As October draws to a close, the air is buzzing with excitement from the incredible events that have defined the month. Yet, one experience stands out like a beacon of creativity and culture: Back to the City 2024. I had the privilege of attending this legendary festival, graciously invited by Hennessy, and it was nothing short of a celebration of everything I love—music, fashion, and, of course, basketball.

Being a basketball enthusiast and analyst, my relationship with Hennessy runs deep. They share my passion for the game and the culture that surrounds it, so it was no surprise to see them take centre stage at Back to the City. From the moment I stepped into the festival in Newtown, Johannesburg, I felt the electric energy that resonates with the spirit of hip-hop.

The festival was a perfect fusion of sounds, sights, and styles, showcasing over 100 local and international artists and 60 vibrant stalls. Each corner overflowed with the pulse of South African hip-hop, and the performances were nothing short of spectacular. I particularly enjoyed the sets from OKMalumkoolkat and Hennessy’s very own Maglera Doe Boy. The vibes were immaculate—ne gole monate maan! 

And let’s talk about the cocktails. Hennessy took the experience to another level with expertly mixed drinks that perfectly complemented the festivities. Sipping on those delicious concoctions while soaking in the performances made for a truly unforgettable evening.

One of the standout features of the festival was the interactive Basketball Cube, complete with 360° cameras that allowed attendees to capture their favorite moments. As a basketball lover, this was a dream come true. It beautifully tied together the worlds of sports and hip-hop, reminding us of the strong bond between these cultures.

Lungile Mpharu, Brand Manager at Hennessy South Africa, perfectly captured the essence of the event when he said, “Hennessy’s brand identity is deeply influenced by the culture of hip-hop. Back to the City gave us the perfect platform to demonstrate Hennessy’s commitment to celebrating and elevating this space. We are a brand that goes beyond crafting iconic spirits; we champion the culture that defines us.”

Back to the City 2024 was a resounding success, leaving an indelible mark on the urban landscape and showcasing the vibrant culture that makes South Africa so unique. I left the festival feeling inspired and energized, grateful for the opportunity to experience such an incredible celebration of hip-hop, fashion, and community.

As the month of October wraps up, I can’t help but look forward to the next iteration of this festival. Until then, I’ll be sipping on Hennessy cocktails and reflecting on the unforgettable moments that made Back to the City an event to remember.