyricism and electrifying stage presence. After a 15 year hiatus, his latest album Being Poor is Expensive as earned him the title of Album Of The Year at the Mobo Awards. His witty wordplay and energetic delivery and thought provoking lyrics will inject a burst of contemporary vibrancy into the festival’s eclectic mix.

No lineup would be complete without the influential Gilles Peterson, whose decades-long career as a DJ and curator has been instrumental in shaping the sound of modern soul and jazz. Recently, his curated radio specials highlighting emerging Afrobeat and neo-soul talents have become must-listen sessions for music aficionados, promising a set filled with both nostalgia and discovery.

Skinshape offers an introspective mix of electronic textures and soulful beats, crafting a set that is both immersive and thought-provoking. His modern take on electronic-soul is a nod to London’s ever-evolving musical landscape.

Grammy winning & legendary artist, Bilal, is one of neo-soul’s most revered voices. His live performance is expected to be a masterclass in vocal improvisation and emotional depth, highlighting his unique ability to blur the lines between traditional soul and experimental sound.

The legacy of afrobeat lives on with Seun Kuti & Egypt 80. Their latest album, Heavier Yet (Lays the Crownless Head), produced by Lenny Kravitz and praised for its seamless blend of traditional afrobeat with glossy modern influences, has received rave reviews, including from The Guardian, which noted its powerful political messages and innovative sonic layering.

Seun Kuti’s performance will be a celebration of heritage and forward-thinking artistry, continuing the legacy of his father, Fela Kuti.

Rounding out this stellar lineup is the rising star Naomi Sharon. With a fresh, captivating energy and a voice that resonates with both power and vulnerability, Naomi Sharon represents the future of soul—bridging the gap between tradition and innovation.

Cross The Tracks 2025 is not just about stellar live performances—it’s a full immersion into a world where music meets art, food, and culture. Wander the festival grounds and you’ll discover a visual feast of vibrant art installations and pop-up artisan markets, intermingled with the lush greenery of Brockwell Park.

Culinary delights await at London’s top street food vendors, offering everything from classic comfort food to innovative vegan and gluten-free options, while a dedicated craft beer fair promises to quench your thirst with local brews.

Interactive workshops and panel discussions add a layer of depth to the experience, offering insights into the creative process and the cultural significance of the music on display. Whether you’re a budding musician, an avid art lover, or simply looking to connect with fellow music enthusiasts, there’s something here to spark your creativity and ignite your passion.

Step into Brockwell Park and you’re immediately enveloped in an atmosphere that’s equal parts urban chic and natural beauty. The festival’s design is a visual feast, featuring vibrant art installations, quirky pop-up artisan markets, and innovative urban design elements interwoven with the park’s lush greenery. It’s a setting that not only hosts music but also inspires creativity and connection.

Cross The Tracks 2025 isn’t just a festival—it’s an invitation to live, feel, and share in a cultural phenomenon that embodies the spirit of London. Whether you’re there for the groundbreaking music, the artistic installations, or the vibrant community atmosphere, you’re guaranteed a day filled with unforgettable moments. It’s a celebration of diversity, creativity, and the enduring power of music to bring people together.

Prepare yourself for a day where every beat, every flavor, and every visual detail converges into an all-encompassing experience that will leave you inspired long after the final note fades. Cross The Tracks 2025 is a declaration of London’s undying love for music and creativity – get your tickets here!

Words by Margarida Pereira

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