PE Hip-Hop Awards 2025 Is Bigger Than Ever
LyleGhost
20 May 2025
What started as a local awards night has grown into something way more powerful — a gathering of some of the realest voices in the game.
Something big is happening in Gqeberha. The city known for birthing lyrical beasts and street-bred talent is getting ready to take its spotlight once again. The 3rd Annual PE Hip-Hop Awards (PEHHA) is more than just an event—it’s a movement, a cultural celebration, and a much-needed recognition of those keeping the flame alive in the Eastern Cape’s hip-hop scene.
This year? It’s looking bigger, better, and bolder than ever before.
Who’s Making All of This Happen?
Behind PEHHA are two visionaries who didn’t wait for permission—they made their own lane. Cheslin Syce, known in the streets as Chezzy of the North, and Sherano Stevens, also called Don Dolla, are the driving forces behind this powerful platform.
Chezzy is an NMU graduate, a family man, and someone who believes in building from the bottom up. He’s not just about the music—he’s about community, purpose, and leaving a legacy.
Sherano is the kind of leader who puts his money and energy where his mouth is. He personally funded the first-ever PE Hip-Hop Awards, showing his full commitment to the culture. Together, they run the Stevens Music Foundation, focusing on mentorship, development, and real opportunities for local artists.
This Year’s Host: A True OG
Holding it down as host this year is none other than Kaista Black, founder of the iconic Brieke Op Lirieke. Kaista’s been part of the hip-hop scene since the '80s and '90s, making him a perfect link between the old school and the new wave.
Having a veteran like him on stage is a powerful reminder that we stand on the shoulders of legends.
Women Holding It Down Behind the Scenes
While the artists shine under the lights, there are two powerhouse women making sure the entire machine runs smoothly:
Melissa Booysen (Mel B): Founder of The Next Us Events & Entertainment and the Coloured Supremacy Movement, Mel B is an event planning guru with a vision for cultural pride and excellence.
Marchelle L. Davies: Cultural worker, activist, and entrepreneur, she’s all about empowering indigenous voices and bringing depth to the creative industry.
Together, they’re the quiet force pushing this event forward in style.
Special Guests Bringing Big Energy
This year’s guest list is packed with heavy hitters. Here’s who’ll be pulling up:
Mr MP – A lyrical tactician with respect across the board.
Cadin Lewis – Boss of Public Health Entertainment and a key player in pushing Afrikaans music to new heights.
Benji YTTG– A soulful, melodic voice representing the new school with real passion.
21 Promo & Pengi – Straight from Platinum Sabela, these two are repping for the streets with raw, honest music.
Their presence? It shows just how seriously PEHHA is being taken.
Let’s Talk About That Line-Up
The stage is set, and the performances this year are going to shake the city:
Jon-Dre: Back again after winning Rapper of the Year and EP of the Year in 2024. His gritty style and realness have made him a voice for the voiceless, especially those from Kleinskool.
Junior King & Kay Medusa: These two are flying the flag for Kallit Afrikaans Hip-Hop like never before. With over 2 million Spotify streams and millions in YouTube views, they’ve rocked shows from LA to Miami, sharing stages with Post Malone, Meek Mill, and Bryson Tiller. It’s not just music—it’s a movement.
Fat Squad Music Group: Comprising Josh and Seba FS, these two are documenting the daily hustle and raw stories of their community through music and visuals. Their growth is undeniable.
SAAN: A voice of depth and truth, SAAN is known for emotionally charged music that sticks with you. Backed by producer Waggie, he’s delivering something spiritual this year.
Jodi Montana & Starboy: Gqeberha’s most exciting duo right now. They’ve got chemistry, they’ve got bars, and their visuals speak volumes. They’re the new wave—and they’re riding it all the way to the top.
More Than Awards—It’s About Impact
The PE Hip-Hop Awards has become more than just trophies and shout-outs. It’s about giving local artists a platform to grow, get seen, and connect. It’s about celebrating culture, language, hustle, and raw talent.
Whether you’re from the Northern Areas, Kleinskool, Soweto on Sea, or Motherwell—this is your time.
Die movement is aan. Moenie uitmis nie.
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