The Urban Exchange Returns – Gqeberha’s Culture Corner Reignites

On Sunday, 04 May 2025, Gqeberha’s cultural pulse finds its rhythm once more at The One Room Music & Comedy Club in Central. As the chosen venue for recent installments of The Urban Exchange, this space has become more than just a performance venue—it’s a sanctuary for creatives. The One Room is the premier destination in the city where artists can relax and be themselves, connecting with like-minded individuals who share their vision. It showcases diverse talents from across Gqeberha in a raw, unbridled display of creativity and passion. From Back To The Cypher hosted by Musa Sykotiq Tiego Mdlalose, to #URBANEXCHANGE hosted by Yahkeem Mavulakuvaliwe, and the annual gatherings of the entire O.T.E Artistry family, One Room is truly the place to be.

Brought to life by Makhi Concepts, The Urban Exchange continues to provide a vital platform for those who are often overlooked in mainstream spaces. It’s an event where authenticity is currency, and your story is your superpower. I had the opportunity to perform during the October 2024 edition and felt the love from the crowd and fellow performers alike. The energy is unfiltered and real—an artist’s dream.

This upcoming edition boasts a stacked lineup that reflects the growing strength of Eastern Cape artistry:

ZellaMan – A gritty, consistent voice in the city. We joined forces on “Fugitives,” and I’ve seen firsthand the way he commands a stage.

Azi SA (Azi Dladla) – Fresh off a feature on Big Xhosa’s “Almost Time,” Azi brings lyrical sharpness and a laid-back style that cuts deep.

Moyake – Known for “Soul Tied” and “I’m Good,” his work combines vulnerability and introspection with well-crafted bars.

Pura Lavisa – A spoken word artist and academic from eGcuwa, delivering powerful performances that merge intellect and emotion.

Beatology – Behind the decks, his beats bridge generations, blending boom bap, soul, and bounce.

Yahkeem Mavulakuvaliwe – Your charismatic host, guiding the evening with rhythm, presence, and poetic insight.

Entry is R50—a small price for an experience that feeds the soul. Whether you’re here to perform, connect, or just vibe, Urban Exchange welcomes you home.

#HIPHOPNAPHALADE