Benjamin Jephta, Elaine and Tresor to bring a fresh twist to the Joy of Jazz festival

What do you get when you mix the magnetic allure of Esperanza Spalding with some Benjamin Jephta fervour, then top it up with the magic of Elaine and finish it off with the soulful taste of Tresor?

These artists are among the exciting line-up for the three-day 2025 Standard Bank Joy of Jazz festival set to stage in September.

The festival will showcase over 60 musicians from 15 countries and three continents performing at the Sandton International Convention Centre from September 26 to 28.

Elaine, Jephta and Tresor will headline the Mbira Stage, known for its lighthearted singalong atmosphere.

They will be joined by José James, Amanda Black, KB Motsilanyane, Sylent Nqo, Velemseni and Leomile.

Berita, Mondli Ngcobo and Muneyi will also feature. 

For R&B chanteuse Elaine, this is a great opportunity to further showcase her craft.

“It’s funny because a lot of my catalogue is actually rooted in jazz, I feel like jazz is the foundation. The best reference is my song with Kabza de Small; we had live horns in the studio in Kabza’s home — he brought live horns,” Elaine said.

“So I want to bring the experience we had in the studio with these instruments and live music on stage. I’ve never done it before.