The first generation of rappers in the Low Countries tried to emulate their American counterparts, but today the charts are filled with unique Dutch-language rap. That's why AB is introducing a brand-new concept: Rapsalon, a one-day festival celebrating hip-hop from the Low Countries. 

From old-school vibes to the latest tracks, Rapsalon provides a stage for both established artists and emerging talent. Whether you’re a seasoned hip-hop head or just getting into the genre, Rapsalon is the place to immerse yourself in the raw and authentic world of Dutch-language hip hop.  

Zwart Licht 

2024 marks 15 years since Zwart Licht released their debut album Bliksemschicht. In one fell swoop, they secured a top spot in the Dutch rap world. Tracks like Back Up Staat Klaar, Vanaf Nu and Guillotine brought with them impressive video clips, exciting shows and one of the most legendary 101Barz sessions ever. Their social criticism and incisive lyrics were paired with hard beats by Hayzee and left an indelible impression. 

The album, both poetic and provocative, is a cultural milestone that took the hip-hop scene to the next level. Bliksemschicht remains a timeless piece of work that will be remembered as one of the most influential albums in Dutch-language hip-hop history. In honour of this anniversary, Akwasi, Leeroy and Hayzee will be at AB for an exclusive show. SAY NO MORE! 

Extince 

Extince, born Peter Kops, is considered by many to be the father of Dutch hip-hop. He had his first, unsuccessful singles pressed with money that his father had actually given him to get his driver’s license. Success remained elusive until Osdorp Posse's Def P asked Extince to do a track in Dutch. 

In 1995, he had his first hit with the track Spraakwater. It was the first Dutch-language rap song to enter the charts and, as such, was also a seminal moment in hip-hop history. The single landed high in the Top 40 and also marked the birth of Kees de Koning’s record label Top Notch.  

But Extince is more than just a pioneer, he’s a storyteller in his own right. His lyrics are laced with social criticism, personal reflections and a good dose of humour. Tracks like Kaal of Kammen and Viervoeters evidence his versatility and ability to make complex themes accessible. From hip-hop lovers to mainstream music listeners, Extince knows how to win over a wide audience. 
He disappeared from the radar at times, but he never lost his vocal flow! 

Nnelg 

Nnelg grew up in Amsterdam-Zuidoost. The ‘you have to create your own opportunities’ mentality was instilled in him at home and in the Ghanaian Pentecostal community. With this drive, he has gained a strong position in the Dutch hip-hop scene in recent years. 

Nnelg recently released his second album Ik Zie Je, for the first time under the flag of Noah’s Ark and under his new artist name. Yung Nnelg was his previous alter-ego. Ik Zie Je exudes a lot of lust for life and hope, but at the same time doesn’t look away from the raw edges of life that everyone, including himself, deals with. Yung or old, Nnelg is still a boss! 

Ella John 

With her Surinamese roots and influences from trap, dance hall, grime and reggae, Ella John knows how to create a unique flow. She dropped her first track in June 2017 and since then her career has been on an upward trajectory. Her first EP Ofa was featured by 101Barz and she appeared on Zwart Licht’s Gunshot Remix EP. With an impressive string of shows at renowned venues and festivals, plus collaborations with some of the biggest names in the scene, Ella John proves time and again that she’s a promise for the future. 

Her energetic nature coupled with a laid-back vibe, form the common thread through all her tracks and also stand out during her shows. She’s not afraid to combine deeper, meaningful experiences with heavy sounds like trap and boombap. Word on the street has it that Ella was born rapping and dancing. 

Leblanco 

Rapper Leblanco was born in Amsterdam’s Bijlmer, but moved to Antwerp at an early age. The track Nokia spread like wildfire through the streets of Belgium via WhatsApp and soon became an official single. In the meantime, the viral hit counter is at more than 3 million(!) streams. He continued his rise with follow-ups like RS3 and Vlucht, resulting in a 2022 collaboration with Top Notch. 

The hard flow, trap beats and lyrics give a glimpse into his life and experiences. Leblanco always appears masked, proving that a real artist doesn’t need a face to convey a message. This show will be lit. Spread the word (via WhatsApp)! 

NOELL3 

Up-and-coming rap talent NOELL3 – who has already bagged a 101Barz session and a collaboration with CHO – has emerged as one of the leading talents in the Dutch-language hip-hop scene over the past year. On stage, NOELL3 excels with a show full of dance and choreography and an attitude to be envied. As an artist, NOELL3 wants to be an inspiration for other women who are trying to make it in the music industry. With her catchy flows and captivating lyrics, this rising star aspires to brightening the everyday lives of other ambitious youth. 

Deadbeat Larry

Deadbeat Larry came to life as a musical byproduct of a tough period in Larry's life. After more than ten years and several international projects, Larry is back in his homeland, Belgium, rapping his way through life in Dutch. His first EP, Voor de centjes, was released in 2023 and features collaborations with, among others, Zwangere Guy.

This is a Liveurope concert: the first pan-European initiative supporting concert venues in their efforts to promote emerging European music.