Salt-N-Pepa set to return to Aotearoa for milestone hip-hop anniversary tour

Musical icons Cheryl “Salt” James and Sandra “Pepa” Denton have confirmed they will return to Aotearoa this summer to perform at Auckland’s Spark Arena on 1 December. Speaking to RNZ, the group expressed excitement about heading back to New Zealand as part of a high-profile line-up featuring Boyz II Men and Bell Biv DeVoe. The tour represents a significant gathering of 1980s and 1990s hip-hop and R&B royalty, celebrating artists who have collectively sold more than 100 million albums. Reflecting on their connection to local audiences, James told RNZ that the group has always felt celebrated in New Zealand. She noted that the fanbase remains "hardcore" and "diehard" decades after their debut. The duo, alongside DJ Spinderella, made history in 2025 by becoming the first female hip-hop act inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame—a milestone that follows a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Denton highlighted the personal significance of the upcoming tour, mentioning her eagerness to perform hits like "Gitty Up" for the Auckland crowd. She reflected on their journey as Black women in a male-dominated industry, noting that they successfully broke down barriers through persistence. The group shared that their impact extends beyond music, citing stories from fans who used their lyrics to navigate difficult life challenges and university years. The visit coincides with a period of reflection for the artists, who recently looked back on their groundbreaking career milestones. From boycotting the Grammys to ensure hip-hop received televised coverage to the simple joy of hearing their first record on the radio, Salt-N-Pepa continue to celebrate the enduring power of the genre. With billions of streams and staples like "Push It" and "Whatta Man" under their belts, their return to Tāmaki Makaurau marks a celebration of a legacy that continues to inspire across generations.