Columbia to Host Hip-Hop Concert Featuring Legends

Crowd enjoying a hip-hop concert at the Township Auditorium in Columbia.

News Summary

Columbia will welcome hip-hop icons Method Man and Redman for an exciting concert on February 8, 2025, at the Township Auditorium. Opening for them is local artist PATx from Lancaster, S.C., who aims to showcase his talent alongside these legendary performers. The concert highlights local talent and aims to promote the hip-hop community, organized by Greg Sword under the ‘Festers Last Call’ series. Additionally, Columbia faces rising crime statistics, including a notable increase in shoplifting incidents, prompting local police to implement new reporting measures.

Columbia Gears Up for a Hip-Hop Extravaganza!

Columbia is buzzing with excitement as the city prepares to welcome two hip-hop titans, Method Man and Redman, to the Township Auditorium on February 8, 2025. This highly anticipated event promises to be a night to remember, especially for one local artist who is set to steal the spotlight as the opening act. Patrick “PATx” Rutledge, originally from Lancaster, S.C., is beyond thrilled to have the chance to share the stage with these legendary performers known for their influential careers and hilarious chemistry.

The Big Night

As the clock ticks down to the concert, PATx is gearing up to make his mark. For him, this is more than just a performance; it’s an honor and a significant opportunity. Having closely studied the works of influential hip-hop artists and albums throughout his artistic journey, PATx is committed to representing the culture he loves. His dedication to hip-hop shines through in every note, every lyric, and this concert is a chance for him to showcase that hard work alongside his idols.

A Celebration of Hip-Hop

The concert is part of a larger ongoing effort to spotlight local talent and foster the hip-hop community. The event is organized by Greg Sword, who is also known for founding a series of monthly hip-hop showcases under the banner of “Festers Last Call.” Since its launch in August 2022, this platform has provided a venue for live performance talent, creating a vibrant space for artists to shine.

Crime Stats on the Rise

Columbia Police Department revealed a concerning uptick in shoplifting incidents. In 2024 alone, there were 426 incidents of shoplifting reported, marking a dramatic increase. To combat this rising trend and improve how businesses report these crimes, the police department is setting up an online form for businesses that will go live in December 2025. This new initiative is aimed at enhancing data collection and better utilizing police resources to address the situation.

Looking Ahead

Assistant Police Chief Mark Fitzgerald explained that the online form will only account for incidents valued at under $500. Any cases exceeding this threshold will still need to be reported directly to the police. As the year began, Columbia had already seen 15 reported shoplifting incidents, a significant jump from the previous year, demonstrating that the community continues to face challenges.

More to Come for PATx

As if opening for Method Man and Redman isn’t enough, PATx is also making a name for himself with several upcoming events. He is set to participate in the ATG Fest in February and the renowned SXSW in March. Music fans can expect even more from him later in the year as he plans to drop new music, further solidifying his presence in the hip-hop scene.

Get Ready for February 8!

The concert on February 8 is sure to be packed with energy, excitement, and unforgettable moments. As Columbia prepares to host hip-hop legends and rising stars, the community has much to look forward to. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Method Man and Redman or you’re keen to see what PATx has in store, mark your calendars—this event is not one to miss!

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Additional Resources

Columbia to Host Hip-Hop Concert Featuring Legends

STAFF HERE IRMO
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO

The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.

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