A symphony of heritage and future: Standard Bank Joy of Jazz unveils bold 2026 line-up

The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Festival returns for its 27th edition, solidifying its status as one of Africa’s premier live music experiences.

The festival will take place at the Sandton International Convention Centre in Johannesburg on 25–26 September 2026.

Over nearly three decades, Joy of Jazz has evolved from an intimate event with 1,800 attendees in 2000 to a major cultural gathering drawing over 25,000 festivalgoers annually. It has become a cornerstone of South Africa’s live music calendar, blending world-class performances with deep cultural significance.

This year’s programme is both celebratory and reflective, honouring the roots of South African jazz while embracing its ongoing evolution and global future.

“Joy of Jazz has always been about more than performance. It’s about creating moments of connection across generations, cultures and geographies. This year, we are intentional about curating a programme that reflects where we come from, while boldly stepping into where we’re going,” said Mantwa Chinoamadi, Festival Producer.

The 2026 edition aligns with two pivotal national milestones: the 50th anniversary of the 1976 Soweto Uprising and 70 years since the 1956 Women’s March. These historic moments provide a meaningful frame for a programme that is as socially resonant as it is musically compelling.

Standard Bank’s longstanding partnership underscores its commitment to the arts. Bonga Sebesho, Standard Bank Group Head of Sponsorship said:

“Standard Bank’s long-standing support of Joy of Jazz reflects our continued commitment of nurturing African excellence and preserving cultural heritage. As champions of the arts, we believe the platform continues to showcase the depth, diversity and global relevance of African jazz, while contributing meaningfully to the creative economy.

“Each year, the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz consistently presents the truest and most authentic jazz programming on the continent. As a bank we are proud to make art possible and in doing so, make jazz possible. And that’s in all the senses: to create, to showcase, and to make it more accessible.”

Economic and cultural impact

Beyond the music, the festival serves as a significant economic driver. It has historically generated over R34.5 million in direct spending, contributed approximately R86 million to the Gauteng economy, and supported more than 1,200 temporary and permanent jobs across the value chain.

Major cultural events like Joy of Jazz bolster a creative sector that contributes billions to South Africa’s GDP each year.

“What makes Joy of Jazz unique is its ability to create shared value for artists, audiences, small businesses and the broader economy. It’s not just a festival; it’s an ecosystem,” said Chinoamadi.

Initiatives such as the Jazzy Joburg Market, which supports over 25 SMMEs annually, further amplify its role in fostering local entrepreneurship and tourism.

A Star-Studded, multi-generational line-up

The 2026 line-up fuses international icons making their festival debuts with celebrated South African artists and bold new voices.

Global highlights include Benin’s Angélique Kidjo and acclaimed Los Angeles saxophonist Kamasi Washington, both performing at Joy of Jazz for the first time.

On the home front, the programme emphasises collaboration, legacy, and innovation:

• Themba and Afrika Mkhize present Reflections of Mzansi Big Band.

• Thandiswa Mazwai honours Bra Hugh Masekela.

• Khaya Mahlangu pays tribute to Kippie Moeketsi.

• 2026 Standard Bank Young Artist Award winners Gabi Motuba (Jazz) and Manana (Music) showcase new work.

Thandiswa Mazwai said: “Honouring Bra Hugh is deeply personal. His music shaped not just jazz, but the spirit of this country. To reinterpret his work on this stage is both an honour and a responsibility.” .

Four distinct stages, four unique vibes

Dinaledi Stage:The Heartbeat of Jazz Innovation:

This main stage delivers large-scale, high-impact performances featuring Ibrahim Maalouf, McCoy Mrubata, Judith Sephuma, and Khaya Mahlangu’s special tribute to Kippie Moeketsi. British-Nigerian singer-songwriter Ola Onabule brings material from his latest album Proof of Life, while baritone vocalist Dumza Maswana closes with the epic Umngqunqgo Orchestral Experience, a 20-piece orchestral ensemble blending indigenous rhythm, jazz, and spiritual storytelling.

Diphala Stage: Women, Voice and Musical Leadership

This stage celebrates exceptional vocalists and instrumentalists, with a strong focus on women in jazz. Highlights include Nubya Garcia, Gabi Motuba, and Lorraine Klaasen (daughter of the late Sophiatown legend Thandi Klaasen), returning from Canada for a rare home-soil performance. A standout project is “4 Bass Lines”, featuring four women bassists; AusTebza, Rochelle Rautenbach, Chantal Willie-Petersen, and Orlanda Da Conceição who take centre stage as leaders and architects of sound.

“This project is a celebration of women occupying space boldly in jazz not as supporting acts, but as architects of sound and direction,” said Chinoamadi.

Conga Stage: Rhythm, Energy and African Influence

Rooted in high-energy African musical traditions, this stage features Tank and the Bangas, Reza Khota, Madala Kunene, and Sibusile Xaba. Sydney Mavundla performs his album Dirge of our Fathers, a tribute to musical elders. Drummer Tumi Mogorosi presents the Thank You For Your Service Quartet with UK saxophonist Soweto Kinch and others. The stage closes with trumpeter Ndabo Zulu and his Umgidi Ensemble, featuring Nduduzo Makhathini, Linda Sikhakhane, Muneyi, and more.

Mbira Stage: Soul, Storytelling and New Voices

This intimate stage blends jazz with neo-soul, poetry, and contemporary sounds. Expect performances from Floetry, Nomfusi, French-Congolese singer-guitarist Anaïs Rosso, and a special tribute to Busi Mhlongo by Buhlebendalo Mda, Zawadi YaMungu, and Xolisa Dlamini. Additional acts include Internet Athi, Standard Bank Young Artist Manana, and the upbeat Soweto collective Gurulogic, which fuses deep house and acid jazz. Thandiswa Mazwai wraps up the stage with her interpretations of Hugh Masekela’s songbook.

More than music: A Cultural and Economic Catalyst

The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz is far more than a music festival, it is a vital cultural and economic force that nurtures talent, supports local businesses, and strengthens Johannesburg’s position as a creative hub.

Tickets are now available via Ticketmaster:

• R1 150 – Friday or Saturday Day Pass (General Admission)

• R2 250 – Weekend Pass (Friday and Saturday)

Standard Bank cardholders qualify for up to 15% discount (limited to two tickets per person, subject to availability and Ts & Cs).

This 27th edition promises unforgettable nights of connection, reflection, and musical excellence where legacy meets innovation on the stages of Johannesburg.