Montreux Jazz Festival Franschhoek adds 15 DJs and vinyl selectors

Venecia Valentine

Montreux Jazz Festival Franschhoek has expanded its programme with the announcement of 15 DJs, vinyl selectors and music curators set to perform at the inaugural African edition of the legendary festival.

Taking place from 27 to 29 March 2026 in Franschhoek, the festival will combine live performances with curated DJ sets and vinyl listening sessions that celebrate the diversity of contemporary music culture.

South Africa’s top DJs join the line-up

The newly announced line-up includes some of South Africa’s most respected DJs and selectors:

• DJ Zinhle
• DJ Kent
• Lelowhatsgood
• DJ Kenzhero
• Kay Faith
• That Guy S’bu
• Trev The Japanese
• DJ Mighty
• Homie.Lover.Friend
• Nelee
• Charles Leonard
• CandyFlip
• Cassiem Latief and Leighton Moody performing together
• Rosey Gold

Each performer has been selected not only for their DJ skills but also for their role as musical storytellers with deep record collections and distinctive curatorial styles.

A broader celebration of music culture

According to festival founder Mark Goedvolk, the inclusion of DJs and selectors reflects the broader musical spirit of the festival.

Montreux has historically celebrated a wide spectrum of genres and formats, from jazz and soul to electronic and experimental music.

The DJ programme at the Franschhoek edition continues this philosophy by recognising the influence of selectors in shaping global music culture.

Vinyl sessions and dancefloor energy

The DJs will perform across multiple spaces during the festival weekend.

Intimate vinyl listening sessions will take place in the Jazz Village, while high-energy DJ sets will unfold at The Arches Stage alongside performances by international and African artists.

Festival programming curator Lindsay Rhoda says DJs play an important role in connecting musical genres, eras and communities.

Selectors often act as musical historians, uncovering rare records and introducing audiences to unexpected sounds.

A historic moment for the Montreux brand

The 2026 event marks the first time the iconic Montreux Jazz Festival has been staged on African soil.

Founded in Switzerland in 1967, the festival has grown into one of the world’s most respected music events, known for bringing together artists from across genres and cultures.

With its inaugural African edition in Franschhoek, the festival aims to blend global music heritage with the vibrant sounds and creative energy of the continent.

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