Johannesburg came alive with the sound of jazz on Friday evening as the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz 2026 got underway at the Sandton Convention Centre, bringing together some of SA's finest jazz musicians and international performers across the Dinaledi, Diphala, Conga and Mbira stages.
The opening night of the festival's 27th anniversary celebration delivered a rich mix of traditional African sounds, contemporary jazz, marabi, big-band arrangements and powerful tributes to the musicians who have shaped South Africa's jazz heritage.
McCoy Mrubata sets the tone on the Dinaledi Stage
One of the major highlights of the evening was the performance by acclaimed South African saxophonist McCoy Mrubata, who opened the Dinaledi Stage with Children on the Frontline.
His performance provided a fitting opening to the festival's flagship stage, showcasing the depth and enduring appeal of South African jazz. His appearance was followed by Judith Sephuma, before the audience was treated to Reflections of Mzansi Big Band, arranged by father and son duo Themba and Afrika Mkhize.
The Diphala Stage offered another strong programme, beginning with Yonela Mnana and Benedikt Reising, whose Echoes of Marabi featured the Soultree Sisters.
The audience was then treated to a performance by The Polyrhythmic Ensemble, featuring Reza Khota, Vuma Levin, Gontse Makhene and Sean Sanby. Angélique Kidjo and Tank and the Bangas completed the stage's Friday-night programme, ensuring that rhythm and African-rooted sounds remained central to the festival experience.
Busi Mhlongo tribute becomes a special moment at Mbira
A particularly emotional and memorable moment unfolded at the Mbira Stage, where the festival paid tribute to the late South African music icon Busi Mhlongo.
The stage opened with Nomfusi, followed by Anaïs Rosso, Internet Athi and Floetry, before the evening culminated in The Busi Mhlongo Tribute, featuring BuhlebenDalo, Zawadi Yamungu and Xolisa Dlamini.
The tribute became a celebration of Mhlongo's enduring musical legacy, with jazz lovers singing along and responding warmly to familiar songs and sounds associated with the celebrated musician.
MMC for Community Development Cllr Thapelo Amad said the festival demonstrates the important role that music and culture continue to play in bringing people together and positioning Johannesburg as a destination for major cultural experiences.
“Joy of Jazz is more than a music festival; it is a celebration of our heritage, our creativity and the diversity that makes Johannesburg a global city. The performances we have witnessed tonight demonstrate the power of music to bring generations and communities together. As the City, we are proud to support platforms that showcase African talent, celebrate our musical legends and contribute to the vibrancy of Johannesburg's cultural landscape," said MMC Amad
The first night of Joy of Jazz 2026 set the stage for a weekend of musical discovery, with audiences moving between four stages to experience established icons, emerging artists, international acts and tributes celebrating the rich legacy of African jazz.
Written by Luyanda Lunika
26/09/2026
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