Chart-topping singer Jay Sean is set to headline this year’s Middlesbrough Mela, a show dubbed the jewel in the crown of the 35th birthday edition of one of the UK’s longest running multicultural festivals.
Held over the weekend of August 16 and 17 in the town’s historic Albert Park, the 2025 Mela will welcome more than 50,000 visitors for a vibrant celebration of culture, community and entertainment.
And in a major first for the perennially popular Mela, Jay Sean will be making an exclusive UK appearance in a show which will be hosted by DJs and presenters from the BBC Asian Network so expect further guest appearances and surprises.
Mela organisers have pulled out all the stops to land one of the biggest headline acts in the event’s history and are hoping for a record turn-out.
In a career spanning two decades, Jay Sean made history by becoming the first South Asian artist to top the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and was the first British Indian artist to have simultaneous Top 10 Billboard singles in the US.
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In 2024 he founded 3AM Entertainment, a record label under Virgin Music Group, to support artists from the South Asian diaspora. The first ever Mela Saturday evening concert will see its main field transformed into a concert style arena from 6pm until late after guests have enjoyed the free daytime offering. Fans are expected to travel from across the UK and beyond for the ticketed event which will also include full access to the popular street food village, international stall bazaar, fairground and a whole host of other attractions.
Middlesbrough Mela Director Kash Patel said: “We’re beyond excited to welcome Jay Sean to perform at our 35th Middlesbrough Mela. As one of the most influential British Asian artists of our time, Jay Sean’s global success and iconic sound have inspired generations.
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“His appearance marks a major moment for the Mela and for the wider north-east. He brings with him an exciting energy that reflects the vibrant diversity at the heart of our town. The Mela has always been a celebration of culture, unity, and the incredible talent that defines our community — and this year, with Jay Sean joining us, Middlesbrough Mela just got even bigger.”
*Info: Middlesborough Mela
