Here, Down South, we’re spoilt for choice. Our local talent is thriving, but what was once a blank spot on the international entertainment calendar is now part of a global movement.
When an artist or group announces their “world tour”, South Africa, and specifically Cape Town, is listed somewhere between Sydney and New York. With 2026 heading for a close, the big productions keep coming.
Here’s a taster of what’s in store for the rest of the year and early 2027.
View this post on Instagram
When Ne-Yo came onto the scene, MTV TRL played ‘So Sick’ on repeat. That was in the early 2000s, when R&B was at its height. Every guy in the club came dressed to the nines in a crisp white shirt, waistcoat and fedora.
He’s had a two-decade career, and he still won’t quit. Luck for his fans. Yet, those concert tickets are selling at a steep price, even for a super fan. I guess it’s a case of “your money or your bond.”
Let’s hope he delivers the goods when taking to the Grand West Arena stage because a mediocre rendition of ‘Closer’ is not it.
Fun fact about Ne-Yo: his stage name comes from Keanu Reeves’ character Neo in The Matrix. His producer thought he could write songs as fast as Neo could read code.
Ne-Yo Live in Cape Town tour details:
SWV’s ‘It’s About Time’ was the first cassette I ever owned. I played that album until some songs were so out of tune that they sounded like Michael Jackson calling from beyond the grave.
During the early 90s, R&B was at its wholesome stage, and most artists sang about falling in love, falling out of love, and falling for another love. The girl group understood the assignment and ran with it.
The same applies to Brian McKnight. His vocal range exceeds that of his peers, with ‘Back at One’ a prime example of his talent. Not only is Brian an exceptional singer, but he’s also easy on the eye.
If ladies love L.L., they adore Brian for his intense gaze and those lips. Oh, those lips.
It’s a triple whammy. All-4-One joins Brian McKnight and SWV on their Ultimate R&B Experience Tour. Because why make it a couple when you can have a throuple?
The R&B group dabbles in pop. Their most memorable track, ‘I Swear,’ rules the First Dance at weddings across the nation. Yep, Jamie Jones, Delious Kennedy, Alfred Nevarez, and Tony Borowiak still have the Midas touch.
Ultimate R&B Experience Tour details:
UK hardstyle DJ Phil Mackintosh is heading to Botanik Social House for a Halloween party for the books.
Phil will headline the annual Halloween masked ball with his electronic dance music mixes. Known for playing high-energy dance tracks, you’d better bring a change of clothes.
With Botanik Social House and three dancefloors setting the mood, the performance has to be off the chains. Fresh off the international festival circuit, Phil brings the hard stuff; you bring the vibes.
Save the Rave Halloween feat. Phil Mackintosh details:
He may be engaged to a Dubai princess, but that hasn’t stopped French Montana from doing what he does best.
The Moroccan-American rapper has delivered hit after hit since debuting ‘Excuse My French’ in 2013. His collaborations are somewhat uncanny, yet they always break the charts.
The 2025 hit ‘No Days Off’ featuring Lara Trump was a massive bop, and his versatility hasn’t gone unnoticed. His most recent collab with D-Block Europe gave us ‘RICO’ and ‘Fully Loaded’.
In December, French will headline the inaugural AfroTrax festival at The Ostrich. Joining him are B.O.B and Cassper Nyovest.
AfroTrax festival details:
Cape Town’s appetite for world-class electronic music has spoken loud and clear. After tickets for Fatboy Slim’s first Mother City performance disappeared in record time, promoters have announced a second Cape Town show. It’s giving ‘90s electronic pop.
The Grammy Award-winning producer, born Norman Cook, will now perform at Cabo Beach on Wednesday, 16 December 2026, a day after his already sold-out show on 15 December.
More info
Our girl Tyla has included South Africa in her A*POP World Tour. Obviously.
Just when we thought she’d take a break, she made the announcement, and Tygas couldn’t be happier. This follows the release of her sophomore album A*POP.
The 14-track project features hit singles including “CHANEL,” “IS IT,” “SHE DID IT AGAIN,” and “IS IT, LOVE.” Presented by Showtime and Anything Goes, the live production will blow concertgoers away. So be prepared to have your mind blown.
Tyla A*POP concert details:
Discover Time Out original video
Â
