Back To The City, Africa’s largest hip-hop celebration, recently took over the spotlight at Mary Fitzgerald Square in Johannesburg, marking a significant chapter in Hennessy’s ongoing tribute to hip-hop’s 50th anniversary in South Africa. This festival was an electrifying fusion of international sensations and local talent that left attendees spellbound. The event featured an impressive lineup including iconic US artists such as Mobb Deep’s Havoc, Beatnuts, and J Live, alongside a constellation of South African stars like 25K, Touchline, Thato Saul, Gigi Lamayne, and more. The “Hennessy Moment,” a dynamic live experience, encapsulated the very essence of hip-hop through breathtaking performances, captivating visuals, and immersive stage production that truly crowned the night and left everyone in sheer awe.

The festival was not just about stellar performances; it was a celebration embracing the heart of hip-hop culture. Last year’s partnership between Hennessy and Back To The City drew in the who’s who of South African hip-hop and street culture, with luminaries like MkayFrash, L.Tido, JR, and DJ Sabby relishing the festivities from the Hennessy VIP area. Meanwhile, the Hennessy Boombox Viewing Deck provided festival-goers with a chance to savor Hennessy cocktails while enjoying the best view of the stage. The Interactive “Letter to Hip-Hop” within the Boombox allowed attendees to inscribe their personal messages, destined for inclusion in the South African Hip-Hop Museum—an incredibly immersive and inclusive experience.

This year’s edition of Back To The City was part of a global wave celebrating 50 years of hip-hop, showcasing Hennessy’s enduring relationship with the genre. Lungile Mpharu, Hennessy’s Brand Manager, stated, “we are thrilled to be a part of Back to The City once again, celebrating the vibrant hip-hop culture that continues to inspire and unite people across the globe,” said Lungile Mpharu, Brand Manager at Hennessy. “Our longstanding commitment to hip-hop is a testament to our belief in the power of music and the arts to shape culture and bring people together.”

The Converse team hooked us up at Le’Afrinique, inviting us to dive into this epic celebration decked out in Converse gear, giving us a special view to soak up the festival’s vibe. Speaking to the Converse SA Marketing Manager Tebogo Motlhamme, she expressed that, “Converse has always had a special relationship with Back To The City, as the ethos of both brands are about the culture that has shaped Hip Hop lovers’ taste through music, fashion, and sport through basketball. These partnerships are important as they present a platform for like-minded people to engage in a space that allows them to be themselves and collectively enjoy the space. Converse is thrilled to have been part of such a monumental moment in celebrating 50 years of Hip Hop.”