We all know that South Africa isn’t a much-visited destination for our favourite international acts. Well, that’s all about to change because Joburg will host some A-list international artists throughout the year. We shine the spotlight on international performers who have finally realised that Joburg is worth a visit.
Save The Date To See Your Favourite Artists
Let’s be honest, South Africa isn’t exactly known as a destination to see world-class performances. Thankfully, it seems like artists are starting to realise that “World Tour” doesn’t just include the United States and Europe. Here are the highly-anticipated global acts who will be touching down on Joburg soil in 2026. Clear your diaries and save the date so you don’t miss out!
Bryan Adams
Renowned Canadian rock singer-songwriter Bryan Adams will be bringing his "Roll with the Punches" world tour to South Africa, where he will be singing hits from his four-decade career. The "I Do It For You" hitmaker will kick off the South African leg of his tour in Cape Town, then Pretoria, before closing of the tour with two shows in Durban.
To purchase tickets to his concerts, click here!
Details: Date: Cape Town (21, 23 April), Pretoria (25, 26 April), Durban (28, 29 April) | Tickets
Ella Mai
R&B fans, you’re not ready for this! Grammy Award-winning singer and songwriter, Ella Mai, is coming to Mzansi this April. She is known for her hit songs “Boo'd Up” and “Trip”, amongst others.
Ella will be performing songs from her latest album, “Do You Still Love Me?” as well as some of her older hits at the Konka Kulture Weekend at the Sun City Superbowl. Head over to Webtickets to secure your spot.
Details: Date: 25 April 2026 | Tickets | Superbowl, Sun City, North West
ULTRA South Africa Featuring Global DJs
Electronic music fans will be struggling to contain their excitement with this year’s ULTRA South Africa line-up. Spoiler alert: it’s stacked! Ultra is one of the country’s largest and most-loved music festivals, and they don’t disappoint when it comes to performers.
The 2026 edition will take place on Saturday, 25 April 2026, at the Expo Centre at Nasrec. Fans can look forward to internationally known names such as DJ Snake, Axwell, Afrojack, R3hab, and John Summit. Grab your tickets from the ULTRA South Africa website and get ready for unlimited electronic vibes.
Details: Date: 25 April 2026 | Tickets | Expo Centre at Nasrec, Nasrec Rd & Rand Show Rd, Nasrec, Johannesburg
Now Now Festival Featuring The Human League
Make way for a brand-new live music experience! The Now Now Festival, powered by HOT102.7FM, is a music event celebrating classic hits and iconic sounds. It will make its South African debut in Joburg in May 2026 at Marks Park in Emmarentia.
Legendary British synth-pop band, The Human League, will headline the all-new festival, and more artists are still to be announced. Tickets to the festival are available at Webtickets.
Details: Date: 9 May 2026 | Tickets | Marks Park, Orange Road, Emmarentia, Johannesburg
Boys II Men
The iconic 4X Grammy Award-winning R&B group, Boys II Men, will be live in South Africa for three shows only, where fans can witness them performing their greatest hits such as "End of the Road", "On Bended Knee", "A Song for Mama", and "Never".
Tickets can be purchased exclusively from webtickets and Pick 'n Pay outlets nationwide.
Details: Date: 27 May, Grand Arena, Grandwest, Cape Town, 29 & 30 May, Sunbet Arena, Time Square, Pretoria | Tickets
UB40
UB40 will be touring South Africa in June with Ali Campbell, performing their most-loved hits like "Red Red Wine", "Here I Am", "The Way You Do The Things You Do", and "Kingston Town".
Tickets to their shows are available from R800.00, and can be purchased from Ticketmaster and Big Concerts.
Details: Date: Cape Town (2 June), Durban (4 June), Pretoria (6 & 7 June) | Tickets
J. Cole
Stop what you’re doing, J. Cole is coming back to South Africa! This global rap sensation last performed in Joburg in 2016 and is set to embark on a world tour for his latest album, “The Fall Off”, in July. We’re going to have to wait until December to see him live in Joburg, but that’s okay since he saved the best city for last.
If you’re a die-hard J.Cole fan, run, don’t walk, to book your tickets at Ticketmaster! Come early, we’re sure the vibes will start long before he hits the stage.
Details: Date: 12 December 2026 | Tickets | FNB Stadium, Soccer City Ave, Nasrec, Johannesburg
South Africa is finally on the touring map for world-class performers. We know you’re just as excited as we are! R&B songbirds and legendary groups are just some of the international acts that will grace the South African stage this year, so there’s something for everyone. If you’re ready to show your favourite artists just how passionate Joburgers are, make sure you book your tickets soon!