Since its inception in 2023, the GU Kickback has proven to be an experience like no other. Guests are immersed in a musical wonderland to officially kick off the GU festivities at the ESSENCE Festival of Culture. This year was no different.
The violet neon lights illuminating the walls of The Fillmore New Orleans set the tone for a night to remember. As the venue began to fill, the crowd buzzed with anticipation, ready for show-stopping performances from T99zy, Moliy, Chxrry, and KentheMan. And while the music was front and center, the Kickback also offered that much-needed “auntie-free” zone—an open space to dance, vibe, and connect with fellow festgoers. Missed it? Don’t worry. Here’s everything you need to know about how the night went down.
Hosted by Twitch streamer Zoe Spencer, the evening opened with New Orleans-based rapper T99zy performing his viral 2024 hit “Trip Out,” joined by Trip Out dance creator La Edgar. While running through his set, the bounce artist stepped offstage and into the crowd, sparking a lively dance circle that included a special cameo from the NOLA native’s grandmother—yes, you read that right—who had the whole room shaking.
Then came Chxrry, who had us fully in our feelings with a mic-on performance of her soulful 2023 single “World’s Away.” Her voice and presence made everyone in the room feel like the Main Character—lover girlies included.
Moliy followed up with an electrifying performance of her hit single “Shake It to the Max.” The Ghanaian-American singer is having a major moment, with the track holding the no. 1 spot on the U.S. Afrobeats Billboard chart for eight weeks straight. The song, which went viral on TikTok with its signature dance challenge, now features a remix with Silent Addy, Skillibeng, and Shenseea.
Closing out the show was Houston-born rapper KenTheMan, who delivered one last unforgettable turn-up. She performed tracks from her 2025 album Kinda Famous, plus fan favorites like the rap anthem “Not My.” The crowd fed off her energy as she hyped up her upcoming nationwide Kinda Famous tour, which kicks off July 12 in San Francisco.
If you missed this year’s after-party, don’t worry—mistakes happen. We hope to catch you next year, but in the meantime, see all the action here.