On September 29, 2025, Public Enemy took to the stage on Jimmy Kimmel Live! for an unforgettable performance that served as a celebration of their enduring influence and undeniable presence in the music world. The iconic hip-hop group, known for their revolutionary approach to both music and activism, performed a powerful medley of some of their most iconic tracks, including “Don’t Believe the Hype” and “Fight the Power,” alongside their new song “The Hits Just Keep On Comin.” This appearance not only highlighted the group’s rich history in music but also emphasized their ongoing relevance and commitment to delivering socially conscious messages through their art.
Public Enemy, led by the charismatic Chuck D and the ever-present Flavor Flav, has been an influential force in hip-hop since the late 1980s. With a legacy rooted in tackling issues such as racial inequality, political injustice, and societal oppression, the group has always pushed the boundaries of what music can achieve. Their work transcends the traditional boundaries of hip-hop, blending social activism with musical innovation. Songs like “Fight the Power,” with its defiant call to challenge the status quo, and “Don’t Believe the Hype,” which critiques the manipulative nature of media and public perception, became anthems for a generation grappling with political and social upheaval. Decades later, these songs remain as relevant as ever, resonating with new audiences who continue to find meaning in their powerful messages.
Their ability to inspire through music. When Chuck D delivered the opening lines of “Fight the Power,” the audience was transported back to a time when those words felt like a direct challenge to the structures of power in society. In 2025, with ongoing struggles for racial justice and equality, the song’s message still reverberates deeply. Public Enemy’s ability to craft songs that capture the urgency of societal issues is what makes their work so timeless and relevant, even as decades pass since their initial releases.
Alongside their classic hits, Public Enemy showcased their new track, “The Hits Just Keep On Comin,” which serves as a reminder that the group is far from finished. Far from resting on their laurels or living solely off nostalgia, Public Enemy continues to create music that carries the same potent energy and unflinching critique of the world around them. The track encapsulates their fearlessness and commitment to speaking out on issues that matter, proving that their voice is just as powerful today as it was when they first broke onto the scene. The fact that the group is still producing new material while maintaining their original message underscores their remarkable ability to evolve while staying true to their roots.
For Public Enemy, music has never been just about entertainment—it’s about pushing boundaries, starting conversations, and making change. Through every album, every performance, and every word, the group has consistently used their platform to challenge the systems of power and privilege that shape society. Their work has always been a call to action, urging listeners to wake up, think critically, and engage with the world around them. Their appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! was another reminder that they have never wavered from this mission.
Beyond the music itself, Public Enemy’s longevity also highlights the profound impact they’ve had on the culture of hip-hop and beyond. They were one of the first groups to introduce a sense of political consciousness into rap, influencing not just musicians but activists, filmmakers, and thinkers from all walks of life. Their use of music as a tool for activism has paved the way for countless others who see hip-hop not just as an art form, but as a movement with the power to inspire change.
As Public Enemy’s appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! reminded us, their relevance in the music industry goes far beyond nostalgia. While their iconic tracks continue to inspire fans from all over the world, their ability to adapt and create new music that challenges listeners to think critically ensures their place in the future of hip-hop. With their fearless activism, commitment to artistry, and refusal to be silenced, Public Enemy remains a force that will continue to shape the cultural landscape for years to come.
In conclusion, Public Enemy’s performance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! not only celebrated their unparalleled legacy but also reinforced their ongoing relevance as one of the most powerful voices in music. By blending timeless classics with new material, the group showed that their influence continues to grow, proving that their music is as vital and impactful today as it was when they first emerged. Public Enemy’s ability to use their platform to inspire, provoke, and challenge is what has cemented their place in history—and as they continue to make waves, it’s clear that their impact will be felt for generations to come.