Soul, Jazz & Sunshine: Inside Cross the Tracks 2025
Only six years in, Cross the Tracks is quickly cementing itself as one of the UK’s most exciting festivals to watch, consistently delivering a lineup that blends established legends with the next wave of essential talent. 2025 was no exception an eclectic, soulful celebration full of unforgettable highlights.
Photographer: Garry Jones
Jordan Rakei’s set stood out as a transcendent moment, as it was pure, euphoric, and emotionally charged. He reminded us why his voice and songwriting continue to resonate so deeply across genres.
Over at the Blue Project Stage, it was incredible to see women commanding the space with confidence and creativity. Mychelle, fresh off our recent interview, proved again she’s absolutely one to watch,her presence and sound are evolving fast. Fabiana Palladino delivered a gorgeous, synth-soul set that shimmered, R&B Queen Miss Shae Universe, delivered a velvet vocals, razor-sharp lyricism, and a stage presence that radiated confidence and vulnerability in equal measure, having interviewed her as she was starting out, we are so proud to see her confirming herself as the UK’s answer to Rnb. Leaving the crowd hanging on every word Naomi Sharon’s performance, though sadly cut short, it sure left a lasting impression. We’ve had our eye on her, and this glimpse only heightened our curiosity for what’s to come.
Photographer - Garry Jones
Ezra Collective ignited the main stage with a high-voltage, crowd-thrilling performance that felt like a headline-worthy moment. Their seamless blend of old favourites and newer material had the crowd in constant motion. Trumpeter; Ife Ogunjobi even jumped into the audience, setting the tone early with wild energy and joy, undoubtedly one of the toughest acts of the day to follow.
We look forward to seeing who they bring out for 2026!
Words: SOPHIE EMMETT
