Rock the Bells Festival Returns to Newark with Star-Studded Lineup on June 28

LL COOL J's Rock the Bells festival will make its New Jersey debut at Newark’s Prudential Center on June 28, 2025, as part of the North to Shore Festival. The event, themed 'Class of 2025: Summer’s Kool,' features a star-studded lineup including Busta Rhymes, Redman, Eric B. & Rakim, Too $hort, Scarface, Remy Ma, Fabolous, KRS-One, Big Daddy Kane, and State Property, among others. The festival will also celebrate Uptown Records with performances by artists such as Al B. Sure!, Donell Jones, and Christopher Williams. Hosted by Roxanne Shante and DJ Kid Capri, the night aims to honor hip-hop’s legacy by bringing together pioneering legends and new voices. Founded by LL COOL J and presented with the Black Promoters Collective, the festival is positioned as a 'cultural homecoming' celebrating the elevation, preservation, and innovation of hip-hop. Presale tickets are available starting April 23, with general sales beginning April 25.