Finsbury Park, London — 11–13 July 2025
Wireless celebrated its 20th anniversary with unprecedented flair: Drake headlined all three nights, each with a distinct theme and setlist. But despite the record-making run, the weekend unveiled both the power and pitfalls of spectacle.
Drake kicked things off with an R&B-centered set, joined by PartyNextDoor, Summer Walker, and rising stars like Odeal and Kwn. Notable highlights included a standout performance of “Marvin’s Room” and surprise appearances by Mario, Bryson Tiller, Giveon, and the legendary Lauryn Hill—who produced an unforgettable moment despite sound glitches.
A FACT London review described this opener as a euphoric “love letter to R&B,” though technical blips and last-minute lineup reveals clouded the build-up.
Saturday switched gears to grime and UK rap. Boy Better Know led with iconic energy, while Drake amplified the intensity by bringing out Dave, J Hus, Skepta, Central Cee, and many others. The crowd erupted as Vanessa Carlton unexpectedly joined for “A Thousand Miles.”
But a Guardian review pointed out how Drake’s forced aggression and guest-heavy tactics felt performative—and perhaps a little overcompensated
Sunday was the festival’s most controversial night. Vybz Kartel made a return to London after 20 years, electrifying the crowd. But scheduling mishaps, curfew limitations, and sudden changes—like his set clipping into Drake’s—created confusion. The rapper delivered a rush 40-minute finale with appearances by Rema and Vybz Kartel. Some fans felt shortchanged by the abrupt ending.
Online reaction was mixed. While Friday and Saturday were hailed as cultural high points, many Sunday-only attendees voiced frustration.
“He comes out and does a 40-minute DJ set…” – r/WirelessFestival.
“This was the worst festival I’ve ever been to.” –
Wireless 2025 delivered spectacle, exclusive guest moments, and genre-rich performances. But cracks in logistics, mixed artistic choices, and intensity fatigue on the final night left the legacy feeling a bit uneven.
It was history in the making—but also a reminder that big ambitions require flawless execution.