Widely celebrated as a pioneer within the amapiano genre, Kelvin Momo’s smooth soundscapes and infectious rhythms have captivated SA's contemporary music scene.
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As the countdown begins to one of South Africa's most anticipated musical celebrations, the Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF) is ready to enchant audiences again.
Scheduled for Friday, April 25, and Saturday, April 26, at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), this year’s festival promises to be an enthralling tapestry of sound, bringing together both beloved legends and fresh newcomers.
For young music enthusiasts, this is an unmissable opportunity to experience the magic live!
While jazz festivals may often conjure up images of quiet introspection for some, the CTIJF is determined to defy the stereotype and redefine how the genre is perceived.
With a line-up that caters to diverse tastes, the festival aims to captivate both die-hard jazz aficionados and newcomers alike.
From pulsating rhythms to modern melodies, this year’s event seeks to create an electrifying atmosphere that resonates with all attendees.
Here are some headlining acts that promise to delight younger audiences:
Kelvin Momo
One of the most anticipated performances comes from none other than Kelvin Momo.
Widely celebrated as a pioneer within the amapiano genre, Momo’s smooth soundscapes and infectious rhythms have captivated SA's contemporary music scene.
His live sets, known for their ability to transport listeners, promise to keep festival-goers on their feet.
Those who appreciate the art of blending house and jazz will find profound resonance in Momo’s music, truly embodying the essence of modern South African artistry.
No festival would be complete without the legendary TKZee.
Image: Supplied
TKZee
No festival would be complete without the legendary TKZee. This iconic kwaito group, formed in the 1990s by Kabelo Mabalane, Zwai Bala, and the late Tokollo Tshabalala, burst onto the scene with unforgettable hits like "Palafala" and "Shibobo."
As they take the stage at CTIJF 2025, audiences can expect an exhilarating journey through time, reviving nostalgic memories while introducing their electrifying sound to a new generation of fans.
Their ability to engage audiences spans decades, showcasing the enduring spirit of kwaito and its relevance in today's musical landscape.
Representing the contemporary soul of jazz, Benjamin Jeptha is a rising star known for his innovative sound that blends African rhythms with modern jazz and hip hop.
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Benjamin Jephta featuring Kujenga
Representing the contemporary soul of jazz, Benjamin Jeptha is a rising star known for his innovative sound that blends African rhythms with modern jazz and hip hop.
Jephta, accompanied by the evocative talent of Kujenga, is poised to deliver a performance that is both soulful and intellectually stimulating.
This masterclass in groove and improvisation promises to immerse the audience, highlighting the transformative power of music in connecting the heart and the mind.
Black Coffee and Nduduzo Makhathini's chemistry honed through years of collaboration, promises a musical odyssey that will captivate attendees from start to finish.
Image: Arthur Dlamini
Black Coffee and Nduduzo Makhathini
Again, no festival would be complete without a performance from the globally revered Black Coffee.
Joining him is the also soulful Nduduzo Makhathini, whose collaborative history with Coffee goes back to their days at the Technikon Natal in Durban.
In what will be an inaugural concert, this dynamic duo plans to mesmerise audiences by merging classics with brand-new compositions, delivering a set enhanced by an orchestra and vibrant percussion.
Their chemistry, honed through years of collaboration, promises a musical odyssey that will captivate attendees from start to finish.
Thandiswa Mazwa's artistry encapsulates the soul of a nation, making her performance an unmissable highlight of the festival.
Image: Supplied
Thandiswa Mazwai
Festival-goers can look forward to a soul-stirring performance from the legendary Thandiswa Mazwai, whose powerful voice and touching lyrics have made her a beloved figure among the youth.
Fusing Xhosa heritage with elements of jazz, soul, and Afro-futurism, Mazwai’s performances draw on deep emotional narratives that resonate universally.
Her artistry encapsulates the soul of a nation, making her performance an unmissable highlight of the festival.
Effortlessly blending jazz, soul, and modern groove, Ari Lennox’s performances are intimate yet electrifying.
Image: Supplied
Ari Lennox
Rounding out the line-up is Ari Lennox, who will be making her South African debut at this year’s festival.
Lennox, known for her sultry R&B sound, captivates audiences with her heartfelt melodies and intimate stage presence.
She promises to deliver electrifying performances that blend jazz, soul, and contemporary groove, inviting festival-goers into a world where passion meets vulnerability, leaving an indelible mark on their hearts.
The CTIJF is not just a showcase of diverse musical talent but also a celebration of cultural exchange and unity through music.
This year, it serves as a vital platform for emerging artists, inviting music lovers of all ages to discover and support local talent.
As the festival continues to grow, it fosters a vibrant love for the arts while elevating the profiles of its performers.
Whether you're a seasoned jazz aficionado or a newcomer eager to dive into SA's rich musical tapestry, the CTIJF is set to be an exhilarating weekend filled with rhythm, joy and communal spirit.
Prepare to be captivated by what promises to be an extraordinary festival experience unlike any other!
* Tickets are available at ticketmaster.co.za. For more information, visit capetownjazzfest.com, download the CTIJF Festival App, and follow @officialcapetownjazzfest on social media for exclusive content, artist takeovers, and behind-the-scenes moments.
Lutho Pasiya’s picks on songs to get you in the mood:
