Rising hip-hop star Lolli Native delivered one of the the most talked-about performances at the 2025 Back To The City Festival, sharing a powerful onstage moment with veteran stalwart Big Zulu, while building momentum behind the upcoming music video for “Guess Who’s Back (feat. Emtee).”
A night to remember at Africa’s biggest hip-hop festival
Back To The City Festival, dubbed “the biggest hip-hop festival in Africa”, returned on 11 October 2025 in Newtown, Johannesburg, bringing 100 artists, 20 DJs, graffiti crews, activations, and a crowd of 18,000 under the rallying theme “Power in Numbers.” The festival’s legacy as a crucible of South African hip-hop culture has grown over nearly two decades.
Under overcast skies and amidst a roaring crowd, artists moved seamlessly across lineups. Coverage described the event as a “masterclass in culture and community,” with fans chanting lyrics, dancing through rain, and embracing the raw energy of the moment.
It was on this stage that 38 Talent artist Lolli Native delivered a performance that left many calling it one of the festival’s high points, showing command, presence, and a connection with the audience.
The moment: Lolli Native meets Big Zulu
Among the highlights was a surprise shared segment with Big Zulu, one of South Africa’s most respected rap figures. Big Zulu, who rose from working as a taxi driver to becoming a dominant force in South African hip-hop has long inspired many newer artists. In a gesture that bridged generations, Lolli and Big Zulu exchanged bars and energy onstage, amplifying Lolli’s growing credibility in the broader South African rap landscape.
That moment signified more than a performance, it was symbolic: a fresh voice being acknowledged by a scene heavy-weight, on one of the continent’s most prestigious stages.
Video buzz: “Guess Who’s Back (feat. Emtee)” in motion
Not content with just delivering onstage fireworks, Lolli Native and Emtee recently wrapped the shoot for the official music video for “Guess Who’s Back (feat. Emtee)”, a standout track from his Amandla album. Behind-the-scenes footage shared across social media has already stirred excitement amongst fans.
On the 38 Talent and artist’s social media channels, glimpses of the set, production elements, and Emtee and Lolli in creative collaboration have generated strong engagement. The track itself already carries weight in Lolli’s catalog, and the visual will further propel its reach.
Fans are now on the edge of their seats, awaiting the official video premiere, a moment expected to cement the song’s presence across platforms and amplify Lolli’s rising profile.
