OVER sixty top acts from around the world are set to captivate a diverse audience at the annual Standard Bank Joy of Jazz.
The festival promises three days of world-class performances across four stages, from September 26 to 28, 2025
As part of its ongoing commitment to celebrating women in music, the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz has announced the first few remarkable female artists set to perform at the 26th edition of the festival.
Getting ready to thrill on the Dinaledi Stage is Siya Makuzeni, a multi-talented South African trombone player and vocalist. Makuzeni is also the winner of the 2016 Standard Bank Young Artist Award for Jazz. Joining her on the Dinaledi Stage is fellow Standard Bank Young Artist for Jazz (2018), Thandi Ntuli, whose exceptional vocal abilities and masterful piano playing have drawn comparisons to the legendary Miriam Makeba.
Also gracing the Dinaledi Stage is esperanza spalding, the Grammy-winning U.S. singer and bassist.
A Berklee College of Music graduate and one of its youngest instructors, spalding made history as the first jazz musician to win the Best New Artist Grammy in 2011. Her mesmerizing fusion of jazz promises to leave festival-goers yearning for more.
On the Conga Stage, audiences will experience the soul-stirring performances of Gabi Motuba, a spirited and effortless jazz vocalist whose music deeply resonates with the moment and the audience.
Meanwhile, on the Mbira Stage, Jose James (U.S.) will present his tribute to Erykah Badu with his “Jose Sings Badu” showcase. James, known for his tributes to legendary artists such as Billie Holiday and Bill Withers, brings his signature jazz-soul fusion to honor the iconic R&B music figure.
“Honoring exceptional women musicians and promoting their representation has always been a key priority for us. We have celebrated greats such as the late Sibongile Khumalo and Gloria Bosman, and we continue to highlight outstanding female talent in global music. As we celebrate the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz’s 26th anniversary, we remain committed to delivering a memorable experience for jazz lovers,” said Mantwa Chinoamadi, Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Producer.
Bonga Sebesho, Group Head of Sponsorships at Standard Bank, added: “As a champion of the arts, Standard Bank is committed to making world-class jazz more accessible. We are thrilled with the 2025 edition of the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz, a vibrant showcase that celebrates the rich diversity of voices from both local and international talent.
This festival is a powerful platform for cultural exchange and artistic excellence, inclusive, cosmopolitan gathering that unites the finest talent in jazz with culturally diverse lifestyle enthusiasts.
Standard Bank Joy of Jazz tickets are now available on Ticketmaster, starting from R1350.
Image Sphiwe Mhlambi (Dinaledi Stage welcomes Siya Makuzeni, a multi-talented South African trombone player and vocalist, for the 2025 JoJ in September).
