Belgian Hip-Hop Archives: “The Golden Era”

Belgian Hip-Hop Archives: “The golden era”

A deep dive into the 90s Belgian hip-hop records, books, and memorabilia

Here’s a little story that must be told…

A deep dive into the archives of Belgian hip-hop culture, focusing specifically on the 1990s (golden era of hip hop). The exhibition showcases a key selection of 40 original vinyl covers, posters, flyers, magazines, books, stickers and memorabilia from that particular period of time.

Hip-hop culture in Belgium traces its roots back to 1983, with the first recorded release emerging in 1990 through the Brussels Rap Convention. Belgian hip-hop boasts 35 years of recorded music and 42 years of cultural legacy.

Notable albums, compilations and artists from the 90s include Brussels Rap Convention, Rhyme Cut Core, Defi-J, De Puta Madre, 9MM Mc’s, Bigshot, Starflam, Malfrats Linguistiques, H-Posse, Fidèle au Vinyl, Rival, Souterrain Mc’s, Pitcho, ‘T Hof van Commerce, Krewcial, City Kingz, After Hours, Déhael and much more. These recordings shaped the sound of Belgian hip-hop, blending local identity with global influences. The DJ and turntablism scene was equally vital, with figures like Grazzhoppa, Killa Tactics, Transformerz, HMD, Lefto and others. Whether through parties, mixtapes or battles, these DJs helped bring Belgian hip-hop to life. Belgium also gained momentum in the 80s & 90s with crews such as Dynamic Three,  Dynamic Rockers, Namur Break Sensation for breakdancing and crews such as RAB, CNN, JNC for the graffiti scene.

The exhibition is an invitation to rediscover a pivotal time in Belgian hip-hop history—a moment when the culture was raw, innovative, and unstoppable.

The exhibition is built around a collection curated by Chrislivendirect, a dedicated collector and activist who has preserved essential artifacts from this influential period.