Mark your calendars, get your groove on, and brace yourself for a musical celebration like no other! From September 27-28, Joburg is transforming into a jazz paradise, as the 2024 Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Festival takes over the vibrant streets of Sandton. This year marks the 25th edition of South Africa’s premier jazz festival, and it’s bigger and bolder than ever before. With over 50 world-class musicians from more than 10 countries, all performing across five spectacular stages, this year’s event promises an unforgettable two days filled with smooth beats, cool vibes, and the ultimate in jazz fusion.

Why You Can’t Miss It

Whether you’re a hardcore jazz aficionado or just looking to tap your toes to some feel-good tunes, this festival has something for everyone. What makes this year’s event even more special is its 25th-anniversary milestone. For a quarter of a century, the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz has not only been a celebration of music but a celebration of unity, diversity, and creativity through the universal language of jazz. As Bonga Sebesho, Group Head of Sponsorships at Standard Bank, puts it, “The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz has been the harmonious heartbeat of our corporate narrative for several years… This platform reflects our devotion to creativity, inclusivity, growth, and diversity.”

And boy, do they mean it! This year’s lineup is packed with international jazz legends and rising local stars, making it an event that’s sure to hit all the right notes.

The Lineup: Who’s Playing?

With over 50 performances across five stages, it’s tough to choose, but here’s our guide to the must-see acts:

• DINALEDI STAGE:
  On both days, Chris Botti (USA) will be hitting all the right notes with his Grammy-winning trumpet skills. His seamless blend of jazz and pop is the perfect way to kick off your jazz-filled weekend. Also gracing the Dinaledi Stage is the legendary Feya Faku (SA), whose trumpet mastery will make your soul soar, and the Chucho Valdés Royal Quartet (CUBA/USA), delivering a Cuban jazz experience that you won’t soon forget. And don’t miss Matthew Halsall (UK), bringing his hypnotic, soulful jazz to Joburg.
• DIPHALA STAGE:
  If you’re a fan of deep, soulful jazz vocals, Lizz Wright (USA), performing with the gifted Brenda Mtambo (SA), is a match made in jazz heaven. Their collaboration will sweep you off your feet. Plus, Sphe Mdlalose (SA) and Jessica Pina (Portugal) are set to deliver unforgettable performances that mix traditional jazz with fresh, contemporary sounds.
• CONGA STAGE:
  Fancy some international flavour? On the Conga Stage, catch Keiko Matsui (Japan) with a special appearance by Nokukhanya Dlamini (SA), blending East and South African jazz styles in a unique cross-cultural musical dialogue. Don’t forget to catch the captivating performance by the queen of Malian song, Fatoumata Diawara, who’s bringing her West African flair to the fest.

• MBIRA STAGE:
  The Mbira Stage will have a special treat for fans of legendary African music with a tribute to Oliver Mtukudzi. This tribute, featuring icons like Yvonne Chaka Chaka (SA) and Mbeu (Zim), will have you reliving the sounds of one of Africa’s greatest music legends. Plus, Thandiswa Mazwai (SA), with her new project Sankofa, is sure to make waves with her powerful voice and revolutionary sound.
• LOUNGE STAGE:
  For those looking for something a bit more experimental, the Lounge Stage will feature DJ Kenzhero, Nothemba Madumo, and Tha Muzik, who will present a genre-bending experience that fuses jazz with electronic music, a perfect way to wind down or start your night.

Tips for Jazzing It Up at SBJOJ

• Get There Early

Trust us, you don’t want to miss a second of the action. Arrive early, grab a drink and make your way to the Sandton Convention Centre to soak up the pre-festival buzz. With so many performances happening across multiple stages, having a game plan is key.

• What to Wear

It’s Joburg in spring, so dress light but layer up—especially for those cooler evening sets. Think casual-chic: comfy shoes for walking between stages and something stylish enough for the post-show mingling.

• Where to Stay

If you’re looking to stay close to the action, Sandton Central is the place to be. The Hotel Sky and Sandton Towers are both luxe, convenient options that put you right in the heart of the action. You’ll be within walking distance of the festival, plus all the best restaurants and bars for your post-jazz meals.

• Grab a Bite

Need to fuel up between sets? Head over to Saint Restaurant for a chic Italian-inspired meal or swing by La Parada for some Sanish tapas. For something sweet, grab an ice cream from Cappino—it’s the perfect sugar hit to keep you going through the night!

• Get Your Tickets

If you haven’t gotten your tickets yet, now’s the time! A 1-day pass will set you back R1050, but if you’re really looking to soak up the full experience, grab the 2-day pass for R1950. And if you’re a Standard Bank cardholder, you can get up to 25% off! Find out more here.

Ready to Jazz?

The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Festival is the perfect way to welcome spring, celebrate Joburg’s vibrant culture, and bask in the finest sounds from around the world. Whether you’re coming for the legends, the local rising stars, or simply the vibe, there’s no better way to jazz up your life this September.

So, grab your tickets, pack your dancing shoes, and get ready to immerse yourself in the smooth sounds and electric energy of the 25th Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Festival—a celebration that promises to be nothing short of magical!

See you there, Joburg!