The Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF), Africa’s grandest jazz gathering, is set to make a triumphant return on August 15-16, 2025, after a brief hiatus, with South African global sensation Tyla headlining alongside a vibrant lineup of local jazz and crossover artists. Announced on July 12, 2025, by Music In Africa, the festival’s relaunch promises to redefine South Africa’s entertainment scene, blending jazz with amapiano, Afro-soul, and hip-hop to attract a new generation of fans. With its iconic setting at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, the event is poised to draw thousands of local and international visitors, reinforcing the city’s status as a cultural hub.
The CTIJF, often dubbed “Africa’s Grandest Gathering,” has been a cornerstone of South Africa’s music scene since 2000, known for showcasing both jazz legends and emerging talents. This year’s relaunch comes after a two-year pause due to funding challenges, with organizers now securing support from the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture and private sponsors like Standard Bank. Tyla, fresh off her Coachella 2025 performance and her new single “IS IT,” as noted by OkayAfrica, will headline with a set that fuses her signature pop-amapiano sound with jazz influences. “Cape Town is where my heart is,” Tyla shared on X, where fans are buzzing with excitement under hashtags like #CTIJF2025. “I’m bringing something special for my people.”
The lineup also features local jazz luminaries like Vuma Levin, whose genre-defying work with Swiss musicians was praised by OkayAfrica for its emotional resonance and technical precision. Levin’s performance will showcase tracks from his 2025 album, blending South African jazz with global influences. Rising star Mandisi Dyantyis, known for his soulful storytelling, and Afro-soul vocalist Langa Mavuso will add depth to the festival, while amapiano duo TxC will bring high-energy beats to attract younger audiences. “The festival is about bridging generations,” says CTIJF director Billy Domingo. “Tyla and TxC bring the youth, while Vuma and Mandisi honor our jazz roots.”
The event’s cultural impact extends beyond music, with a focus on community engagement. Free workshops at the CTICC will offer aspiring musicians training in jazz improvisation and digital production, aligning with SACO’s 2025 call for artist development. The festival will also feature a craft market and food stalls showcasing Cape Town’s culinary diversity, enhancing its appeal as a cultural tourism draw. According to a 2023 Economist report, music festivals like CTIJF contribute significantly to local economies, with last year’s event generating over R100 million in revenue for Cape Town. Organizers expect 2025 to surpass this, driven by Tyla’s global draw and international ticket sales.
Social media is abuzz with anticipation, with X users praising the festival’s inclusive lineup. “Tyla and Vuma Levin on the same stage? This is what SA music is about,” posted @JazzLoverSA. However, challenges like high ticket prices and accessibility for rural fans remain. Organizers are addressing this with subsidized tickets for students and a livestream partnership with Spotify, ensuring global access. The festival’s return also reflects the growing global appetite for South African music, as evidenced by artists like Black Coffee, who sold out Madison Square Garden, per Billboard.
The CTIJF’s relaunch is a testament to South Africa’s vibrant music scene, which continues to evolve by blending tradition with innovation. Tyla’s headline slot, alongside local stars, underscores the festival’s role in showcasing the nation’s diverse talent. “Jazz is our heritage, but it’s also our future,” says Levin. “This festival shows how we’re redefining it for the world.” As Cape Town prepares to host this musical celebration, the CTIJF 2025 promises to be a landmark event, uniting fans, artists, and cultures in a joyous celebration of South Africa’s creative spirit.
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