2026 Line Up

Widely known as the "Gqom King," DJ Lag (born Lwazi Asanda Gwala) is a pioneering South African DJ, producer, and cultural innovator credited with shaping and internationalizing Gqom, the powerful and percussive electronic music genre that emerged from Durban. His most high-profile international recognition came when he was tapped to co-produce "My Power" for Beyoncé's Grammy-nominated album The Lion King: The Gift (2019) — a track featuring Beyoncé, Busiswa, Yemi Alade, Tierra Whack, and Moonchild Sanelly, which was subsequently included on Beyoncé's critically acclaimed Black Is King visual album.

Muhimpundu Vania, known by her stage name Vania Ice, is a Burundian artist making her mark with an innovative approach to Afro Fusion. A reckoned force in Burundian pop-music, she is blending African rhythms with contemporary sounds. Vania Ice’s music captivates a diverse audience, showcasing her versatility and deep connection to her cultural roots. With a vision to rise as a global ambassador of Burundian music, Vania Ice is committed to pushing boundaries and elevating Afro Fusion on the international stage. Her artistry and drive position her as a powerful force in shaping the future of African music, and she is determined to create a lasting legacy in the industry.

Midimu Collective is a pioneering Tanzanian DJ collective redefining the country’s electronic music landscape through the vibrant sounds of Afro-House and contemporary House Music. The name “Midimu” draws inspiration from the Makonde Tribe of East Africa, where Midimu refers to a traditional coming-of-age ceremony. With their motto "Ancestors Meet the Bassline" Midimu fuses two worlds that were never meant to be separate. From the Makonde people come the masked dancers and coming-of-age ceremonies — rhythm as ritual, movement as memory. From MIDI comes the language of the machines: the protocol that lets synths, drum computers and minds speak as one. Midimu Collective is the space between the carved mask and the modular rack — raw African heritage meeting cutting-edge electronic culture on a single dance floor.

From a young age, Baba Kash's heart has been captivated by the art of singing, igniting his musical journey in 2003 with a deep passion for Bongo Flava music. In 2016, Baba Kash ventured into the dynamic world of Singeli music, quickly gaining recognition for his unique sound. Despite this success, he dreamed of forming his own band, and in 2022, that dream became a reality.

Baba Kash blends the highly energetic Mchiriku rhythms into his music, crafting a unique Swahili sound that vividly captures the essence of street life. His high-energy performances, backed by a talented live band and dynamic Singeli dancers, have earned him both local and international recognition. Baba Kash has performed on various local and international stages, including Sauti za Busara 2025, Marafiki Music Festival, Ongala Music Festival, Singeli Fest, and Jumatano Groove.

Originating from Pemba Island, Brain Boy’s sound is inspired by traditional Taarab musicians like Makame Faki and Mohammed Issa Matona. In hearing his natural deep voice, he has been nick-named ‘Makame Faki Jr’ - the King of Kidumbaki, being blessed with the voice of the late master singer. Brain Boy creates a fusion of traditional Taarab and Kidumbaki with a new wave of Zanzibarian taped Zenji Flavor. In his music, topics such as love, relationships and social development take center stage, reflecting on the state of youth in Zanzibar in the 21st century.

RODY JOH is an Afro House DJ and producer from Tanzania, East Africa, recognized for his immersive sound that blends deep rhythms, melodic textures, tribal percussion, and spiritual energy. With a unique approach to electronic music, he creates powerful sonic journeys.

Ngoma World is a dynamic cultural movement dedicated to bringing the spirit and soul of Zanzibar to global audiences through immersive performances and interactive artistic experiences. Rooted in African heritage yet driven by contemporary creativity, the group has established a distinctive performance style that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation — transforming rhythm into ritual and performance into community.

Sauti Marley is a talented Tanzanian singer, guitarist, songwriter, and music educator whose artistry blends Afro Fusion with socially conscious storytelling. Based in Bagamoyo, he has steadily built a reputation for creating music that combines rich African rhythms and soulful melodies.