Hennessy Reunites With Back To The City To Celebrate Two Milestones

Hennessy celebrated five years with Back To The City as the festival marked 20 years of South African hip-hop culture.

EVENTSMUSIC

Admin

10/13/20262 min read

Hennessy marked five years of partnering with Back To The City as the iconic hip-hop festival celebrated its 20th anniversary at Mary Fitzgerald Square.

The brand created two distinct spaces for festival-goers. The Public Viewing Area offered a place to enjoy live performances, signature Hennessy cocktails and interactive games, bringing music and social experiences together.

Meanwhile, the Hennessy VIP Deck hosted a selection of artists, influencers and industry figures for networking and premium hospitality. Notable guests included Yanga Chief, Scoop Makhathini, Maggz, Da Les, L-Tido, Bruce, Fif_Laaa and DJ Doowap.

Hennessy South Africa Brand Manager Lungile Mpharu highlighted the significance of the brand’s five-year partnership with Back To The City, coinciding with the festival’s 20th anniversary. The collaboration reflects Hennessy’s ongoing investment in hip-hop culture and the artists and communities shaping its future, with music and creativity remaining central to the partnership.

The milestone edition brought together 100 performers and 40 graffiti artists, alongside 20 food vendors and 120 clothing stalls. Gaming, skateboarding and basketball added to the celebration of South Africa’s urban culture.

Internationally acclaimed rapper Ab-Soul headlined the international line-up. The Carson, California native is recognised for his intricate lyricism and acclaimed projects, including Herbert, Control System and Do What Thou Wilt.

The international line-up also featured Detroit hip-hop group Slum Village, accompanied by Vice Souletric, and the acclaimed duo Blu & Exile, known for their influential album Below The Heavens. They shared the stage with leading South African acts, including Cassper Nyovest, Emtee, Blxckie, Stogie T, Reason, Tuks, Touchline and Trompies.

Under the theme Against All Odds, the festival honoured the resilience and creativity behind South African hip-hop, bringing together influential pioneers and emerging talent.

As Hennessy celebrated five years alongside Back To The City’s 20-year legacy, its presence reflected a continued commitment to the artists who shaped the genre, the creatives driving its evolution and the next generation of voices.