Rock The Bells Festival Makes Historic New Jersey Debut at Prudential Center with “Class of 2025: Summer’s Kool” Lineup

Hip-Hop’s most influential voices are set to converge on Newark, New Jersey, as the Rock The Bells Festival announces its highly anticipated 2025 debut at the Prudential Center. Scheduled for Saturday, June 28, 2025, the landmark event will embrace the theme “Class of 2025: Summer’s Kool,” promising a vibrant celebration of the genre’s enduring legacy, cultural impact, and artistic evolution.

This marks a significant milestone as the pioneering Hip-Hop platform, founded by legendary artist LL COOL J, brings its flagship festival to New Jersey for the first time. In collaboration with the Black Promoters Collective, the festival aims to deliver an unforgettable night that resonates with the spirit of a true Hip-Hop homecoming, uniting iconic artists and fans alike.

A Celebration of Hip-Hop’s Golden Eras

The “Class of 2025: Summer’s Kool” theme draws inspiration from yearbook nostalgia and the vibrant energy of block parties, signifying a moment to honor the trailblazers who have shaped Hip-Hop culture. The festival’s curated lineup spans generations, featuring a diverse array of hitmakers and cultural torchbearers. Headlining acts include the electrifying Busta Rhymes, Newark’s own Redman, the reunited golden-era pioneers Eric B. & Rakim, the formidable Remy Ma, West Coast legend Too $hort, Houston’s storytelling maestro Scarface, and Southern staples Plies and Boosie. Adding to the stellar roster are New York wordsmith Fabolous, R&B-Hip-Hop crossover star Lil’ Mo, the influential KRS-One, the esteemed Big Daddy Kane, and the energetic M.O.P.

A special highlight of the festival will be the Uptown Records Celebration, a tribute to one of Black music history’s most influential labels. Curated by DJ Eddie F., this segment will feature performances from artists closely associated with the label’s groundbreaking sound, including Al B. Sure!, Donell Jones, Christopher Williams, and Soul For Real. This segment is a nod to the era that defined the intersection of Hip-Hop and R&B, showcasing artists who were instrumental in shaping the sound and style of a generation.

LL COOL J’s Vision for Hip-Hop’s Future

Founded by LL COOL J, Rock The Bells has evolved into a comprehensive multimedia platform dedicated to the elevation, preservation, and innovation of Hip-Hop culture. LL COOL J himself emphasizes that the festival is more than just a concert; it’s a cultural reunion designed to celebrate the artists who laid the foundation and the new voices pushing the genre forward. His vision is to ensure that Hip-Hop culture and its creators benefit directly from the platform he has meticulously built, asserting that “Rock The Bells has always been about the elevation, preservation, and innovation of Hip-Hop.” This commitment extends to reclaiming and safeguarding the intellectual property associated with the brand, ensuring its integrity and honoring the artists involved.

The event will be hosted by Hip-Hop pioneer Roxanne Shanté, with legendary DJ Kid Capri providing the soundtrack, ensuring the energy remains at peak levels throughout the evening. The festival also aims to celebrate the five elements of Hip-Hop, creating an immersive experience that goes beyond just musical performances.

Tickets and New Jersey Homecoming

Tickets for the Rock The Bells Festival 2025 went on sale starting with presales on Tuesday, April 23, 2025, followed by the general public sale on Friday, April 25, 2025. Fans can secure their spots via Ticketmaster.com and the official Rock The Bells festival website. As part of New Jersey’s larger summer celebration, the Prudential North to Shore Festival, this event is poised to be a significant cultural moment for the region.

The Rock The Bells Festival at the Prudential Center represents a significant cultural event, bringing together a powerful lineup that honors Hip-Hop’s storied past while looking towards its future. This news is a testament to the genre’s enduring appeal and its continuous ability to unite diverse audiences through the power of music and community.