Durban, South Africa – The Music Imbizo 2025, Africa’s leading music business conference, returns to the Durban ICC from 26–30 August under the theme “At the Root of Innovation is Culture, Creativity and the Power of IP.”
The event will open on 26 August with a performance by Zawadi Yamungu, followed by four nights of evening showcases featuring artists such as Maskandi star Khuzani, jazz pianist Dr Sbu Mash Mashiloane, vocalist Ayanda Jiya, Joliza BhacaSoul, Ofishabakhulu, and international acts Xixel Langa from Mozambique and Faray Tha Great from Zimbabwe.
Running alongside the conference, the Music Imbizo Film Festival from 27–29 August will screen music-focused films, including Zinhle Madela’s documentary Isigcawu – A Journey Back To Heart and The Lexikon 2.0 Project by Lex Lafoy and Slimdogmillionaire, with support from SAMRO.
Over five days, the conference will feature more than 60 speakers, 25 artists, 30 exhibitors, and competitions such as the Beat Battle, Hackathon, Moot Court, and Film Scoring Challenge. Daytime sessions will cover topics from African music’s role in the digital economy to tech, tradition, brand building, and global market expansion.
Partners supporting the event include SABC 1, Durban Tourism, Independent Media, Brand South Africa, CAPASSO, SAMRO, Spotify, Bathu, and Italy’s NoOx Worldwide, ensuring broad industry engagement and opportunities for African artists.
Tickets are available through Webtickets and Pick n Pay outlets, with the full programme accessible at www.themusicimbizo.co.za.
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