The 2024 Standard Bank Joy of Jazz (SBJOJ) is set for a monumental celebration as it marks its 25th anniversary this year. The premier jazz festival in Africa will take place on September 27th and 28th at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg.
Global Jazz Fusion
This year’s SBJOJ boasts a lineup featuring over 50 world-class musicians from more than 10 countries. The festival promises a truly global experience, showcasing jazz with influences from Africa, Europe, East Asia, and the Americas.
Bonga Sebesho, Group Head of Sponsorships at Standard Bank, highlights the festival’s significance: “The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz has been a cornerstone of our support for the arts for years. This 25th-anniversary celebration promises to be unforgettable.”
Unmissable Performances
The 2024 SBJOJ curators have crafted a program filled with not-to-be-missed musical performances and lifestyle experiences. Jazz giants who previously headlined the festival will share the stage with rising stars.
Grammy Award winner Chris Botti will perform alongside trumpet legends like UK-based producer Matthew Halsall and South Africa’s own Feya Faku. The current Standard Bank Young Artist (SBYA) awardee, trumpeter Darren English, will be featured with virtuoso pianist Kenny Banks Jr. (USA).
Other highlights include:
- The legendary Cuban pianist Chucho Valdés Royal Quartet.
- SBYA alumni and song stylist Sibongile Mngoma with bassist and composer Victor Masondo.
- A special “Japan meets South Africa” collaboration between pianist Keiko Matsui and vocalist Nokukhanya Dlamini on the CONGA STAGE.
- The South Korean-born Sven Rõzier Group featuring Dutch trumpeter Ellister van der Molen on the DIPHALA STAGE.
- A tribute to the late Oliver Mtukudzi on the MBIRA STAGE featuring Samantha Mtukudzi, Maduvha Madima, Yvonne Chaka Chaka, and Mbeu.
- The iconic singer-songwriter Thandiswa Mazwai returning with her new project, Sankofa.
- South African favorites MiCasa, Vusi Nova, Mafikizolo, and Iphupho L’ka Biko.
- The prophetic voices of Bongani Mbandla and Ihhashi Elimhlophe on the LOUNGE STAGE.
A Celebration of Jazz and Culture
Mantwa Chinoamadi, Producer of the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz, expresses her excitement: “We are thrilled to celebrate the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz’s 25th anniversary. The festival not only showcases world-class jazz but also contributes to the economic and cultural development of the city and region.”
This year’s SBJOJ promises to be a landmark event, solidifying its position as Africa’s premier jazz festival and a celebration of music, culture, and community.