2025 ARTIST LINEUP

THE TALENT

THE CTIJF WELCOMES

BLACK COFFEE AND NDUDUZO MAKHATHINI
IN COLLABORATION

World renowned artists, Black Coffee and Nduduzo Makhathini have a deep-rooted background in Jazz that date back to their studies at Technikon Natal, in Durban and cement their shared understanding and passion for music.

Their initial collaboration in 2018 culminated to Black Coffee’s release entitled Music is King where Makhathini features on ‘Muye’ amongst other songs. As the title of this EP suggests, the project aimed at blurring genre compartments while bringing various musical worlds together into one coherent experience. This is the core connection between the two artists — creating sounds that transcend genre politics all while taking things to the highest levels of sonic aesthetic and excellence.

Since these initial encounters and between their busy touring schedules, the two international Award-Winning artists have been working on lots of music together, some released and others not. The coming show at the Cape Town International Jazz Festival will be the inaugural concert where the duet puts together a set that will propel audiences through various repertoires from both incredible talents, ranging from known classics to newly created bodies of work.

This particular presentation will also feature an orchestra, horns, percussion and some very special guests singing some of the wellknown pieces from the duet.

Thandiswa Mazwai

A cultural icon and one of South Africa’s most powerful voices, Thandiswa Mazwai embodies the soul of a nation. Seamlessly weaving Xhosa heritage with jazz, soul, and Afro-futurism, her performances are nothing short of transformative—charged with emotion, storytelling, and an undeniable stage presence. Expect a performance that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.

Kyle Shepherd Trio

Visionary pianist and composer Kyle Shepherd is a defining force in South African jazz. Leading the Kyle Shepherd Trio, he channels the rich legacy of Cape jazz while fearlessly pushing its boundaries. His music is intricate yet deeply felt, blending tradition with innovation in a way that captivates and challenges the listener. This is jazz at its most dynamic—alive with rhythm, movement, and raw emotion.

Benjamin Jeptha ft. Kujenga

Bassist, composer, and sonic explorer Benjamin Jeptha stands at the forefront of contemporary jazz, effortlessly fusing African rhythms with modern jazz and hip-hop. Joined by the deeply evocative Kujenga, this performance will be a masterclass in groove, harmony, and improvisation—an immersive experience that speaks to both heart and intellect.

Ari Lennox

A voice that drips with soul and raw emotion, Ari Lennox is redefining contemporary R&B with her rich, honeyed vocals and deeply personal storytelling. Effortlessly blending jazz, soul, and modern groove, her performances are intimate yet electrifying—an invitation into a world where vulnerability meets power.

Linda Sikhakhane

With an unmistakable tone and a deep spiritual connection to his craft, saxophonist Linda Sikhakhane is a visionary in modern jazz. His music is meditative yet urgent, rich in African heritage yet strikingly contemporary. Each note he plays tells a story, of tradition, of evolution, of a sound that is always searching for new horizons.

Nomfundo Xaluva

Refined, commanding, and deeply expressive, Nomfundo Xaluva stands at the intersection of jazz and storytelling. With a voice that carries both warmth and conviction, she masterfully weaves intricate melodies with profound narratives, bringing to life a performance that is both elegant and deeply moving.

Victor Masondo Quartet ft. Thembi & Bheki Khoza

When legendary bassist Victor Masondo assembles a quartet, expect nothing less than magic. With the unmistakable artistry of guitarist Bheki Khoza and the soul-stirring vocals of Thembi, this collaboration is a masterclass in musical synergy, where deep-rooted African jazz traditions meet fearless improvisation and boundless expression.

Donvino Prins, Cameron Ward, Jonathan Rubain & Kyle Shepherd

A powerhouse collective of South Africa’s most electrifying musicians, this All-Star Group is a celebration of virtuosity, groove, and pure musical joy. Saxophonist Donvino Prins, guitarist Cameron Ward, bassist Jonathan Rubain, and pianist Kyle Shepherd each bring their unique mastery to the stage, creating a sonic experience that is as deeply rooted as it is boundary-pushing. This is jazz at its most exhilarating.

Lira

A voice that resonates with grace, strength, and pure soul, Lira is a true icon of Afro-soul and jazz. Effortlessly blending rich, velvety vocals with uplifting melodies, she crafts performances that are both intimate and transcendent. Her music carries wisdom, passion, and a timeless elegance—an experience that stays with you long after the final note.

