The 2026 Standard Bank Joy of Jazz festival took place at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg on September 25 and 26, bringing together music lovers from across the country. The two-day event featured four stages with performances from local favourites and international stars. This year's festival was notable for its laid-back atmosphere, allowing attendees to discover new artists and enjoy the music without worrying about missing specific performances.
One of the discoveries at the festival was Sydney Mavundla, who performed at the Conga Stage. His performance of "Dirge for our Forefathers" from his 2024 album caught the attention of many attendees. Mavundla's storytelling through song, accompanied by the upright bass and piano, added a unique layer to his performance. His set left a lasting impression on many, including this year's reviewer, who was inspired to add his album to their music library.
Kabomo Vilakazi, a neo-soul singer and actor, has been attending the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz since its early days in Newtown. He has watched the festival grow over the years, particularly since its return after the Covid-19 interruption. Vilakazi praised the festival's organization and the loyalty of South African audiences towards local musicians. He noted that even with major international artists on the line-up, audiences still turn out in large numbers for local performers.
The festival featured a mix of generations, with younger audiences filling the Mbira Stage for Manana and then moving to the Conga Stage for Grammy-nominated New Orleans group Tank and the Bangas. Lead vocalist Tarriona "Tank" Ball delivered an energetic performance, interacting with the crowd while the rest of the group kept the room moving. The combination of jazz with soul, R&B, and neo-soul has opened the genre up to younger listeners.
Thandiswa Mazwai paid tribute to Hugh Masekela at the Mbira Stage, performing his song "Stimela", which had the audience on its feet, singing along. Mazwai also performed some of her own hits, including "Zabalaza" and "Thanayi", her collaboration with Masekela. The audience's response to "Stimela" was heartfelt, with people singing from the depth of their hearts.
The festival has grown significantly since its inception in 1997, with Standard Bank reporting an increase in audience from about 2,000 to more than 36,000 over its history. This year's line-up reflected a mixture of international names, including Angélique Kidjo and Kamasi Washington, alongside Thandiswa Mazwai, Manana, and emerging talent. The festival continues to provide a platform for emerging jazz artists.
The 2026 Standard Bank Joy of Jazz festival was a celebration of music, discovery, and live performance. With its eclectic line-up and laid-back atmosphere, the event allowed attendees to explore different genres and discover new artists. The festival's growth and popularity over the years are a testament to its importance in South Africa's jazz landscape.
Key points
- The 2026 Standard Bank Joy of Jazz festival featured a mix of local and international artists, including Angélique Kidjo and Kamasi Washington.
- The festival has grown significantly since its inception in 1997, with an increase in audience from about 2,000 to more than 36,000.
- The event continues to provide a platform for emerging jazz artists, showcasing the diversity and talent of South Africa's music scene.
