The Cape Town International Jazz Festival returns with a bold and diverse line-up for 2025, headlined by global music sensation Black Coffee. The Grammy Award-winning DJ and producer will bring his internationally celebrated fusion of house beats and Afro rhythms to a local stage, marking a significant milestone for the event and reinforcing Cape Town’s reputation as Africa’s live music capital.
Scheduled for 26 and 27 April at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), the festival promises a dynamic mix of sounds that includes international legends and local jazz heroes. Other notable acts include American saxophonist David Sanborn and celebrated South African guitarist Jonathan Butler. This eclectic mix of genres — from jazz and soul to electronic and Afrobeat — reflects the festival's commitment to musical inclusivity and innovation.
Black Coffee’s appearance signals a smart shift toward cross-generational appeal, likely drawing a younger, more diverse audience. His set is expected to blend deep house with live instrumentation, offering a unique jazz-inspired club experience. However, purists might argue that the festival’s jazz roots risk dilution amid such mainstream acts. That said, this evolution may be necessary to keep the event relevant in a rapidly changing music industry.
While the festival is known for its electric atmosphere and vibrant crowd, ticket prices may be a barrier for some music lovers. Still, the festival often invests in community outreach and music development programmes, balancing commercial appeal with social impact.
With over two decades of history, the Cape Town International Jazz Festival remains a jewel in South Africa’s cultural calendar — and with Black Coffee at the helm this year, it’s poised to be a groundbreaking celebration.