Celebrated for his gritty lyricism and unrelenting hustle, Queens-bred rapper Grafh made a powerful return to the stage last night at NYC’s legendary S.O.B.’s. The Roc Boys concert, centred around Grafh’s resurgence in the music industry, brought together a lineup of hip-hop heavyweights and a star-studded audience that included cultural influencers like MSNBC’s Ari Melber, Rory from the Rory & Mal podcast as well as legendary battle rapper & podcaster Math Hoffa.
A Queens native, Grafh first made waves in the early 2000s with a series of gritty mixtapes and a unique lyrical style that set him apart from the rest. His talent quickly caught the attention of major players in the industry, eventually leading to a deal with Roc Nation—a partnership that signalled his arrival in the big leagues. Known for his raw narratives and unfiltered lyrical delivery, Grafh’s earlier works earned him collaborations with industry giants like Nas and Busta Rhymes, as well as a loyal fanbase that has stayed true throughout the years. His journey, though marked by setbacks, has always been driven by resilience and a passion for his craft.
Kyah Baby (Remi Louis Harris / HipHopCanada)
Last night’s event felt like the culmination of years of hard work and persistence. The Roc Boys concert wasn’t just a showcase; it was a statement—Grafh is back and more focused than ever. As the evening unfolded, the crowd was treated to performances by some of New York’s finest up-and-coming talents, setting the stage for what would become an unforgettable night. But it was Kyah Baby, the city’s favorite freestyler, who truly set the tone for the night. Her dynamic performance had the crowd on their feet, delivering bar after bar with the kind of energy that only New York can produce. As she closed out her set, the room buzzed with anticipation for what was to come.
Grafh & “Rocafella Chain”
When Grafh finally took the stage, the energy in the room was electric. Launching straight into a series of fan-favorites, he reminded the crowd why he’s been a staple in New York hip-hop for so long. But it was the performance of his summer anthem “Rocafella Chain,” featuring 38 Spesh, Freeway, Peedi Crakk, and Memphis Bleek, that truly brought the house down. Each verse hit harder than the last, and the chemistry between the artists was incredible as they fed off each other’s energy, delivering a performance that felt both nostalgic and fresh.
Just when the crowd thought the night couldn’t get any better, Method Man, Memphis Bleek as well as Freeway surprised everyone with individual impromptu performances that nearly blew the roof off the iconic venue. The legendary hip-hop artists’ presence alone elevated the evening to another level, as they commanded the stage with the skill and charisma that made each of them hip-hop icons. Their appearances are a testament to Grafh’s impact and influence within the industry, proving that his re-emergence is being felt far and wide.
The night’s climax came when Grafh was presented with his very own Roc-A-Fella Records chain by New York legend Pain In Da Ass, a moment that was as emotional as it was triumphant. Surrounded by friends, collaborators, and fans, he held the chain up high—a symbol of not just industry recognition, but of a journey that has come full circle. The cheers were deafening as Grafh thanked everyone who had supported him. Grafh’s return to the spotlight is not just a win for him, but for the entire New York hip-hop scene.
Grafh’s story is one of resilience, and last night’s performance was a reminder that true talent and perseverance can overcome any obstacle. With his latest project gaining traction and the Roc-A-Fella chain now resting proudly around his neck, Grafh’s re-emergence signals a new chapter for an artist who has always been about more than just the music. As the night drew to a close, it was clear that Grafh’s journey is far from over. If last night was any indication, he’s ready to take on whatever comes next—and the city of New York is more than ready to watch him do it.
