Acoustic Icon, Vusi Mahlasela to Headline the 20th Anniversary of Bassline Fest

The annual Bassline Fest has become an institution in Joburg at Constitution Hill. Each year, a lineup of top-notch talent from across the continent graces the stage for special live performances. And kids are welcome to join too! This year’s music festival takes place on 23 May 2026.

“Bassline Fest is welcoming everyone in the city to come celebrate with song, dance, food and fun,” says Paige Holmes from Bassline Fest. “There will be an African artisanal market selling all manner of exquisitely created African food, arts and crafts, as well as bars and other food and drink stalls to choose from.” This year, the event celebrates its 20th anniversary with a blockbuster lineup:

Headline acts for Bassline Fest 2026

Bassline Fest in Johannesburg | What's on in Joburg

Vusi Mahlasela

The headline act for Bassline Fest 2026 is Vusi Mahlasela, affectionately known as “The Voice”, is one of South Africa’s most revered musicians and celebrated for his powerful vocals and poetic songwriting rooted in hope, resilience and humanity.

Raised in Mamelodi Township, where he still lives, Mahlasela emerged as a self-taught guitarist, poet and activist whose music helped give voice to a nation navigating the transition from apartheid to democracy.

His career took flight with the release of his debut album, When You Come Back, leading to a historic performance at Nelson Mandela’s inauguration in 1994. Since then, he has toured extensively worldwide, sharing stages with artists such as Sting, Paul Simon and the Dave Matthews Band, who later signed him to ATO Records.

Maleh

Maleh, the songstress from Lesotho, is set to share the stage with over 20 years in the live music industry with her recent album, titled Lerato Laka. This body of work was produced by Nigerian-born artist Victor Ikeigbo aka ‘Goldsmithonthebeat’ and has expanded Maleh’s market reach by brilliantly fusing the customary African drum patterns and raw basslines of West Africa, with the smooth classic soulful sounds and melodies that are distinct to Southern African music.

DJ sets and groovy tunes at the Dance Afrika capsule stage

The Dance Afrika capsule boasts a dedicated stage focused on some of the vibiest and progressive DJ sets in the African music scene right now. This year’s headliners will be confirmed soon.

Visit the Curated Market pop-up while you’re there

Bassline Fest will also feature a Culture Market, adding another vibrant layer to the festival experience. This curated craft, food and design market will showcase high-end, sustainable handmade goods from South African visual artists and makers. Festival-goers can browse original, thoughtfully crafted pieces that celebrate local creativity and design excellence. Alongside the artisan stalls, the Food Fair will offer a wide selection of local flavours.