19 September 2026 · Submitted to CREATIVE KONG and checked against the linked reporting sources below.
The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz returns on 25 and 26 September for its 27th year at the Sandton Convention Centre. More than 50 musicians from over 10 countries will play across four stages: Dinaledi, Diphala, Conga and Mbira.
The international headliners include Angélique Kidjo and Kamasi Washington. Washington is scheduled to perform at the festival for the first time. Producer Mantwa Chinoamadi has framed first-time bookings such as Washington and Floetry as the festival’s way of keeping its platform fresh.
The local programme leans on memory. Thandiswa Mazwai will honour Hugh Masekela and Khaya Mahlangu will pay tribute to Kippie Moeketsi. Standard Bank Young Artist Award winners Gabi Motuba and Manana will also present new work. Read together, the tributes and the newcomers suggest a festival that treats jazz as a conversation between generations.
The Diphala stage puts women’s voices and leadership up front. Its standout concept, “4 Bass Lines”, brings together bassists AusTebza, Rochelle Rautenbach, Chantal Willie-Petersen and Orlanda Da Conceição. Chinoamadi describes the project as women taking up space as architects of the sound rather than as supporting acts.
The festival also reaches beyond the stage. Its Jazzy Joburg Market supports more than 25 small businesses each year. For a two-day festival, that is a reminder that a line-up is also a local economy.
