Saxophonist Linda Sikhakhane is set to deliver an electrifying performance at CTIJF 2025.
Image: Siphiwe Mlhambi
Cape Town, February 28, 2025 – The Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF) continues to build anticipation with this week's artist announcements revealing a phenomenal line-up that promises an unforgettable experience for jazz lovers.
Headlining this week’s reveal is none other than contemporary R&B powerhouse Ari Lennox, joined by South African jazz trailblazers Benjamin Jephta with Kujenga, Linda Sikhakhane, Victor Masondo and his dynamic quartet, and the celebrated vocalist, composer, and academic Nomfundo Xaluva.
Lennox, known for her sultry vocals and deeply personal songwriting, will grace the CTIJF stage for the first time, bringing her signature blend of soul, R&B, and raw storytelling.
R&B sensation Ari Lennox is set to grace the CTIJF 2025 stage.
Image: Supplied.
Meanwhile, Jephta marks the 10th anniversary of his ground-breaking album “Homecoming” with a bold reimagining, featuring the captivating Kujenga collective.
Known for their dynamic energy and seamless fusion of jazz, soul, and African rhythms, Kujenga will bring a fresh, modern touch to Jephta’s music, celebrating his decade-long journey in the industry.
Benjamin Jephta and the captivating Kujenga collective will perform together at the CTIJF 2024.
Image: Supplied.
Saxophonist Sikhakhane, a visionary in contemporary jazz, captivates with his emotive and exploratory sound. A graduate of The New School University in New York, he blends South African jazz traditions with modern influences, creating a rich, textured sound that resonates globally.
Having worked with Nduduzo Makhathini, Derrick Hodge, and Herbie Tsoaeli, his CTIJF performance promises to be a powerful journey through sound and spirit.
Masondo, a musical virtuoso, presents his latest project alongside an electrifying quartet and featuring Thembi Mtshali and Bheki Khoza. Mtshali, an award-winning actress and singer, brings her storytelling brilliance and powerful vocals, while Khoza, a left-handed jazz guitarist, fuses intricate fingerstyle with Zulu music traditions.
Having collaborated with legends like Hugh Masekela, Miriam Makeba, and Winston Mankunku Ngozi, they will deliver a deeply emotive and musically intricate performance. The Victor Masondo Quartet’s set will be a masterful blend of jazz improvisation and African rhythms, promising an unforgettable experience at CTIJF 2025.
Adding to the line-up, the incomparable Xaluva, a powerhouse in South African jazz, will take the stage. An award-winning vocalist, composer, and academic, Xaluva’s deep knowledge of jazz traditions and her contemporary approach make her a standout performer. Her performances blend intricate vocal harmonies, soul-stirring storytelling, and an effortless ability to connect with her audience, promising a set filled with passion and innovation.
Last week’s announcements featured an extraordinary collaboration between global icon Black Coffee and visionary jazz pianist Nduduzo Makhathini. This special project, backed by a full orchestra, blends deep house, spiritual jazz, and classical influences into a genre-defying masterpiece. With Black Coffee’s unmatched electronic expertise and Makhathini’s deep-rooted jazz spirituality, this performance promises to be a festival highlight—an awe-inspiring fusion of tradition and innovation.
This year’s 22nd edition of the Cape Town International Jazz Festival will feature over 30 artists under the theme “Legends Meet Tomorrow” — a celebration of innovation, fusion, and diversity. With an artist line-up that offers something for every kind of jazz lover, CTIJF 2025 is set to be an unforgettable journey through the evolving sounds of jazz.
And the excitement is far from over — next week’s artist reveal promises even more surprises and ground-breaking performances. Stay tuned!
For more information, visit www.capetownjazzfest.co.za or follow us on social media @officialcapetownjazzfestival. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.co.za.