FRATPACKER WORLD.

There’s something powerful about a global artist choosing Johannesburg as a meaningful stop on a world tour and Gunna did exactly that (because the music gods know that some artists like leaving africa out of their world and atlas). His appearance at the second edition of the Milk and Cookies fest felt intentional, well-timed, and deeply in tune with the city’s energy (plus he had a nice trial run when Heineken brought him last year). Taking place early in the year, the festival is fast becoming one of Joburg’s most exciting cultural reset points a moment where music, lifestyle, and community align to set the tone for what’s ahead.

Big props have to go to Milk and Cookies for not just building momentum with a sophomore edition, but for anchoring it in quality experiences. The festival’s growth signals confidence and this year’s lineup, headlined by Gunna, proved they’re here to stay.

Beyond the music, what stood out most was Gunna himself specifically his fitness journey and the discipline he’s been vocal about embracing. In an era where artists are increasingly transparent about personal growth, Gunna showing up committed to wellness felt refreshing. That commitment was brought to life in Joburg through a collaborative moment that blurred the lines between touring and local culture.

Shoutout to the Warner Music South Africa team and Milk and Cookies for making sure Gunna didn’t just pass through the city, but moved with it, literally. Ensuring he completed his 5km run in Johannesburg alongside the Vault Strength Club was a powerful gesture. It wasn’t performative (he actually runs); it was participatory and inclusive . A global star running Joburg streets with a local run club is the kind of cultural exchange that matters health, community, and authenticity all wrapped into one moment. Of course online engagement seekers had some cute comments about participants paying to run the 5KM. However all one has to do is research on run culture and it would register that runners pay to participate in runs and races so this didn’t fall out of the scope of a runner. Plus some got to run with their favourite artist and got some Under Armour x Gunna merch too.

Then came the performance, and Gunna delivered. The crowd erupted as soon as the opening notes of “Fukumean” rang out, turning the venue into a sea of movement and energy. “Again” also rang off with a different kind of smooth yet rage like vibe. Gunna’s ability to balance raw trap energy with melodic finesse was on full display.

And of course, when WGFT dropped, the atmosphere shifted. The ladies went absolutely crazy , voices louder, phones higher, and the connection between artist and audience unmistakable. It was one of those moments that reminded everyone why Gunna’s music resonates the way it does: emotional, confident, and made to be felt live.

Gunna’s Joburg stop was fire and from the reviews, it seems Jozi showed Cape Town how to rock. Milk and Cookies continues to prove its vision, Warner Music SA showed what thoughtful artist experiences look like, and Joburg showed up running shoes on, hands in the air.

If this is how the year is starting, the city is in good hands.