South Facing Festival is set to deliver an incredible day of hip-hop royalty as one of the most influential and celebrated MCs in hip-hop history announces an unforgettable all-day event, and their only London festival appearances this summer. Legendary rapper Busta Rhymes will take the stage for a one-of-a-kind performance, bringing decades of hits, high-energy performances, and undeniable star power to Crystal Palace park, alongside some iconic names in hip-hop.
Arguably one of the greatest rap and hip-hop MCs to ever grace the mic, Busta Rhymes has built a legacy of lyrical excellence, rapid-fire delivery, and chart-topping success. Since the release of his debut album ‘The Coming’ in 1996, certified Platinum and topping the US R&B charts, Busta has continued to dominate the hip-hop landscape. With classic albums like ‘When Disaster Strikes’ and ‘Anarchy’, as well as global hits like Look at Me Now and Don’t Cha, his impact on the genre is undeniable. With 11 Grammy nominations under his belt, Busta Rhymes has proven time and again that he is a force to be reckoned with, bringing an unmatched energy to stages around the world. Fans can expect a high-octane set filled with classic anthems, deep cuts, and the kind of electrifying stage presence that has made him a global hip-hop phenomenon.
Also joining is the legendary New Jersey rapper Redman, a gritty, animated hip-hop icon known for his funk-infused style, sharp punchlines, and enduring influence. Emerging in the early ’90s after mentorship from EPMD, he broke through with his solo debut Whut? Thee Album, kicking off a run of gold and platinum releases including Dare Iz a Darkside, Muddy Waters, and Doc’s da Name 2000. Known for his raw lyricism and energetic delivery, he also made waves through collaborations, most notably with Method Man, and topped rap charts with both solo and group efforts. In the 2000s, he continued his success with Malpractice, launched his own Gilla House label, and remained a fixture in hip-hop, culminating in the 2024 release of Muddy Waters Too, a tribute to his legacy and artistic evolution.
Big Daddy Kane is also confirmed for this incredible line-up of hip-hop talent. The Grammy Award-winning American rapper started his career in 1986 as a member of the rap group the Juice Crew and is widely considered to be one of the most influential and skilled MCs in hip hop. Rolling Stone magazine ranked his song ‘Ain’t No Half-Steppin’ #25 on its list of The 50 Greatest Hip-Hop Songs of All Time, calling him ‘a master wordsmith of rap’s late-golden age and a huge influence on a generation of MCs.
Adding to the high-energy of the day is the charismatic and instantly recognisable Chali 2na, whose deep baritone voice and dynamic stage presence have made him a fan favorite. Best known for his work with Jurassic 5 and Ozomatli, Chali 2na will bring his signature style and lyrical mastery to the festival. Also gracing the decks are Supa Dupa Fly, HHBITD, Don’t Flop and Hip Hop Chip Shop DJs.
South Facing is a multi-day, open-air festival that takes place each summer in the historically significant Crystal Palace Bowl. The festival boasts a huge choice of top-end street food and drink options including street food, craft ale and rum shack, and is easily accessible from London and all over the South East thanks to the various train and bus routes, including Crystal Palace (TfL Overground and National Rail), Penge West (TfL Overground and National Rail), and Gipsy Hill (National Rail). So far this year, announcements have included Nile Rodgers & CHIC, Basement Jaxx, Skepta’s Big Smoke festival, Flackstock, Mogwai and more.
Previous years have included huge headline performances, with Grace Jones, Damian Marley, Supergrass, Sleaford Mods, The English National Opera, Richard Ashcroft, Becky Hill, Bombay Bicycle Club, Jungle, and Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, all gracing the stage.
