LL COOL J’s Rock The Bells Festival Brings “Class of 2025: Summer’s Kool” to Newark’s Prudential Center on June 28th

NEWARK, NJ – Hip-Hop’s biggest reunion of the year is landing in New Jersey as LL COOL J’s Rock The Bells Festival returns with an explosive lineup and a legacy to match. On Saturday, June 28, 2025, the Prudential Center in Newark transforms into the ultimate celebration of music, culture, and community for one unforgettable night: “Class of 2025: Summer’s Kool.”

Founded by the legendary LL COOL J, Rock The Bells continues its mission to honor and uplift Hip-Hop’s pioneers, preserve its rich legacy, and showcase the next generation of lyrical greatness. In partnership with the Black Promoters Collective and part of the Prudential North to Shore Festival, this year’s Rock The Bells is more than a concert—it’s a cultural moment.

A Lineup That’s Nothing Short of Legendary

Headlined by some of Hip-Hop’s most influential voices, the 2025 lineup is stacked with icons, innovators, and show-stopping surprises:

• East Coast Kings like Busta Rhymes, Redman, Remy Ma, Fabolous, and State Property return to the mic with raw energy and lyrical fire.

• Golden-era legends KRS-One and Big Daddy Kane bring the knowledge and cadence that defined a generation.

• R&B powerhouse Lil’ Mo is set to deliver a soulful and emotional performance, balancing out the night’s raw edge with rich melody.

• West Coast and Southern giants like Too $hort, Scarface, Plies, and Boosie will bring the heat with their signature sounds and stories.

Busta Rhymes

Redman

Remy Ma

For Hip-Hop purists, this is a dream bill. Eric B. & Rakim, arguably the most influential duo in rap history, will reunite for a rare performance. Also hitting the stage: gritty ‘90s street poets Capone-N-Noreaga, crowd-hypers M.O.P., and new-school lyricists Coast Contra, proving the culture is alive, thriving, and generational.

Uptown Records Tribute – A Historic Reunion

For the first time ever, Rock The Bells will host a monumental tribute to Uptown Records, curated by DJ Eddie F., celebrating the label that launched legends. The Uptown Records & Untouchables Family Celebration includes performances by:

• Al B. Sure!

• Christopher Williams

• Donell Jones

• Soul For Real

• Jeff Redd

• Monifah

• Horace Brown

• Intro

• Father MC

• CL Smooth

• Mr. Cheeks

These voices defined an era of Black music and will come together for a once-in-a-lifetime tribute to one of the most influential labels in urban music history.

Hosted by a Queen, Soundtracked by a Legend

The night will be hosted by none other than Roxanne Shante, the first lady of rap, bringing her pioneering spirit and presence to the mic. And on the decks? The legendary DJ Kid Capri, setting the tone for a night steeped in authenticity, nostalgia, and nonstop energy.

This Is More Than a Concert — It’s a Cultural Homecoming

“Class of 2025: Summer’s Kool is not just a festival. It’s a reminder of how Hip-Hop shaped our lives,” said LL COOL J. “We’re paying homage to the legends and embracing the voices pushing the genre forward.”

With unmatched star power, this is one of the most anticipated Hip-Hop events of the year—a masterclass in storytelling, rhythm, and resistance.

🎟 Tickets are on sale now at www.rockthebellsfestival.com

📍 Event Details:Rock The Bells Festival 2025 – Class of 2025: Summer’s KoolDate: Saturday, June 28, 2025Location: Prudential Center – 25 Lafayette Street, Newark, NJTime: Doors open at 6:30 PM | Show starts at 8:00 PM

🔥 WANT TO WIN YOUR WAY IN?

Head on over to @jayrobshow and follow us on Instagram with all the instructions for your chance to win a pair of tickets to this unforgettable night. From the beats that moved us to the voices that shaped us—don’t just hear about it, be there. Class is in session. See you at Rock The Bells.