Joy of Jazz festival returns with lively global line-up

WITH four reputable stages including the Dinaledi, Conga, Diphala, and Mbira stages, the 26th edition of the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz (SBJOJ) festival is poised to shine the spotlight on various jazz-inspired musical styles cutting across a range of world musical cultures and heritage.

- SIYABONGA SITHOLE

The much-anticipated festival will be making its return to the Sandton Convention Centre from Friday, September 26 to Sunday, September 28.

Among those enlisted in this year's stellar line-up of icons and innovators who embody the soul of jazz are Oumou Sangare (Senegal), Esparenza Spalding, Jose James, both from the USA, as well as local stars that include Thandi Ntuli, Andile Yenana, Gabi Motuba, Billy Monama, Vusi Mahlasela, Moss Mogale, and Muneyi.

In total, SBJOJ will feature more than 50 world-class performers from more than 10 countries.

For the 2025 SBJOJ, the curators are thought to be putting together a quarter-century instalment that includes lifestyle experiences and must-see musical acts. This year's stellar line-up was unveiled during an event held at the Artistry in Sandton on Tuesday.

The festival aims to present a kaleidoscopic vision of jazz, reflecting influences from Africa, Europe, East Asia, and the Americas.