Maftown Heights 2024: A Spectacular Celebration of SA Hip Hop Culture
Since its groundbreaking inception, Maftown Heights has grown from a niche music festival into the pulsating heartbeat of South African Hip Hop. A cultural phenomenon and rite of passage for friends of Motswako and Hip Hop enthusiasts alike, it has built its legacy on iconic performances and unforgettable moments. The 2024 edition, set against the vibrant backdrop of Mary Fitzgerald Square in Newtown, Johannesburg, raised the bar once again. Co-curated by Hip Hop legends Khuli Chana and Maglera Doe Boy, this year’s festival was a masterclass in celebrating the past, present, and future of the genre—an experience that will echo through the culture for years to come.
As a Hip Hop head, Maftown Heights had always been a bucket-list event for me. The Channel O documentary a few weeks back only added fuel to the fire, leaving me hyped and ready for what was promised to be an unforgettable experience. Walking into Mary Fitzgerald Square, I was amped for the beats, the culture, and the atmosphere I’d heard so much about. By the end of the night, one thing was clear—this wasn’t just a festival. It was Hip Hop in its purest, loudest, and most unapologetic form.
Bridging Generations: The Evolution of SA Hip Hop
Maftown Heights was a celebration of the evolution of SA Hip Hop—a journey through time that honored the golden Motswako era while spotlighting the fresh voices redefining the genre today. It was a masterful blend of nostalgia and innovation, showcasing how far the culture has come and where it’s headed next.
I made it just in time to catch DJ Speedsta’s set, which turned the clock back to my high school days. When he dropped Special Somebody featuring Cassper Nyovest, Anatii, and Riky Rick, it felt like the entire square was swept up in a wave of nostalgia. It was more than a performance; it was a cultural reset, taking us back to a time when the genre was thriving in its early mainstream glory.
Nadia Nakai and Moozlie took the stage shortly after, delivering an unforgettable girl-power moment. Watching them trade verses on hits like ‘Mbongo Zaka’ and ‘Amantombazane Remix,’ with the crowd rapping along, was incredible. But it was bittersweet. As much as I loved seeing women shine on that stage, I couldn’t help but wish we had a femme rap boom like the one sweeping the West.
The future, though, looks as bright as ever. Rising stars such as Dee Koala, the Qwellers, Usimamane, and Tony Dayimane didn’t just meet expectations—they shattered them. Each act brought fresh energy and undeniable talent, proving that the new wave isn’t just carrying the torch—it’s rewriting the script.
Drip Check: The Fashion Scene at the Festival
At Maftown Heights, the music wasn’t the only thing setting trends—the fashion was just as spectacular. The festival grounds were a runway of bold streetwear pieces, with the S-Wave and Skhanda Wrld pop-ups serving as hotspots for anyone looking to elevate their drip. Think bomber jackets in daring colour palettes, sleek straight caps, and exclusive Maftown Heights merch that had fans lining up for hours.
The crowd brought their A-game, too. Retro-inspired jerseys, backpacks, and statement sneakers were the order of the day, turning Mary Fitzgerald Square into a living, breathing streetwear editorial. It was a visual reminder that Hip Hop’s influence isn’t confined to beats and bars—it’s a lifestyle.
Unforgettable Performances and an Electric Crowd
The performances were everything I’d hoped for—and more. Khuli Chana, The Motswako Republic, K.O., Emtee, and Cassper Nyovest were just a few of the heavyweights who hit the stage.
One of my personal highlights was Emtee. I feel like he doesn’t get enough credit for his consistency and longevity, but he reminded everyone why he’s one of the greats. The crowd rapped along to every hit, bar for bar, and the energy was unmatched.
Another standout was the dynamic duo of Jay Jody and A-Reece. Watching the brothers feed off each other’s energy on stage was electrifying. Their chemistry is undeniable, and the crowd loved every second of it.
And then there was the crowd itself—a true reflection of the culture. From hyping up the artists to belting out lyrics like their lives depended on it, everyone brought their best energy. Being surrounded by people who live and breathe Hip Hop made the experience even more special.
Food, Drinks, and Fireworks
Of course, no festival experience is complete without good eats and drinks. From gourmet wings and burgers to Shisa Nyama and tacos, the food stalls brought their A-game, keeping us fuelled for hours of dancing (or ant least trying my best to) and cheering.
And just when I thought the night couldn’t get any better, the sky erupted in a dazzling fireworks display during the Motswako Republic set. It wasn’t just a spectacle—it was a celebration of everything Maftown Heights stands for: unity, creativity, and the unbreakable spirit of Hip Hop.
Let’s talk about the essentials—food and drinks. The stalls brought their A-game, offering everything from gourmet burgers and wings to tacos and Shisa Nyama. I was there for hours, so having good food to keep me going was a win.
Paying Tribute to the Greats
No Hip Hop celebration is complete without honouring the icons who paved the way, and Maftown Heights 2024 stayed true to this unwritten rule. During his set, DJ Venom delivered a soul-stirring tribute, playing timeless hits from the late AKA and Riky Rick, two legends whose fingerprints are all over the South African Hip Hop scene as we know it. Jay Jody kept the nostalgia flowing with an emotional performance of his verse from Washa, in memory of DJ Citi Lytes. The night wouldn’t have been complete without a heartfelt nod to Motswako heavyweight HHP, whose contribution to Hip Hop remains etched in the hearts of fans nationwide. It was a powerful reminder that while these legends may be gone, their legacy is eternal.
Final Thoughts: Hip Hop is Forever
As the fireworks faded and the last echoes of the night’s beats settled, one thing was certain: Maftown Heights 2024 wasn’t just a festival—it was a love letter to Hip Hop, penned by the culture’s finest and addressed to everyone who’s ever been moved by its power.
If you missed it, make it your mission to be there next year. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like the magic of Maftown Heights. This is Hip Hop—loud, proud, and forever.
