If all the performers were drugs, then we were definitely the fiends, because you can’t convince me we weren’t high off the performances. Loyal to the Plug: The Show was nothing short of perfection this past weekend, a well-curated and executed celebration of South African hip-hop at its finest.
I actually arrived early. Like, way earlier than 25K himself, because that’s what a real music journalist does (laughs). Security was tight, energy was brewing, and as the venue started to fill up, I knew I was in for a night to remember.
SmallBabesDJ kicked things off, setting the tone with a high-energy set that got the crowd moving from the jump. Then, Maglera Doe Boy pulled up, because of course, he’d be there early to support his brother 25K. Their bond runs deep, and when they hit the stage together for “Izinja” (the one sampled from Mapaputsi), the place went wild. That performance alone could’ve been the night’s highlight — and we were only getting started.
Drihanna took over next, and let me tell you, it was my first time seeing her live, and she owned that stage. Beyond her looks, her skill and confidence on the decks were undeniable. At one point, she even stepped out from behind the booth to dance with the crowd — pure showmanship.
Then came A-Reece and DJ Clen, and honestly, I think the hate A-Reece gets on Twitter doesn’t exist in real life. The crowd knew every single lyric. From old classics to his newer joints, it felt like his own headline show. The building was shaking, literally.
Loatinover Pounds might just be the best performer in the country right now. If not yet, give him a year. Pretoria showed him mad love, not just because he’s local, but because he’s HIM. When the crowd screamed “Faka Punyete!” at the top of their lungs, you could feel the pride in the air. Propaganda was packed, ground floor, mezzanine, VIP, you name it.
Then the man of the hour, 25K. Dressed like a rockstar, think Prime Michael Jackson vibes — shiny top, black pants, pure star energy. He performed with a live band, dripping confidence (and sweat) like a broken tap. Every single person in the venue gave him his flowers. He ran through his entire catalogue, and his fans rapped along to every word. You could tell these were day-one supporters who’ve been with him since Pheli Makaveli. It was a moment.
Teejay Mr Trapstar and Mochen also brought the city together with their sets; both know how to move a crowd. At one point, the moshpit went crazy during Mr Trapstar’s DJ set. G-Tech 2Bit came through next, receiving all the Pretoria love he deserves.
And then there was FLVME. Pretoria loves him, and he gave it right back. His performance was clean, confident, and powerful.
Lastly, Emtee the Hustler, a national treasure. No debate. His set went toe-to-toe with A-Reece’s for performance of the night. He came to remind everyone why he’s one of the greatest to ever do it. After his set, he dipped, mission accomplished.
As for the non-hip-hop acts? Respectfully, I didn’t focus on them. I’m hip-hop to the core, and this night was for us.
Thank you, Hip-Hop.
Thank you, 25K.