BY NELIWE NGUBANE
MALKERNS– The Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival officially unveiled its star-studded 2026 music programme during the launch of the festival’s eighth edition, with celebrated MCs Phila Dlamini and Zanele Tshabalala revealing the highly anticipated line-up.
Held under this year’s festival theme, “A Return to the African Future,” the launch introduced the music programme, themed “The Sound of the Continent,” which brings together some of Africa’s most celebrated artists in a showcase reflecting the continent’s rich musical diversity.
Leading the programme is South African hip-hop heavyweight Nasty C, whose globally recognised sound has earned him international acclaim. Joining him is kwaito pioneer Zola 7, who is set to perform his unmistakable catalogue of township anthems.
Festivalgoers can also look forward to performances by acclaimed trumpeter, composer and vocalist Mandisi Dyantyis, amapiano sensation TMan Xpress, Maskandi legend Shwi Mantombazane and award-winning house duo Liquideep.
The festival will further showcase diverse musical styles through performances by folk-country singer Wandile Mbambeni, vocalist and composer Vuyo Viwe, and soulful artist Thando Zide.
Honouring one of Africa’s greatest musical icons, the Masekela Band will celebrate the enduring legacy of Hugh Masekela. Rock outfit WONDERboom will mark three decades in music, while the Kyle Shepherd Trio will present a tribute to legendary pianist Abdullah Ibrahim.
Also joining the line-up are Johannesburg DJ duo Circles & Squares, Mozambican Marrabenta star Neyma, the Eswatini-Mozambique ensemble ka-Tembe Connexion and Afro-soul singer Maleh.
Eswatini’s music industry will also take centre stage with collaborative performances by Cece & Rina, alongside performances by Sancheziey, Bholoja, Mandisa Mamba, Judah Soul, Emagagu and Oriiginelle, who will perform music from her latest album, Loving This Black Woman.
Festival organisers said additional artists will be announced in the coming weeks, adding to what is expected to be one of Luju’s biggest and most diverse music programmes to date when the festival returns later this year.
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(Courtesy Pic)
