Johannesburg, South Africa – The unparalleled energy and vibrant culture of the Back to the City Festival are set to captivate audiences nationwide as the event makes its debut on television. SABC 1 will broadcast a comprehensive two-part special, bringing Africa’s largest hip-hop and urban culture celebration directly into living rooms across the country. Episode 1 is scheduled to air on Friday, November 7, 2025, at 9:00 PM, followed by Episode 2 on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at 8:00 PM. This SABC 1 broadcast is a significant moment for the Back to the City Festival.
A Legacy of Urban Culture at the Back to the City Festival
Founded in 2007, the Back to the City Festival has evolved from its street-level origins into a formidable cultural institution and a pilgrimage site for hip-hop enthusiasts. Consistently recognized as the biggest hip-hop festival in South Africa and indeed, across the continent, it has become a vital platform for both established artists and emerging talent within the hip-hop music scene. For its 2025 edition, the festival embraced the powerful theme of “Power in Numbers,” drawing an impressive crowd to Mary Fitzgerald Square in Newtown, Johannesburg. The Back to the City Festival continues to be a cornerstone of South African hip-hop.
A Star-Studded Showcase for the Screen
The two-part television special promises to capture the essence of this landmark event, featuring electrifying performances, exclusive behind-the-scenes footage, and in-depth artist interviews. The festival’s 2025 lineup was headlined by international hip-hop heavyweight Lupe Fiasco, gracing the stage alongside a constellation of South Africa’s most prominent artists. Viewers can anticipate performances from artists such as Cassper Nyovest, A-Reece, Big Zulu, Emtee, Kwesta, Maglera Doe Boy, and many others who define the current landscape of South African hip-hop. The broadcast will also highlight the festival’s dedication to its heritage, featuring legendary figures who have shaped the genre. The Back to the City Festival showcased incredible talent.
More Than Just Music: An Urban Culture Festival
Back to the City is celebrated not only for its musical prowess but also for its comprehensive embrace of urban culture. The festival grounds transform into a vibrant hub, showcasing graffiti battles, skateboarding demonstrations, breakdancing competitions, intricate art installations, street fashion exhibits, and a bustling marketplace for clothing and food vendors. The SABC 1 special is expected to translate this multi-faceted cultural experience for television viewers, offering a complete immersion into the world of South African hip-hop and urban artistry. This urban culture festival is a true testament to creativity.
SABC 1: Championing Local Music and Culture
The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) has consistently demonstrated a commitment to promoting local content across its platforms, with a mandate to inform, educate, and entertain by reflecting the nation’s diverse cultures and talent. By dedicating broadcast time to the Back to the City International Hip-Hop Festival, SABC 1 reinforces its role as a crucial supporter of the South African music industry, particularly within the dynamic hip-hop genre. This partnership ensures that the rich creativity and cultural significance of the festival reach a broader audience, underscoring the value SABC places on homegrown music and urban expression. This hip-hop music celebration benefits greatly from the SABC 1 broadcast.
Bringing the Back to the City Festival to Every Home
“This broadcast brings the culture to the people,” stated festival founder Osmic Menoe. “For anyone who missed it live, this is your chance to experience the energy and artistry that make Back to the City the heartbeat of South African hip-hop”. The televised event serves as an accessible platform, allowing those unable to attend the live festival to witness its scale and impact. It is a celebration of community, creativity, and the enduring spirit of hip-hop, solidifying its place in South Africa’s cultural narrative. The decision by SABC 1 to air the festival news is a significant step in amplifying the reach and influence of South African hip-hop music on a national scale. The Back to the City Festival deserves this national spotlight.
