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Standard Bank Joy of Jazz 2025 – Feel the Jazz, Everywhere!
26 September 2025 @ 6:30 pm – 29 September 2025 @ 12:00 am
The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz (SBJOJ) 2025 is set to make history as it expands to three full days of exhilarating performances, taking place from 26–28 September 2025 at the Sandton International Convention Centre. Now in its 26th edition, Africa’s premier jazz festival promises to deliver an unforgettable experience, blending world-renowned international stars with South Africa’s finest talent.
A Festival Like No Other
With over 60 artists from 15 countries across 3 continents, 4 dynamic stages, and 3 electrifying days, the Joy of Jazz is cementing its reputation as the ultimate celebration of jazz on the continent. From intimate sets to grand ensemble spectacles, the festival will showcase the diverse soundscape of jazz while honoring its African roots.
Since its inception in 1997, the SBJOJ has become a cultural juggernaut, drawing tens of thousands of fans each year. In 2024 alone, more than 36,000 jazz lovers gathered to celebrate the music, making it one of the biggest jazz festivals on the continent.
Star-Studded Line-Up
This year’s line-up balances jazz legends, rising stars, and daring collaborations, across the four festival stages – Dinaledi, Conga, Diphala, and Mbira.
Headliners
- Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra (USA) – bringing their unmatched artistry to Joburg.
- Esperanza Spalding (USA) – multi-GRAMMY-winning bassist and vocalist.
- José James (USA) – reimagining the work of Erykah Badu in José James Sings Badu.
- Oumou Sangaré (Mali) – the legendary voice of Wassoulou music.
South African Powerhouses
- Thandi Ntuli, Nomfundo Xaluva, Steve Dyer, Amanda Black, Siya Makuzeni Big Band, Kyle Shepherd Trio, Gabi Motuba, Tresor, Elaine, Berita, and many more.
Global Collaborations
From the Hakan Basar Trio (Turkey) to the Najponk Trio (Czech Republic), Simon Denizart (Canada), and the Ababhemu Quartet (SA/Sweden/Norway), the festival offers a global soundscape rooted in jazz’s spirit of collaboration.
3 Days. 4 Stages. Over 50 Acts.
- Dinaledi Stage – Home of jazz greats and strong female voices.
- Conga Stage – A celebration of Pan-African and global fusion.
- Diphala Stage – Pure straight-ahead jazz excellence.
- Mbira Stage – Storytelling, singalong, and soulful artistry.
Ticket Information
- Day Pass: R1 350
- 2-Day Pass: R2 250
- Weekend Pass (3 Days): R3 250
Standard Bank cardholders enjoy up to 15% discount (limited to 2 tickets per person, subject to availability).
A Legacy of Excellence
The Joy of Jazz continues to uphold its tradition of uniting cultures through music.
“Adding Wynton Marsalis to the 2025 programme firms up the straight-ahead jazz element in our curatorial vision. By inviting him, we signal our commitment to the shared cultural and democratic values that connect South Africa and the United States.”
As Mantwa Chinoamadi, CEO of T-Musicman, notes:
For over 40 years, Standard Bank has supported the arts, fostering cultural exchange and ensuring platforms like Joy of Jazz continue to thrive.
- Social Media:
- Twitter: @joyofjazz
- Instagram: @joyofjazz_
- Facebook: Standard Bank Joy of Jazz
- Hashtag: #SBJOJ2025
✨ The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz 2025 isn’t just a festival – it’s a celebration of heritage, creativity, and the unifying power of music. Get ready to Feel the Jazz. Everywhere!
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