Hey KK Fam , all music lovers, and anyone looking for an epic start to 2026! Get ready because a brand-new festival is hitting Cape Town, and it’s set to make some serious waves. The WAV Festival is making its grand debut on January 2nd, 2026, promising a fresh take on R&B, soul, and alternative music. Think good vibes, incredible talent, and a celebration of African and diasporic culture, all rolled into one amazing day.
This isn’t just another music festival; it’s a carefully crafted experience that blends music, culture, and fashion. And where better to kick it off than in Cape Town, a city that’s buzzing with energy and recognized as one of the most exciting places on the planet right now?
Cape Town: The Place to Be!
Choosing Cape Town for the WAV Festival’s launch isn’t by chance. This city has become a magnet for artists, musicians, and creative spirits from all over Africa and beyond. With new festivals popping up and a vibrant exchange of ideas, it’s clear that Cape Town is at the heart of a major cultural shift. WAV Festival is here to jump into that energy, add its own unique flavour, and really turn up the volume on what’s happening.
It’s designed for everyone – whether you’re a die-hard music fan, an adventurous cultural explorer, or someone who just loves good style. WAV is all about creating meaningful moments that connect sounds, places, and identities. They’re all about genuine collaboration, not just jumping on trends. By bringing together international stars and local heroes on the same stage, and working with awesome South African partners like Africa Creative Agency, WAV is setting a new standard for events on the continent. It’s going to be immersive, authentic, and truly collaborative!
Who’s Hitting the Stage? Prepare to Be Amazed!
The line-up for WAV Festival is seriously impressive, featuring artists who are pushing boundaries and defining new sounds:
•Mariah The Scientist: Get ready to be captivated! Mariah The Scientist is one of R&B’s hottest new voices. Her honest lyrics and magnetic presence have totally reshaped the genre for a new generation. This will be her first time performing in South Africa, bringing her Atlanta sound to a global audience right here on African soil. You don’t want to miss it!
•Kelvin Momo: South Africa’s very own Amapiano legend, Kelvin Momo, is joining as a special guest. If you know, you know! His deeply emotional and layered sound has a way of turning any dancefloor into a super intimate and immersive experience. Momo perfectly embodies WAV’s mission to blend genres and celebrate Africa’s ever-evolving music scene.
•The Future is Here: South African Talent: WAV is also shining a bright spotlight on the next generation of South African soul, R&B, and alternative artists. Look out for Shekhinah, Manana, Nanette, Kujenga, Strictly Soul Hour feat. Akio, and Yandani. Each of these artists brings something fresh and exciting, showcasing the incredible creativity and confidence of today’s youth culture in Africa.
More Than Just Tunes: It’s a Whole Vibe!
WAV Festival is all about honouring the soulful roots of R&B while also looking ahead to its future. It’s a global stage for both big international names and amazing home-grown talent, giving a platform to the voices that are shaping tomorrow’s sound and culture. Beyond the music, WAV is building a community and a lifestyle brand. They’re dedicated to nurturing new artists, encouraging cultural exchange, and totally redefining how we experience and share music and culture.
Colin Gayle from Africa Creative Agency (ACA) sums it up perfectly: “WAV is more than a show. It’s a space where global African culture meets on equal ground. For years I’ve had the privilege of helping connect African talent to the world, and this festival continues that journey. We’re proud to spotlight the next wave of voices shaping music, style and identity worldwide. It’s a bold statement for a connected, unapologetically creative future.” [1]
Born from a collaboration between The Malachite Group (the brilliant minds behind festivals like Afro Nation) and Africa Creative Agency, WAV Festival is built on tons of experience in culture and talent. With ACA’s deep connections in African talent management and The Malachite Group’s global festival expertise, WAV is coming to life with local insights and huge global ambitions.
Imagine this: an open-air stage, framed by Cape Town’s iconic coastline, filled with incredible music, culture, and connections. WAV Festival promises an unforgettable day with a thoughtfully curated line-up that celebrates African heritage, global innovation, and the cool intersections of sound, style, and design. Get your tickets ready; this is one event you won’t want to miss!
