LOOK: The stars came to play for the first night of the CTIJF 2025
CAPE TOWN INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL
US jazz superstar Kandace Springs serenaded festinos during the first night of the CTIJF 2025.
Image: Photographer: Ayanda Ndamane / Independent Newspapers
It shimmied, it shone, it jazzed it up. The Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF) was a vibrant display of musical talent last night in its first night in Cape Town this year.
Jazz enthusiasts were buzzing with excitement as renowned artists from across the globe took to the various stages. The fans went mad, dancing until the early hours of the morning, and the artists gave their best, bringing everyone along with them in what was an opening night to remember.
The annual celebration of jazz, known for its rich tapestry of performances, highlighted the immense diversity of the genre, blending African rhythms and international influences.
In case you missed it (don't worry there is still one more night with other artists tonight), here are some of the acts from last night: the stars, the stages and the buzz.
Kippies stage
Among the standout performances was that of Masego, known for his innovative sound that seamlessly incorporates the saxophone into his rhythm and blues-inspired tracks. As he graced the Kippies stage, the crowd responded with unrestrained enthusiasm, clearly relishing the musical journey he provided.
Following Masego was the revered DJ Black Coffee, who teamed up with musician Nduduzo Makhathini, elevating the night with a fusion of traditional jazz and house music melodies that kept festival-goers dancing late into the night.
Masego performing on the Kippies stage during the first night of the CTIJF 2025.
Image: Armand Hough / Independent Newspapers
Manenberg stage
Meanwhile, at the Manenberg stage, the atmosphere was electric as The Plomies and The Brother Moves On belted out pulsating tunes that blurred the lines between jazz and rock, infusing the event with an infectious energy. The group Incognito graced the stage with an exhilarating mix of jazz, funk, and soul, while iconic kwaito group TKZee provided a nostalgic yet invigorating experience, showcasing their influential sound that has shaped the South African music scene.
Ivan Mazuze: Penuka performing on the first night of the CTIJF 2025.
Image: Ayanda Ndamane
Molelekwa stage
Attendees at the Molelekwa stage were equally captivated, experiencing performances by iPhupho L’ka Biko, a group steeped in the traditions of African music, who delivered spiritually charged performances that resonated deeply with many. Cape Town-born trumpeter Muneeb Hermans dazzled the audience with his unique compositions, followed by the soulful renditions of American jazz and R&B vocalist Kandace Springs, whose velvety voice and exceptional piano skills enchanted listeners. Mozambican-born saxophonist and contemporary world jazz visionary Ivan Mazuze rounded off the stage with an innovative blend of African traditions and modern improvisation.
Black Coffee rocked the CTIJF 2025 Kippies stage.
Image: Armand Hough / Independent Newspapers
Rosies stage
At the Rosies stage, saxophonist Linda Sikhakhane brought a fresh, modern take on jazz that resonated with the audience. Joining him were legendary bassist Victor Masondo, who collaborated seamlessly with guitarist Bheki Khoza, and the powerful vocals of Thembi. The jazz ensemble Plurism concluded the night, enchanting attendees with their innovative blend of African and European musical influences, successfully rounding off an unforgettable evening of rhythm and harmony.