UK rap star Central Cee will join Skepta’s Big Smoke Festival at London’s Crystal Palace Bowl on August 9 and 10, 2025, reinforcing the event’s focus on genre-defining talent.
The festival, part of the broader South Facing Festival series, will spotlight live performances on Saturday, with Skepta headlining a rare solo set alongside grime veteran Chip, rising artist Chy Cartier, and a debut back-to-back collaboration between JME and Frisco.
Central Cee’s inclusion underscores his rising influence, following global hits like “Sprinter” and “Let Go.” Skepta praised the move, stating, “Cench is undeniably dominating the UK rap game at the moment. It’s both an honor and privilege to add him to Big Smoke’s lineup.” Saturday’s roster promises high-energy performances, while Sunday shifts to Skepta’s Más Tiempo label, featuring a curated dance music lineup yet to be announced.
Tickets for the two-day event are on sale via the festival’s website, with weekend passes in limited supply. The South Facing Festival, co-produced by Live Nation and Soundcrash, has previously hosted acts like Grace Jones and Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, blending music with street food and cultural experiences at the historic Crystal Palace Park venue.
Central Cee, a West London native, rose to prominence with mixtapes Wild West and *23*, both critical and commercial successes that cemented his status in UK rap. Skepta, meanwhile, continues to bridge genres, recently launching his 48 Hours project while advancing house music through Más Tiempo.
The Big Smoke Festival’s dual-day format reflects a broader trend in UK music events, balancing live rap and electronic acts to cater to diverse audiences. As festivals increasingly blend established and emerging talent, Skepta’s curation highlights the enduring appeal of grassroots scenes amid mainstream success. Crystal Palace Bowl, a storied open-air venue, remains a fitting backdrop for this convergence of sound and culture.
