Ryan Swano
The heartbeat of Cape Town’s Hip Hop and Reggae scene will come alive on Friday, 26 September 2025, as Ekapa Hip Hop and Reggae Afrika Sound System present Back2Basics – a night dedicated to authentic live music, community, and culture. Taking place at the Royal Ras Centre in Athlone, this vibrant event promises a dynamic mix of live performances, DJs, food stalls, clothing vendors, and 420 paraphernalia, creating an immersive experience for music lovers and entrepreneurs alike.
At its core, Back2Basics is about more than entertainment. It’s a platform designed to unite and empower the local hip hop and reggae community, offering up-and-coming artists and small business owners the chance to showcase their talents and products. The event’s mission is simple but powerful: Unite. Network. Develop. Build.
Bridging the Gap: South Cape Coast Meets Cape Town
One of the most exciting aspects of this edition of Back2Basics is its focus on bringing together artists from beyond Cape Town’s borders. The featured performers all hail from the South Cape Coast, specifically the towns of George and Mossel Bay, and are making a special trip to connect with Cape Town’s thriving hip hop and reggae community.
These artists regularly collaborate with Cape Town musicians, but this event provides a rare opportunity for local audiences to experience their talent live. It’s also a chance for Cape Town-based artists, producers, and music lovers to interact, network, and build bridges with creatives from outside the city. This cross-regional exchange reflects the true spirit of Back2Basics — uniting communities through music and shared cultural expression.
A Powerful Line-Up of Live Performances & DJs
Headlining the night is Hakkiesdraad Hartman, a celebrated hip hop artist, poet, and community activist known for his dynamic performances and socially conscious lyrics. With three independent albums and multiple collaborative projects under his belt, Hakkiesdraad has graced stages from the KKNK to the Fiesta Awards alongside musical greats like Francois van Coke and Lynelle Kenned.
Joining him is Robert Fak U Smalls (Andile Citashe), a seasoned performer whose track “Unotshe” became a Spaza Hip Hop classic. His latest album, Worth It, has solidified his reputation as one of the most compelling voices in South African hip hop.
Completing the trio is Terrible Dan, a powerful dancehall and reggae artist whose music blends conscious messages with infectious rhythms, reflecting his deep connection to the Rastafari faith.
Adding to the night’s energy, a talented roster of DJs will take to the decks, including Craig Davis aka Ras Danamite, Leslie Hermans, Ryan Fifth Element aka Ryan Swano, and DJrealROZZANO aka Rozzano Davids, who will also serve as the evening’s host and master of ceremonies. With their diverse styles, these DJs will keep the dance floor buzzing, seamlessly blending hip hop, reggae, R&B, neo-soul, and house beats.
Back2Basics Event Details
Presented by Best of Ekapa Hip Hop in conjunction with Reggae Afrika Soundsystem, Agapanthus Street Media, and with Bruinou.com as the official media partner, Back2Basics isn’t just a party — it’s a cultural gathering that bridges communities, offering Cape Town audiences a chance to discover new sounds while giving South Cape Coast artists a platform to shine.
Doors open at 8 PM, with the festivities continuing late into the night. Entry is R100, with a R40 corkage fee for those bringing their own drinks.
Venue: Royal Ras Centre, 5 Noll Ave, Hatton Estate, Athlone
Date: Friday, 26 September 2025
Time: 8 PM – late
ALSO READ: The Previous BACK2BASICS – A Celebration of Hip Hop Culture & Reggae Vibes
Back2Basics promises to be an unforgettable night of music, connection, and collaboration. Whether you’re a dedicated hip hop head, a reggae lover, or simply seeking an authentic Cape Town experience, this is a night not to be missed.