Plurism

Swiss drummer Dominic Egli’s Plurism is a boundary-pushing jazz ensemble blending African and European influences. Their latest project, Umhlangano, celebrates unity with a powerhouse lineup: Mthunzi Mvubu (alto sax), Sisonke Xonti (tenor sax), Feya Faku (trumpet), Xavier Ruegg (upright bass), and Egli himself on drums. Rooted yet expansive, their sound promises a transformative sonic journey.

Bombay Lights

A sonic journey through soul,indian classiscal roots, jazz, and modern textures, Bombay Lights creates music that is both hypnotic and deeply emotive. Their sound pulses with dreamy melodies, intricate rhythms, and an unmistakable cinematic feel, offering a performance that is as immersive as it is unforgettable.

The Ploemies

Vibrant, rebellious, and unfiltered, The Ploemies bring an electrifying energy to the stage. Their music is a bold fusion of jazz, rock, and alternative sounds, filled with sharp improvisation and an unmistakable edge. Expect a performance that is unpredictable, high-octane, and impossible to ignore.

Malcolm Jiyane

Trombonist, composer, and visionary, Malcolm Jiyane crafts music that is raw, deeply spiritual, and emotionally charged. Drawing from South Africa’s rich jazz heritage while shaping something entirely his own, his performances are a profound expression of history, identity, and pure creative fire.

Bongeziwe Mabandla

A modern-day poet with a voice that stirs the soul, Bongeziwe Mabandla fuses folk, Xhosa rhythms, and electronic elements into something truly transcendent. His music is delicate yet powerful, carrying an emotional depth that lingers long after the last chord. A live performance that promises both intimacy and intensity.

iPhupho L’ka Biko

More than a band, iPhupho L’ka Biko is a movement, one that channels jazz as a revolutionary force. Blending traditional African music with free-flowing improvisation, their performances are spiritual, thought-provoking, and charged with raw emotion. This is jazz as a call to action, as a deep ancestral echo, as an experience you’ll never forget.

Masego

Jamaican-American artist Masego is a musical innovator, renowned for his unique “TrapHouseJazz” style, a fusion of jazz, R&B, and hip-hop. Rising to prominence with his 2017 hit “Tadow,” Masego has continued to captivate audiences with projects like his self-titled 2023 album. His live performances are immersive experiences, showcasing his mastery as a multi-instrumentalist and his charismatic stage presence. Set to perform on April 25, 2025, at the Cape Town International Jazz Festival, Masego’s return promises an unforgettable show.

Incognito

British acid jazz pioneers Incognito have been at the forefront of the genre since 1979, seamlessly blending jazz, funk, and soul. Known for timeless hits like “Still a Friend of Mine” and their rendition of Stevie Wonder’s “Don’t You Worry ‘Bout a Thing,” their dynamic performances transcend generations. Returning to the Cape Town International Jazz Festival in 2025, Incognito is set to deliver an electrifying set that reaffirms their legendary status.

Muneeb Hermans

Cape Town-born trumpeter and composer Muneeb Hermans has rapidly emerged as one of South Africa’s premier jazz talents. Rooted in the Cape Minstrel tradition and a University of Cape Town graduate, Hermans has graced international stages, including London’s EFG Jazz Festival and Carnegie Hall. His debut album, “One for HP,” showcases his exquisite artistry. Performing at the Cape Town International Jazz Festival in 2025, Hermans represents the vibrant future of South African jazz.

Kelvin Momo

South African DJ and producer Kelvin Momo, born Thato Ledwaba, has become a pivotal figure in the amapiano scene. His fifth studio album, Sewe, released on August 9, 2024, achieved over 1.328 million streams on its first day and surpassed 15 million streams within a month. Sewe showcases Momo’s signature blend of smooth, jazzy vibes with amapiano rhythms, solidifying his reputation as a trailblazer in the genre.

Igor Butman

Renowned Russian saxophonist and bandleader Igor Butman stands as a towering figure in the jazz world. As the leader of the Moscow Jazz Orchestra, Butman has collaborated with international jazz luminaries, bringing Russian jazz to global prominence. His performances are celebrated for their technical brilliance and emotive depth, offering audiences a masterclass in contemporary jazz artistry.

