Festival Colours of Ostrava unveils new additions to its 2025 lineup, joining previously announced headliners such as The Chainsmokers, Iggy Pop, and Justice. Returning to the Czech Republic is none other than Sting, performing in the industrial backdrop of Dolní Vítkovice for the first time. Adding to the excitement is his long-time collaborator Shaggy, making his Czech solo debut. Also gracing the festival is Snow Patrol, performing in the country for the very first time with their iconic hit Chasing Cars. Rounding out this star-studded list of global “S” acts are electro-pop duo Sofi Tukker, bringing their latest album released this summer.
The 22nd edition of Colours of Ostrava continues to expand its diverse musical offering with reggae, indie rock, and electro-pop acts. Sting, a household name among Czech fans, returns to the country he holds dear. What makes his festival appearance so unique is the chance to reunite with his long-time friend Shaggy. The Jamaican reggae icon reconnected Sting with his roots through their collaborative album 44/876, released in 2018. While the duo previously performed in the Czech Republic as part of this project, Shaggy has yet to deliver a solo concert here. With Boombastic celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2025, and Hot Shot turning 25, Shaggy’s set will undoubtedly feature timeless hits like Angel and It Wasn’t Me. Sharing the same day as Sting, fans might even witness a surprise collaboration live on stage.
“We’re thrilled to finally have Sting at Colours of Ostrava. For me, he is a fascinating figure in modern music, never afraid to experiment with diverse genres,” says Zlata Holušová, Artistic Director of Colours of Ostrava. “What’s even more exciting is that we’ve managed to schedule Shaggy for the same day. He’ll deliver his biggest hits with a rhythm-driven live band, while Sting offers stripped-down arrangements alongside just two musicians. It would be amazing if they connected on stage in front of a packed audience.”
The synergy extends to the Czech lineup as well. New to the roster are J.A.R., whose frontman Dan Bárta has previously performed with Sting’s guitarist Dominic Miller.
Fans will be equally delighted with Snow Patrol, famed for hits like Run, Chocolate, and the chart-topping Chasing Cars. The band, which holds the title of the most-played song of the 21st century on British radio, will visit the Czech Republic for the first time. After over 1,000 live performances worldwide, Gary Lightbody and his bandmates will bring their latest album, The Forest Is the Path, to Ostrava. As Neil McCormick of The Telegraph writes in his review: “While the song structures may feel familiar, the album as a whole keeps pulling at my heartstrings with a warm, comforting embrace. I found myself wanting to listen again and again.”
Sofi Tukker also joins the 2025 lineup, following the release of their latest album earlier this year. The duo, known for their infectious blend of global influences, including African and Latin American rhythms, had to cancel their summer tour due to health issues but are now back to electrify audiences.
Adding to the eclectic mix is Israeli artist Noga Erez, who will present her most original work yet with her new album, The Vandalist. As she describes it: “This album is packed with strong emotions—it’ll make you sad, angry, and even laugh out loud.”