The Road to Amapiano is set to bring together a stellar line-up of performers in honour of 30 years of the rich legacy and global influence of South African music on September 7 at the iconic Constitution Hill Old Fort in Johannesburg.
The festival is not just a celebration of music; it’s a celebration of the cultural heritage and the limitless potential of South African creativity that has also gained recognition on global stages.
Attendees will be taken on an unforgettable journey through three decades of South African music, highlighting the evolution and innovation of genres, such as Kwaito, Afro-house, Gqom, Afrotech, and Amapiano, through DJ and live performances.
Some of the artists billed to perform include Oskido, Thebe, Glen Lewis, Ready D, Nasty C, Tamara Dey, Moonchild Sanelly, Thebe, Boom Shaka, Scott Maphuma, MFR Soul, Jab a Jaw, Just Themba, Thakzin, Jimm & Tonic, Aero Manyelo, and Mellow & Sleazy.
The festival, which is a partnership between The Arts and Culture Trust (ACT) and Soda World AfroTech supported by Nedbank, uniquely combines virtual and physical audiences through cutting-edge mixed-reality technology.
The festival-goers can enjoy an immersive experience in VR, either live at the venue or from anywhere, with the option to bring their own VR set or rent one at the event, or log into the virtual space via Spatial.io or VRChat.
Michael Balkind, the founder of Soda World, asserts the festival is bringing about a whole new paradigm for concerts, showcasing Africa’s brilliance to the world.
“We’re creating an entirely new concert paradigm. By merging advanced mixed reality with South Africa’s vibrant musical legacy, we’ve developed an experience that erases physical limitations. Whether you’re moving to the beat at Constitution Hill or tuning in from Tokyo, you’ll be immersed in a landmark event that broadcasts Africa’s creative brilliance to the globe,” said Balkind.
Speaking about the festival Jessica Denyschen, CEO of ACT, said: “The Road to Amapiano Festival Experience is not just a celebration of music; it's a celebration of our cultural heritage and the limitless potential of South African creativity. We invite you to join us on this incredible journey and be part of history in the making. As part of the Arts and Culture Trust’s 30 years of investing in the South African arts and culture sector, this festival will be a legacy for creating sustainable livelihoods for cultural and creative practitioners in the digital age.”
Poovi Pillay, executive head of corporate social investment at Nedbank, said the local artists get to share 30 years of musical ingenuity.
“Our musicians and all our artists are one of our greatest riches, and that is why Nedbank has supported ACT since 1994. They are the fabric of society; they are the keepers of our country and continent’s heart and soul. At this phenomenal Road to Amapiano, they get to share 30 years of musical ingenuity at Constitution Hill and with the whole world.”
The Star
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za