The Brother Moves On

South African ensemble The Brother Moves On defies musical categorization, seamlessly blending jazz, rock, and indigenous sounds to craft a unique auditory experience. Their 2022 album, $/He Who Feeds You…Owns You, received critical acclaim for its innovative approach and socio-political commentary. Known for their dynamic performances and thought-provoking narratives, The Brother Moves On continues to push the boundaries of South African music.

TKZEE

South Africa’s iconic kwaito group TKZEE, comprising Kabelo “Bouga” Mabalane, Zwai Bala, and the late Tokollo “Magesh” Tshabalala, continues to influence the music scene. Their classics like “Shibobo” and “Dlala Mapantsula” remain timeless. At the Cape Town International Jazz Festival 2025, their performance will honor Magesh’s legacy, offering fans a chance to relive the energy that defined a generation.

Kandace Springs

American jazz and R&B vocalist Kandace Springs is renowned for her velvety voice and exceptional piano skills. Her 2024 album, Run Your Race, is a heartfelt tribute to her late father, Scat Springs. The album features collaborations with industry talents and showcases her evolution as an artist. At CTIJF 2025, Springs will deliver an intimate performance, blending jazz, soul, and personal storytelling.

Ritmo

Ritmo, a dynamic ensemble of Cape Town’s finest musicians, fuses salsa, bossa nova, marrabenta, samba, jazz, and funk. Their high-energy performances are a celebration of diverse musical influences, promising festival-goers an unforgettable experience at CTIJF 2025.

Thembi Dunjana

Cape Town-based pianist and singer Thembi Dunjana captivates audiences with her expressive playing and rich compositions, reflecting her deep connection to her roots. A two-time Mzansi Jazz Award winner, Dunjana’s performance at CTIJF 2025 is a testament to her status as a leading figure in South Africa’s jazz scene.

Melorie Jane

Melorie Jane, a rising star in South Africa’s music scene, combines soulful vocals with heartfelt lyrics. Her performances, including recent shows at The Blue Room and Amazink, have garnered critical acclaim. At CTIJF 2025, Melorie Jane is set to showcase her unique sound, blending contemporary and traditional elements to resonate with a diverse audience.

Gotts Street Park

Leeds-based trio Gotts Street Park—comprising Josh Crocker (bass, production), Tom Henry (keys), and Joe Harris (guitar)—crafts soulful, cinematic grooves that bridge vintage analog warmth with contemporary R&B aesthetics. Having collaborated with artists like Kali Uchis, Celeste, and Mabel, their music evokes the spirit of classic studio ensembles while pushing modern boundaries. Their live performances are intimate yet expansive, offering a fresh take on soul-infused jazz.

Nubya Garcia

British saxophonist and composer Nubya Garcia continues to redefine contemporary jazz with her 2024 album, Odyssey. This ambitious project blends jazz, classical, R&B, and dub, featuring collaborations with Esperanza Spalding, Georgia Anne Muldrow, and Richie. Garcia’s orchestral arrangements and genre-defying compositions have garnered critical acclaim, solidifying her status as a leading voice in modern jazz.

Kdollahz

Emerging from South Africa’s vibrant music scene, Kdollahz is a dynamic artist blending hip-hop, jazz, and electronic elements. His innovative approach and compelling performances have positioned him as a rising star, pushing the boundaries of genre and expression.

Ramon Alexander Trio ft. Leslie Kleinsmith

Cape Jazz pianist Ramon Alexander leads his trio with a deep reverence for South African musical traditions. Collaborating with veteran vocalist Leslie Kleinsmith, their performances are a heartfelt fusion of jazz improvisation and soulful storytelling. Alexander’s compositions, rooted in Cape Town’s rich cultural tapestry, resonate with authenticity and passion.

DJ Masoodah

Cape Town’s own DJ Masoodah is renowned for her eclectic sets that traverse house, jazz, and Afrobeat. Her deep musical knowledge and seamless mixing create immersive experiences that captivate diverse audiences, making her a standout figure in South Africa’s DJ culture.

Ivan Mazuze

Mozambican-born saxophonist and composer Ivan Mazuze is a visionary in contemporary world jazz, seamlessly blending African traditions with modern improvisation. Now based in Norway, Mazuze’s 2024 album, Penuka, delves into the rich tapestry of Arab and Indian influences on African music, reflecting centuries of cultural exchange. Collaborating with international artists, he crafts a soundscape that’s both globally resonant and deeply rooted. At CTIJF 2025, Mazuze promises a transcendent performance that bridges continents and traditions.