Hip-hop’s greatest and brightest stars descended upon Newark, New Jersey, for an additional unimaginable yr of music in the course of the annual Rock The Bells Competition on June 28. The lineup featured a heavy-hitting record of hip-hop icons, together with Lil’ Mo, Remy Ma, Fabolous, LL Cool J, Busta Rhymes, Redman, and extra.
Hosted by the enduring Roxanne Shante, the competition wasn’t only a gathering — it was a strong homage. Together with her signature power and unapologetic charisma, Shante reminded the group that this wasn’t merely a reunion; it was a celebration of hip-hop’s legacy and a name to honor its previous, current, and future.
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The evening roared to life with Lil’ Mo, Fabolous, and Child Capri setting the stage ablaze, mixing soulful hooks, gritty bars, and traditional turntablism to immediately lock the group into the second. Lil’ Mo regarded unimaginable as she commanded the group. Wearing a fierce customized bodysuit created by stylist Jaesyn Burke and adorned with the phrases “Lil Mo Was Right here,” the “Tremendous Lady” hitmaker delivered an easy efficiency with unimaginable type.
Then got here LL Cool J, who stormed the stage with an explosive efficiency of “Rock The Bells.” As a bonus, he shocked followers with an unique preview of Hip Hop Was Born Right here, his upcoming docuseries created in collaboration with Peyton Manning, set to premiere July 22 on Paramount+.
One of the electrical highlights of the evening was the extremely anticipated State Property reunion. Freeway, Beanie Sigel, Peedi Crakk, and Younger Gunz introduced simple power, tearing by way of Philly-bred anthems like “What We Do,” “Rock the Mic,” and “Can’t Cease, Gained’t Cease,” shaking the group with each verse.
Remy Ma, Busta Rhymes, and extra stored the power excessive.
The lyrical gods, Rakim and Large Daddy Kane, took the stage subsequent, education the viewers with razor-sharp rhymes and masterful stage presence. Their back-and-forth supply was each a tribute to and an indication of true hip-hop artistry. In a shock twist, Grandmaster Flash made an look mid-set, reminding everybody why he’s one of many style’s architects.
Holding the momentum alive, Memphis Bleek linked up with Capone and N.O.R.E. for a hard-hitting shock set, diving deep into street-certified bangers and Queens anthems that lit the group up with uncooked power.
Child Capri made a triumphant return, this time backing Remy Ma, whose excessive power, invigorating stage presence, and razor-edged supply had the viewers in full consideration mode. Remy gave the group her all, churning out traditional hits like her 2006 banger “Immodest.”
Bringing the evening to a thunderous finale, Busta Rhymes—flanked by Rah Digga, Papoose, and the ever-hype Spliff Star—lit up the stage with a high-octane efficiency. A surprising, AI-powered visible sequence launched the explosive opener “Contact It,” setting the tone for a cinematic shut. Simply when the power peaked, shock video cameos from Mariah Carey and Janet Jackson lit up the screens, seamlessly syncing with crowd favorites like “I Know What You Need” and “What’s It Gonna Be,” sending the viewers right into a frenzy.
Did you attend this yr’s Rock The Bells competition? Inform us about your expertise within the feedback part.
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