October promises to be a busy month for live music lovers in Johannesburg and the surrounding Gauteng region, offering diverse events—from international rapper performances and hip-hop festivals to jazz and chamber concerts.
This cultural calendar features numerous events, including a tour by British rapper Dave and the celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Back to the City festival.
Dave's Tour Performance as Part of The Boy Who Played the Harp
British rapper Dave will hold his 'The Boy Who Played the Harp' tour stop in South Africa on October 3rd. The concert will take place at Sunbet Arena in Pretoria, which is convenient for Joburg residents in the Gauteng region. The artist is expected to present his acclaimed repertoire, including tracks from his latest album, 'The Boy Who Played the Harp.' Tickets for this event are available from R855.
Spring Fiesta 2026 Festival
The Spring Fiesta festival will return, offering a massive day of dance music on October 3rd at Wild Waters Complex. The event will run from 12:00 PM to 1:00 AM and will unite various genres such as house, deep house, hip-hop, and electronic music. On stage at Stay True Sounds, British producer Atjazz and South African deep house pioneer Jullian Gomes will perform. Other announced participants include Dwson, Kid Fonque, KUDbEU, Aquatone, and Vinny Da Vinci with DJ Christos. It is important to note that this event is for persons aged 18 and over, and organizers advise using Uber. Ticket prices start from R400.
Isaiah Rashad as Part of In The City JHB
Immediately following the October 3rd concert, American rapper Isaiah Rashad will come to Johannesburg to participate in In The City JHB on October 4th. His performance will be held at the Montecasino Outdoor Events Arena, where he will be accompanied by Sinead Harnett and rum.gold. This makes the beginning of October particularly packed for hip-hop fans.
Miriam Altman and The Butterfly Project Live in Concert
For a more intimate format, jazz vocalist, songwriter, and producer Miriam Altman will present her project The Butterfly at Wits Theatre. The project blends contemporary vocal jazz with soul, poetry, African rhythmic influences, and a classical vocal foundation, exploring themes of resilience, renewal, and darkness. Altman will perform with an impressive ensemble of South African jazz musicians, including Tlale Makhene, Tendai Shoko, Dalisu Ndlazi, Sunnyboy Mthimune, Lungile Kunene, and Kuki Mokubetsi. The album was co-produced with award-winning pianist and producer Luyanda Madope. The Johannesburg concert is dedicated to the release of the album The Butterfly Project and will be built around storytelling, contemporary jazz, and musical transformation. The date in Johannesburg is set for October 10th, and tickets can be purchased via Quicket starting from R200.
Back to the City Festival — 20th Anniversary
Johannesburg hip-hop fans can celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Back to the City festival on October 10th. The festival will gather both international stars, such as Ab-Soul, Slum Village, and Blu & Exile, and South African artists, including Cassper Nyovest, Emtee, Blxckie, Stogie T, Reason, Tuks, Touchline, and Trompies. In addition to music, visitors can expect street art, fashion, skateboarding, esports, food courts, DJ and MC battles, and a broad celebration of hip-hop culture. The event is scheduled to begin at 12:00 PM in Mary Fitzgerald Square, Newtown, and tickets start from R200.
Giuseppe Ottaviani — Chapter IV: South Africa
Electronic music lovers can attend The Soundroom, where Giuseppe Ottaviani will perform as he returns to South Africa for another We Are Trance experience. The international trance DJ will be accompanied by Dirkie Coetzee, Pierre Pienaar, Corrie Theron, Eggsta, and That Girl. The concert is scheduled for October 17th, and tickets start from R500.
Mthunzi — Night with Mthunzi and Friends
Mthunzi will hold his live show at Carnival City, which will focus on collaborations. The singer will perform alongside special guests and musical friends, covering songs from his catalog as well as presenting joint compositions and popular hits. This will take place on October 24th, and tickets are available from R250.
Zawadi Yamungu — Live Performance at Basement
For those who prefer a more intimate atmosphere, Zawadi Yamungu will perform at Untitled Basement with a presentation of her evolving sound. The performance is based on her album 'NGIMUHLE' and showcases her ongoing musical journey, utilizing local instruments, modern African sounds, and addressing themes of identity and transformation. The concert is scheduled for October 24th. Doors open at 6:00 PM, and the show starts at 8:00 PM. Tickets can be bought through Quicket for R300 or purchased at the door for R350.