OVER 30 WORLD-CLASS ARTISTS FOR THIS YEAR’S CAPE TOWN INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL

CAPE TOWN. – The iconic Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF) is set to make an unforgettable return on April 25 and 26, 2025 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).

Widely celebrated as Africa’s Grandest Gathering, this year’s festival promises an even bigger and more exhilarating experience, featuring over 30 world-class artists and an exclusive world-first musical collaboration that will captivate music lovers across the globe.

Six years ago, the legendary Oliver Mtukudzi was set to headline the festival but died just days before the show.

Instead, the organisers decided to turn the festival into a special Tuku memorial.

“No one will go on (in his) slot, we will dedicate it in his memory. This is such sad news. He has such a special slot in the music of this country, he is irreplaceable,” the organisers said back then.

“He was an incredible musician, We have wanted to do something with him for years and it has taken so long.”

Tuku died on the same day, exactly a year after his great friend, Hugh Masekela, also died.

“Oliver was a hugely popular performer on the CTIJF stage, and enjoyed sold-out performances in the 2002 and 2008, besides featuring in many other performances at the festival over the years.”

This year’s festival coincides with Freedom Day on April 27, making it a fitting celebration of the nation’s hard-fought freedom, which has opened South African music to the international stage and allowed the country to showcase its finest talent.

Since its inception in 2000, the CTIJF has established itself as one of the premier music festivals on the African continent.

Held annually, it transforms Cape Town into a vibrant hub of musical creativity and cultural celebration, drawing thousands of local and international visitors.

The CTIJF isn’t just about music – it’s a significant economic driver for the Western Cape.

According to research conducted by North West University’s Tourism Research in Economics, Environs and Society unit, the 2024 festival generated approximately R119 million in economic activity while creating between 444 and 1,200 jobs in the region.

This includes employment in event management, technical production, security, catering, and hospitality services, reaffirming the festival’s impact on both the cultural and economic landscape of Cape Town.

The 2025 edition is set to raise the bar with several exciting additions:

· A world-class festival collaboration to be unveiled closer to the event.

· A brand-new culinary experience featuring a diverse range of local and international flavours to tantalise festival-goers.

· Exclusive Hospitality Lounges: Luxurious spaces designed for corporate clients and discerning guests to enjoy the festival in style.

· The much-anticipated Free Concert returns on the eve of the festival, allowing locals to experience world-class jazz without cost, reinforcing the festival’s commitment to accessibility and community spirit.

Additionally, the CTIJF Masterclasses will continue to inspire the next generation of artists.

Featuring both local and international musicians, these workshops offer invaluable learning experiences for aspiring talent and jazz enthusiasts alike.

The festival’s unique blend of jazz, soul, funk, blues, and fusion continues to attract both jazz purists and modern music lovers, making it a must-attend event for all.

The first artist announcement will be in February, with ticket sales going live on January 28, 2025, via ticketmaster.co.za. – IOL/H-Metro Reporter