Our Experience at DStv Delicious Festival Powered by Lottostar
This past weekend, thousands of festivalgoers braved the cold to attend the much-anticipated DStv Delicious International Food and Music Festival at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit. However, the event got off to a rocky start when news broke that headliner Janet Jackson had cancelled her performance on Saturday following the sudden passing of her brother Tito Jackson. This left many attendees disappointed, with some lamenting the absence of ticket refunds.
Festival organisers found themselves in a tight spot but swiftly replaced Janet Jackson with US R&B star Jason Derulo and hip-hop legend Busta Rhymes. Judging by the buzz on social media, despite the unexpected changes and record-low temperatures, the festival was still a rousing success.
While our experience at the event was exclusively on Day 2, it was not without its challenges. Getting into the venue proved more cumbersome than expected, with long process and tight security, but the thoroughness was understandable given the size and scale of the festival. Once inside, the magic of the event quickly dispelled any frustrations.
Jill Scott headlined the final day of the festival, delivering a powerhouse performance that left the crowd mesmerised. Her soulful voice echoed through the chilly air, as she performed hits like Gimme, Whatever, He Loves Me, and her timeless anthem Golden. The audience swayed and sang along passionately, creating an unforgettable atmosphere of unity and nostalgia.
“When you sing back, Joburg, it’s so beautiful and overwhelmingly wonderful. Thank you DStv Delicious Festival for having us. Thank you Joburg for loving me the way you do. My heart soars.”
Scott, moved by the reception, later took to Instagram to express her gratitude, saying,
South African talent shone brightly throughout the day. Jesse Clegg, son of the late Johnny Clegg, paid a heartfelt tribute to his father, while other local legends including Lira, Yvonne Chaka Chaka, and Loyiso Bala delivered stunning performances. Bala’s tribute to Ray Phiri was particularly poignant, with the crowd moved by the powerful homage.
The festival also paid tribute to other iconic figures in South Africa’s musical history. Yvonne Chaka Chaka honoured Miriam Makeba, while Zolani Mahola channelled the spirit of Brenda Fassie. Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse and Selema Writes paid tribute to Hugh Masekela, and Ayanda Khumalo remembered her late mother, Sibongile Khumalo, in a touching performance.
Despite the chilly weather and logistical hurdles, the DStv Delicious Festival was a true celebration of music, culture, and the power of creative freedom in South Africa. As the festival marked 30 years of South African democracy, it was a fitting tribute to the legacy of local and international musical icons who have shaped the industry.
With its electrifying performances, nostalgic tributes, and culinary delights, the festival lived up to its name, proving once again why it remains a highlight on South Africa’s cultural calendar.
