Fête de la Musique Joburg adds more artists to 2022 line-up

The 22 confirmed acts include Latoya Makhene, Bonga Kwana, Farai Matake, LNT Sound, 3 HEADS, NotBenjamin, DJ Teedo Love, Clement Measuretutti, Adrian Kapiten, Vinnie Mak, Future Radio, Black Heidi, Jst Sako, Nomisupasta, Kings of Bantu Hymns, iPhupho L'Ka Biko, BONJ, Kommanda Obbs, The Isomers, Kazi Ya Sanaa, Androgenius and Bongani. They join headliners Brenda Mtambo, Urban Village, BCUC and Azah.

The announcement follows an open call that saw about 300 artists apply for a chance to perform at the 11th edition of the event.

“We are excited to have picked our largest group yet this year,” French Institute of South Africa (IFAS) cultural attaché and deputy director Sophie Boulé said. “The process was tough because there was such a diverse range of applications to choose from – some daring, some emotional, some loud, some soulful, but all extremely passionate.

“We were blown away by the dynamic and surprising entries that really pushed the envelope. Every year, the jury tries to select broadly across genres to create a melting pot of musical sounds. Luckily this year we were able to choose more acts, grow the festival and give more artists the opportunity to shine. It has been 40 years since the festival began in France, so it is a great occasion for a bigger celebration.”

IFAS says the festival is not only designed to showcase fresh talent but also to serve as an incubator and create long-term opportunities for the new generation of performers. This year, the winning applicants will be invited to attend a workshop before the festival, which will be facilitated by music production company Bassline and French label NØ FØRMAT, at AMPD Studios.

Fête de la Musique was founded by former French minister of arts and culture Jack Lang and French composer and music journalist Maurice Fleuret in 1982. The festival is now celebrated in more than 120 countries around the world. In South Africa, the event is celebrated with a full day of free family friendly concerts offering a great opportunity and platform to upcoming bands. The festival allows everyone to discover new musical trends from traditional music to hip hop, techno and world music.

For more information, visit the official website.

Watch Fête de la Musique Joburg 2021 below: