If you missed Punyete Sontaga, you might be overlooking a significant event in Pretoria’s hip-hop scene, particularly for fans of Pitori Bros. It was truly the spot to be on that Sunday evening, with attendees immersed in a celebration of culture.
The venue, 012 Central, was filled with a diverse mix of hip-hop enthusiasts, including rappers, DJs, media figures, and fans, all eager to see the performances by Loatinover Pounds. Arriving ahead of schedule, my intention was to escape early after a long shift in Cape Town, yet the atmosphere was already vibrant. The crowd was swelling, excitement filled the air, and it was evident that Pounds has fostered a dedicated community willing to faka punyete alongside him indefinitely.
Acknowledgments to his team were due, as the event was efficiently managed. Adequate staff ensured operations ran smoothly, security personnel maintained safety, and paramedics were present as an added precaution. This level of organization contributed to a professional and friendly environment.
Prior to the rain causing an interruption, The Qwellers set the initial mood of the evening. Blue Pappi started with his tracks and then invited the entire crew to perform their popular songs. It was inspiring to witness the Pretoria crowd respond with such enthusiasm, especially given the discerning nature of local fans. The Qwellers made an impressive mark.
As Nanette took the stage, she captivated the audience, but just as her performance intensified, rain prompted a shift indoors. It took about two hours for the crew to shift the setup to the hall and reset the sound system, yet the atmosphere remained positive. Attendees were engaged in conversation and laughter, reveling in the celebration with Pounds.
Once the sound was restored, the initial DJ, whose name is not revealed, was deserving of acknowledgment for his versatility. He balanced a mix of genres, and when he played some yanos, the crowd’s energy surged. It marked a turning point for the night.
DJ Clen then took the stage, delivering a dynamic set that fused his originals with some of South Africa’s most popular hits and international favorites. The crowd responded with fervor, edging towards the stage, swept up in the electric atmosphere that lasted for an invigorating 30–45 minutes.
The highly anticipated moment arrived when A-Reece took the stage. The crowd’s response was unforgettable: fans of all ages erupted with enthusiasm, celebrating as if in the presence of an icon. His performance was seamless, concluding with classics from Paradise.
Before exiting, A-Reece invited 25K to share the stage, and the audience recited every lyric as if they were all part of the performance. The support for local artists was palpable, with 25K giving a performance that matched the evening’s excitement.
At last, it was time for the night’s headliner, Loatinover Pounds. His performance stood out as one of the highlights of his career. Observing the affection from the Pretoria crowd was a poignant moment. I witnessed Mamazala live for the first time, alongside 25K, with even a star from the Mamazala video joining him on stage for acknowledgment. Pretoria’s artists truly know how to uplift each other.
Pounds also surprised the audience by bringing Mochen on stage to showcase an unreleased track that promises to be a future hit. Many anticipate that it will be featured on Mochen’s upcoming album, which is set to release soon.
Not finished yet, Pounds transitioned from performing to DJing, unveiling a different facet of his artistry as Loatinover Pound, the Barcadi DJ. He ended the night with a selection of energetic tracks, captivating the crowd with the contagious Mabopane dance vibe. Witnessing him enjoy his time behind the decks as the audience celebrated was a markedly joyful moment.
Punyete Sontaga serves as more than just a performance; it signifies a growing movement. There is a strong call for more artists to establish their own platforms, encouraging brands to seek them out instead of the reverse.
Overall, it was a 10/10 experience.
