ULTRA South Africa: celebrating diversity and innovation in electronic music

As ULTRA South Africa celebrates over a decade of establishing itself as a cornerstone in the electronic music landscape, it not only continues to push production boundaries but also embraces a line-up that reflects the vibrant future of dance music: diverse, unapologetic, and firmly ahead of the curve.

In recent years, where the global music industry's trends often offered limited platforms for women and queer artists, ULTRA South Africa has made a clear and intentional pivot. The festival is proud to feature a growing roster of female and LGBTQ+ talent whose unique sounds, powerful visuals, and considerable cultural impact are actively reshaping dance floors worldwide.

Among the pioneers setting the stage is DJ Lady Lea is a fixture at ULTRA and the founder of Divas on Decks—a DJ agency dedicated to mentoring emerging female artists. Her legacy has not only inspired generations of women to find their place in the scene but also has paved pathways for future talent in the DJ booth.

Throughout the festival's formative years, icons like Ms Cosmo and Claudia Lovisa carried the torch until powerhouse DJ Zinhle electrified the Johannesburg Main Stage in 2020 with her signature blend of classic beats and modern energy. The 2023 edition welcomed global sensation Uncle Waffles, further proving that star power, skill, and originality transcend gender. Her Amapiano sets, coupled with viral visuals and trend-setting fashion, illustrate a holistic expression of a culture where she continually challenges stereotypes.

Joining these trailblazers, Desiree, an intersex artist, is redefining Afro House and melodic Techno on an international platform. Her emotionally resonant performances have garnered acclaim far beyond South Africa, and her visibility inspires those whose stories must be told. Furthermore, soulful singer and producer Sio delivered a deeply emotive performance in 2024, capturing hearts with her vocal-led expression.

The club scene blossomed at ULTRA as the Club House pulsed with the unmatched energy of DBN Gogo, who continues to innovate within the Amapiano genre. Invitingly vibrant, the 2023 lineup also featured Lelowhatsgood, an advocate for South Africa’s queer nightlife and ballroom scene, confirming ULTRA’s commitment to amplifying the voices originating from the margins of society. His powerful presence and invitation to fellow advocates AN.D, Mila Rose, and Shamiso for 2025 promise to further elevate the festival's lineup, showcasing a diverse spectrum of styles that celebrate progress and inclusivity.

“We’ve built such a free and welcoming environment,” Lelowhatsgood reflects. “I think it’s a testament to the music because it comes first before the politics. I was welcomed with open arms as an openly queer person. Now queer DJs are sharing stages with the likes of DJ Lag, who has expressed support for the queer community. It’s a beautiful and supportive community that I never imagined could exist.”

ULTRA South Africa is more than a festival; it serves as a cultural movement that resonates through personal narratives, community histories, and African rhythms. The performances are more than mere music—they are soundscapes that reimagine the essence of dance music, encouraging audiences to step away from their screens and embrace the dancefloor again.

The multifaceted nature of these DJs, producers, and curators extends beyond music—they are cultural leaders involved in label ownership, visual arts, community-building, and international trendsetting. Their enduring influence ripples through fashion, dance, and social media, ensuring their legacies continue long after the final beat drops.

Recognising the expanding global dance scene, ULTRA South Africa champions local excellence, solidifying the country’s role as a leader in this vibrant industry. The festival’s commitment to diverse representation shifts the conversation from mere recognition to embracing cultural leadership. By booking groundbreaking talent that spans gender, racial identities, and underground scenes, ULTRA is firmly embedding itself in the future of dance music—a future that is diverse, African, queer, and female-led.

In South Africa, electronic music is not just a genre—it is an integral part of daily life, to be felt, seen, and lived. At ULTRA South Africa, the music unites people in shared experiences, propelling them forward together amidst the tapestry of culture that only this festival can offer.