Back to the City (BTTC) is South Africa’s largest hip-hop festival, held annually in Newtown, Johannesburg, on Freedom Day, April 27th. Since its inception in 2007, BTTC has grown into a cultural powerhouse, representing the essence of South African hip-hop, street art, and urban culture. With thousands of attendees each year, BTTC celebrates the spirit of freedom, self-expression, and artistic innovation.
The festival has hosted legendary South African hip-hop performers such as ProKid, HHP, Tumi Molekane (Stogie T), and Kwesta, alongside new-generation stars like A-Reece, Blxckie, and Nasty C. BTTC is a vital platform for both underground and mainstream artists, featuring not only music but also breakdancing, graffiti, skateboarding, and street fashion.
A significant part of BTTC’s heritage is its long-standing partnership with Butan Streetwear, one of South Africa’s most iconic street fashion brands. Butan Streetwear has deep roots in South Africa’s hip-hop scene, with a mission to fuse African heritage and street culture into wearable art. Butan has been a prominent supporter and sponsor of BTTC, aligning its brand with the festival’s celebration of urban culture and self-expression. Through this collaboration, Butan’s exclusive designs have become synonymous with the festival’s aesthetic, as both represent the intersection of art, music, and fashion.
For 2024, BTTC promises to continue its legacy, featuring hip-hop legends in this years Heritage showings.
BTTC in collaboration with Hennessy will spotlight iconic South African hip-hop legends with thrilling performances. Mr Selwyn will bring his raw, lyrical prowess to the stage, while Pitch Black Afro's unique voice and style promise an unforgettable set. Zubz The Last Letter' hip-hop is a blend of intellectual, poetic lyricism and socially conscious themes, delivered through smooth flow and soulful beats, rooted in storytelling and authenticity.
The festival has hosted legendary South African hip-hop performers such as ProKid, HHP, Tumi Molekane (Stogie T), and Kwesta, alongside new-generation stars like A-Reece, Blxckie, and Nasty C. BTTC is a vital platform for both underground and mainstream artists, featuring not only music but also breakdancing, graffiti, skateboarding, and street fashion.
A significant part of BTTC’s heritage is its long-standing partnership with Butan Streetwear, one of South Africa’s most iconic street fashion brands. Butan Streetwear has deep roots in South Africa’s hip-hop scene, with a mission to fuse African heritage and street culture into wearable art. Butan has been a prominent supporter and sponsor of BTTC, aligning its brand with the festival’s celebration of urban culture and self-expression. Through this collaboration, Butan’s exclusive designs have become synonymous with the festival’s aesthetic, as both represent the intersection of art, music, and fashion.
For 2024, BTTC promises to continue its legacy, featuring hip-hop legends in this years Heritage showings.
BTTC in collaboration with Hennessy will spotlight iconic South African hip-hop legends with thrilling performances. Mr Selwyn will bring his raw, lyrical prowess to the stage, while Pitch Black Afro's unique voice and style promise an unforgettable set. Zubz The Last Letter' hip-hop is a blend of intellectual, poetic lyricism and socially conscious themes, delivered through smooth flow and soulful beats, rooted in storytelling and authenticity.
The highlight will be a commemorative performance honoring HHP, paying tribute to the late Motswako legend’s lasting impact on the industry. Together, these performances will embody the rich legacy of South African hip-hop, celebrating its roots and ongoing influence.
Butan Streetwear will once again play a key role in defining the festival’s visual identity, offering unique street fashion that reflects the bold energy of South African hip-hop culture.
BTTC is more than a music festival—it’s a cultural movement that celebrates South Africa’s urban history, while pushing the boundaries of art, fashion, and mostly hip-hop culture.
BTTC is more than a music festival—it’s a cultural movement that celebrates South Africa’s urban history, while pushing the boundaries of art, fashion, and mostly hip-hop culture.
#heedthecall #bttcxhennessy
