Joburg’s most loved and longest-standing jazz event, the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz ended on a high note with star-studded performances by South African and international artists and bands.
The line-up that attracted thousands of revellers and jazz aficionados included celebrated artists such as Sibongile Khumalo, Siphokazi, and Ladysmith Black Mambazo amongst other artists who wrapped up the three-day festival with electric performances that had audiences on their feet throughout the show.
The 22nd instalment of the annual festival, sponsored by the City of Johannesburg took place at the Sandton Conversation Centre from Thursday, 26 to Saturday, 28 September.
One of the world’s most celebrated Jazz vocalists, Sibongile Khumalo took audiences down memory lane with songs such as Breath of Life and Sula Izinyembezi.
Khumalo lauded organisers of the festival for keeping jazz music alive and allowing upcoming artists to showcase their talent.
“It’s every artists’ dream to perform at the Joy of Jazz, one of the biggest jazz festivals in Africa. It’s such a pleasure to see young talented people giving audiences world-class performances,” said Khumalo.
Other artists who set the stage on fire over the three days included Rashaan Patterson from the United States of America, Manu Katche from France, as well as locals, The Soil, Don Laka, and Sipho Mabuse.
On the opening night, the festival honoured South African jazz artist, songwriter and producer Jonas Gwangwa with an exhibition of his work. Gwangwa’s music, music scores, and pictures of him with different struggle icons were displayed at the venue to honour his contribution to the jazz genre.
The Joy of Jazz is South Africa's oldest jazz festival, started by jazz music producer Peter Tladi in 1997.
Written by Takalani Sioga
