Also scheduled to perform: Big Boi, KRS-One, Reflection Eternal (Talik Kweli and Hi-Tek), Tech N9ne, RZA, Raekwon, K'Naan, Sage Francis, Slaughterhouse, Buckshot, M.O.P., Necro Slum Village, Eyedea & Abilities, Evidence & Alchemist, Psycho Realm, Mystic Journeymen, Chali 2na, the Knux, Mickey Factz and Tabi Bonney.

The factions in hip-hop today between the weird, tight-pants kids, the "young and lil" ringtone rappers and old heads really aren't much different from the gangsta vs. alternative rap schism of 20 years ago, except that back then we didn't have to choose sides. In that spirit, Rock the Bells is a hip-hop experience across multiple styles and eras, from the internationally informed and politically charged work of K'Naan to M.O.P.'s riot-starting thug anthems and everything in between. This marathon concert, with acts on multiple stages, includes artists such as KRS-One, who helped write the book on what hip-hop is, to recent arrivals such as Mickey Factz adding the newest chapters.

--Rhome Anderson (May 2009)