Birmingham Hippodrome's popular free festival returns for its 10th anniversary, celebrating all things Hip-Hop! B-SIDE is set to bring together extraordinary artists and breathtaking performances, showcasing the vibrant energy and creativity of Hip-Hop culture. Dive into its four iconic pillars: the dynamic moves of breakin', the colourful expressions of graffiti art, the electrifying sounds of DJ'ing, and the powerful words of MC'ing. This is your chance to experience the heart and soul of Hip-Hop through unforgettable acts and a vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss this remarkable milestone event—it’s free, it’s exciting, and it’s for everyone!

B-SIDE brings together extraordinary artists and breath-taking acts from across all four pillars of Hip-Hop: breakin, graffiti, DJ'ing and MCing.

Matt Evans, Head of Festivals & Sites at Birmingham Hippodrome, said: “We are incredibly excited to celebrate ten years of B-SIDE Hip-Hop Festival. Over the last decade, the festival has championed talent from across the pillars of Hip-Hop, whilst giving, fans and local communities a platform to celebrate everything that Hip-Hop represents.

“This year’s programme includes favourites from the festival’s history, plus some exciting new additions. From iconic battles and bold exhibitions to street sports and workshops, there will be something for everyone. It’s going to be truly unforgettable”

Exploring Birmingham's Rich Hip-Hop Heritage

Birmingham boasts a vibrant hip-hop history that dates back to the 1980s and 1990s, when pioneering groups like Moorish Delta 7 and M.S.I. & Asylum laid the foundation for the city's unique musical identity. Known for their creativity and lyrical prowess, these acts helped establish Birmingham as a key player in the UK hip-hop scene. Moving into the early 2000s, The Streets, led by Mike Skinner, brought a fresh perspective by incorporating distinctly local accents and homegrown sounds into their music, further defining the evolving Birmingham hip-hop sound. Together, these trailblazers have cemented Birmingham’s status as a hub for authentic and innovative hip-hop artistry.

Birmingham’s Rich History of Graffiti Art

Birmingham has a thriving history of graffiti art, with the scene particularly flourishing in creative hubs like Digbeth. This area has become synonymous with vibrant street art, showcasing pieces that reflect the city's dynamic cultural identity. Over the years, Birmingham's graffiti culture has been heavily influenced by celebrated street art festivals such as City of Colours and High-Vis. These events have not only highlighted local talent but also attracted renowned artists from across the globe, transforming the city's walls into an open-air gallery. Today, Birmingham stands as a testament to the power of urban art, reflecting its community spirit, creativity, and ever-evolving culture.