ABOUT WAV FESTIVAL
Reimagining R&B in the World’s Most Beautiful City
WAV Festival is a bold new celebration redefining R&B through an African lens, debuting on 2 January 2026 in Cape Town, the world’s most beautiful city.
More than just a festival, WAV is an experience — a meeting point for music, culture, and style.Created for those who live and breathe R&B, WAV honours the genre’s timeless soul while boldly reinterpreting its future. Every element, from the line-up to the visuals and atmosphere, connects a global sound with African creativity and spirit.
Where Music, Culture & Fashion Collide
Curated by TMG, creators of the world-renowned Afro Nation, and Africa Creative Agency (ACA), WAV Festival brings together the most exciting voices in R&B, soul, and alternative music for a day of sound, style, and cultural connection.
Set against Cape Town’s iconic coastline, the debut edition features:
Mariah The Scientist – redefining the sound for a new generation
Kelvin Momo – South Africa’s amapiano pioneer (special guest)
Shekhinah, Manana, Nanette, Kujenga, and Strictly Soul Hour feat. Akio & Yandani
This carefully curated line-up reflects WAV’s mission to bridge continents, amplify collaboration, and celebrate African and diasporic creativity.
A Movement Rooted in Authenticity
WAV Festival isn’t just a show; it’s a statement. It’s a place where global African culture meets on equal ground, and where next-generation artists can thrive.
Through sound, fashion, and connection, WAV embodies the soulful, forward-thinking, and unapologetically authentic spirit of modern R&B. Every performance celebrates not only where R&B has come from but where it’s going next.
Built for the Culture
WAV Festival is produced by:
The Malachite Group (TMG)
Creators of groundbreaking entertainment brands like Afro Nation, Piano People, and Afrotronic, The Malachite Group are global curators of culture and champions of African heritage, investing in music, talent, and transformative experiences.
Africa Creative Agency (ACA)
With offices in Johannesburg, London, Los Angeles, and Nairobi, ACA bridges African talent with the global stage. The agency represents artists such as Tyla, Nasty C, Pearl Thusi, and Maglera Doe Boy, driving collaboration, representation, and the international rise of African creativity.
Together, TMG and ACA unite local insight with global ambition, building a festival that celebrates culture, community, and connection.
JOIN THE WAVE
On 2 January 2026, Cape Town becomes the epicentre of global R&B culture. Join us for a day that celebrates the past, present, and future of soulful music in a city that embodies beauty, creativity, and connection.
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