The Urban Exchange: Gqeberha’s Hip-Hop Culture Comes Alive
LyleGhost
20 October 2025
Cyphers were a major highlight, giving local talent an open platform to showcase their bars, flow, and creativity. Lyle-Marvin Ruiters orchestrated the cypher sessions, while Beatology kept the crowd hyped with seamless sets that kept the energy moving from start to finish. The audience played their part too, cheering on every performance and supporting the culture with unmatched enthusiasm
On 5 October 2025, The Urban Exchange Hip-Hop Show brought Gqeberha together for an unforgettable celebration of local talent. From the cyphers to the main stage, the city’s Hip-Hop scene showed its strength, creativity, and passion. This edition highlighted the vibrancy of Xhosa hip-hop, spaza rap, and the rising energy of Eastern Cape artists.
The event was curated by Yahkeem Mavulakuvaliwe and featured headline performances by El Nino Drie and Gxarha SA, alongside standout acts like Epic the Scriptwriter, Slim Uzzi, Ujo, and Gqala. Every artist brought raw energy, stage presence, and authenticity, reminding attendees why Gqeberha’s Hip-Hop culture is not just alive — it’s thriving.
Cyphers were a major highlight, giving local talent an open platform to showcase their bars, flow, and creativity. Lyle-Marvin Ruiters orchestrated the cypher sessions, while Beatology kept the crowd hyped with seamless sets that kept the energy moving from start to finish. The audience played their part too, cheering on every performance and supporting the culture with unmatched enthusiasm.
The success of the event was made possible through collaboration and support. Special thanks go to Makhi Concepts for vision and coordination, all participating artists for their dedication, and the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) through the Mzansi Golden Economy (MGE) for backing the initiative.
Held at The One Room, The Urban Exchange continues to serve as more than a music event; it is a movement. It is a space where community, creativity, and culture intersect — a hub where Hip-Hop thrives and local artists can shine.
For attendees and artists alike, 5 October was a testament to the power of collaboration, dedication, and love for the culture. Gqeberha’s Hip-Hop scene is evolving, and The Urban Exchange is leading the way.
Stay connected for upcoming events, artist spotlights, and more from the Eastern Cape Hip-Hop scene at Espazza.co.za.
Watch El Nino's performance: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/14MAZ8WiwYT/
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1EoJ8Edr7G/
#TheUrbanExchange #TheOneRoom #XhosaHipHop #SpazaRap #HipHop #GqeberhaEvents #DRIEMANSKAP #Gxarha #ElNinoDrie #EpicTheScriptwriter #SlimUzzi #Ujo #Gqala #DSAC #MGE
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