Grammy Award-winning artist Zakes Bantwini has been announced as the headline act for the inaugural Scatterlings Music Festival, taking place on 1 August 2026 at Huddle Park in Johannesburg.
One of South Africa’s most celebrated musical exports, Zakes Bantwini’s headline performance will anchor a landmark night of live music, bringing his globally recognised catalogue and unmistakable stage presence to one of the year’s most anticipated cultural events.
Best known for his Grammy Award-winning contribution to “Bayethe”, Zakes Bantwini has become a defining figure in South African music, blending electronic, afro-pop and dance influences into a sound that resonates both locally and internationally.
“Johannesburg has always held a special place in my journey” says Zakes. “This is where the music connects differently, where the energy is real, and where people show up not just to watch, but to feel every moment. There’s something about this city, it pushes you, it inspires you, and it reminds you why you started. To headline Scatterlings here, in front of a home crowd, is something I don’t take lightly. I’m bringing everything to that stage. This is going to be a powerful night for the music, for the culture, and for the city.”
Joining Zakes Bantwini on the line-up is a powerful collective of South African talent, including Sjava, Sun-El Musician, Msaki, Jesse Clegg, MUZI, Sminofu, J’Something, Simmy, TRESOR, and Zolani Mahola, among others.
With Zakes Bantwini at the top of the bill, the festival positions itself as a major moment on the 2026 live music calendar, offering audiences a rare opportunity to experience one of the country’s biggest stars alongside a carefully curated all-star line-up in a single night.
“On 1 August, Scatterlings Music Festival comes to life as thousands will gather for a one-night-only celebration of music and meaning, where audiences don’t just watch, but become part of the story,” says Jesse Clegg. “It’s about bringing South Africans together again through music that has always connected us.”
Curated and conceptualised by Jesse Clegg and Msaki, Scatterlings Music Festival brings together leading and emerging voices in South African music for a shared celebration of heritage, identity, and sound.
Tickets now on sale via www.webtickets.co.za.
Tickets are expected to move quickly, with additional announcements and festival details to follow.
