Angélique Kidjo and Kamasi Washington headline a tribute-rich, star-studded 2026 edition
By Bulelwa Hoala
The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Festival is set to return to the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg from 25 to 26 September 2026, marking the 27th edition of one of Africa’s premier live music experiences.
The official lineup was unveiled at a glitzy launch event hosted by Lerato Mvelase in Braamfontein on Wednesday, 29 April.
According to organisers, this year’s edition aligns with key national milestones, including the 50th anniversary of the Soweto Uprising and 70 years since the Women’s March. These moments have helped shape a programme that is both meaningful and musically rich.
Global highlights include Angélique Kidjo and acclaimed saxophonist Kamasi Washington, both set to perform at the festival for the first time.
On the local front, the festival continues to prioritise collaboration and storytelling through music.
Highlights include:
- Themba and Afrika Mkhize presenting Reflections of Mzansi Big Band
- Thandiswa Mazwai honouring Hugh Masekela
- Khaya Mahlangu paying tribute to Kippie Moeketsi
- Standard Bank Young Artist Award winners Gabi Motuba (jazz) and Manana (music) showcasing new work
Stage highlights at a glance
Dinaledi Stage – The Heartbeat of Jazz Innovation
- Features major names like Ibrahim Maalouf, McCoy Mrubata and Judith Sephuma
- Includes a tribute to Kippie Moeketsi led by Khaya Mahlangu
- Ola Onabule performs music from Proof of Life
- Closes with Dumza Maswana’s Umngqunqgo Orchestral Experience, featuring a 20-piece orchestra
Diphala Stage – Women, Voice and Musical Leadership
- Celebrates women in jazz, with Nubya Garcia, Gabi Motuba and Lorraine Klaasen
- Lorraine Klaasen returns to South Africa, continuing the legacy of Thandi Klaasen
- Standout concept: “4 Bass Lines” featuring four women bassists
- Focuses on women as creative leaders in jazz
Conga Stage – Rhythm, Energy and African Influence
- High-energy performances from Tank and the Bangas, Reza Khota, Madala Kunene and Sibusile Xaba
- Sydney Mavundla presents Dirge of Our Fathers
- Tumi Mogorosi leads the Thank You For Your Service Quartet with Soweto Kinch
- Finale by Ndabo Zulu and the Umgidi Ensemble, featuring Nduduzo Makhathini
Mbira Stage – Soul, Storytelling and New Voices
- Features Floetry, Nomfusi and Anaïs Rosso
- Includes a tribute to Busi Mhlongo
- Artists like Internet Athi and Manana bring fresh energy
- Soweto collective Gurulogic adds a fusion of deep house and acid jazz
- Thandiswa Mazwai closes with a tribute to Hugh Masekela
Tickets for the 2026 Standard Bank Joy of Jazz are available via Ticketmaster, priced at R1 150 for a Friday or Saturday general admission day pass, and R2 250 for a full weekend pass.
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