After several years away, rap group 18.3 is making its comeback on July 19 at Palais des sports Mahamasina, driven by strong fan demand. The Génération 2000 artists are returning to the stage. The return is finally confirmed. Repeatedly requested at previous Génération 2000 editions, group 18.3 will take the stage on July 19 starting at 1 p.m. at Palais des sports Mahamasina. The members say they were solicited for years before feeling ready to reconnect with their audience. "Fans have been asking us to come back for years. This edition is the right one and we're finally answering their call," they explain.

Génération 2000 will bring together artists who defined the 2000s for a roughly four-hour show. Organized by Sr Event with support from Yas Madagascar, the event will feature reinterpretations accompanied by DJ Hman, hybrid versions blending rap and acoustic, two surprise guests, and several unreleased duets. Tempo Gaigy is preparing new staging, Marion has surprises in store, while Tovo J'Hay aims to revive the emotions of that era.

For this major comeback, 18.3, composed of Slam Jah and TongueNat, will revisit several albums with multiple tracks performed. "We're bringing our albums back to life. We returned to the studio to rework the tracks with today's technical capabilities to deliver a great show and relive those years," the artists emphasize.

The members clarify that "18.3" is now the group's name and no longer refers to the number of members. Born in late 1997 and officially launched in January 1998 at Davy's initiative, the group released its first album in 1999 before touring with Samoëla. All coming from dance backgrounds, its members later joined one of Madagascar's first rap collectives.

TongueNat shares discovering rap after being drawn to rock: "I fell in love with rap. This music gave me confidence when I was very shy." The group explains that each member brings their sensitivity to songwriting, blending social issues with touches of humor, while adapting their music to technological evolution.

Despite some disagreements over the years, members insist their longevity rests on solid values. "Listening makes a relationship last and respect makes a group last, even when there are differences." They don't plan to welcome a new member. "No one will replace Davy. He's part of our history and we'll continue to pay tribute to him."

Through this Génération 2000 edition, the goal is to unite multiple generations around artists who marked their youth.