The announcement was made on Thursday during a ceremony hosted by Export Saint Lucia, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and the Discover Dominica Authority (DDA).
This year’s Saint Lucian lineup includes 2025 Groovy Soca Monarch Imran “Nerdy” Nerdy, Groovy Soca 1st Runner-Up Arthur Allain, and Power Soca 3rd Runner-Up Ezra ‘D Fun Machine’. All three will showcase their talent at one of the region’s most renowned music festivals.
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, Groovy Monarch winner Imran Nerdy expressed gratitude and excitement about performing in Dominica for the first time.
“That’s been something that I always wanted to do. Thanks to everybody who made this happen. I have a lot of words when I’m on the stage, not when I’m off the stage... but we’re not gonna give any trailers. We’ll just give the movie on the night in Dominica.”
Ezra D’ Fun Machine, who has previously performed at the festival, reflected on the significance of returning for its 25th anniversary. “To be part of this big celebration, 25 years, I think that in itself is a blessing,” he said.
Ezra also praised his team and fellow artists, adding that Saint Lucia’s participation would be more inclusive this year. “Even if it had to come from our pockets, I think it would be a wonderful representation for what we have here to offer.”
Groovy Soca veteran Arthur Allain also shared his appreciation: “It’s a great feeling to be involved with the Dominica Creole Festival. Having gone there a few times myself and enjoyed it from the crowd, to actually be a part of it now, it’s really gratifying. Looking forward to mashing up the stage with Ezra and Nerdy and representing Saint Lucia to the fullest.”
Tourism Minister Dr. Ernest Hilaire praised the initiative as a symbol of regional unity and cultural exchange. “It’s a fantastic opportunity for us to continue to collaborate as two countries. Dominicans and Saint Lucians share so many similar characteristics. It’s an opportunity for us to continue that bond.”
CEO of Export Saint Lucia, Sunita Daniel, highlighted the organisation’s ongoing work in promoting Saint Lucian artists internationally.
“We started out with the ‘Business of Doing Music’ workshop, especially training Dennery Segment artists. Last year we introduced the ‘Most Exportable Song’ award, which Imran Nerdy won, and today he’s being unveiled as one of the artists who will be performing in Dominica.”
The 2025 World Creole Music Festival is expected to draw thousands of music lovers from across the Caribbean and beyond. With a high-energy lineup and cultural pride in full force, Saint Lucia’s presence promises to leave a lasting impression on the regional stage.