Yussef Dayes set for triumphant return to the 23rd CTIJF
Yussef Dayes is set to return to the 2026 Cape Town International Jazz Festival, promising an unforgettable performance that showcases his innovative approach to jazz music alongside a stellar line-up of international and local artists.
Image: Armand Hough
The Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF) has officially confirmed that acclaimed drummer and composer Yussef Dayes will return to the stage on Saturday, 28 March 2026. Following a transformative few years on the global circuit, Dayes’ return marks a full-circle moment for an artist who prides himself on creating the next evolution of jazz music.
As the world began to get familiar with his name, Yussef Dayes released “The Yussef Dayes Experience - Live from Malibu” in 2024. The project is a body of work featuring eight songs, all renditions of live performances which took place in the Malibu mountains. As 2025 rolled around, Dayes released "Amani", a single which featured a guest appearance from Minami Kizuki.
Yussef Dayes performing at the 21st Cape Town International Jazz festival in 2024.
Image: Ian Landsberg
He has also collaborated with Rocco Palladino, Tom Misch, Sampha, Kehlani, and Chronixx and has performed at the Glastonbury Festival, Copenhagen Jazz Festival, North Sea Jazz Festival and Golden Plains.
Now firmly established as a solo powerhouse, his performance stands as a testament to the festival’s commitment to bringing world-class, forward-thinking talent to South African soil. Make sure you’re there to witness the evolution in person.
As Dayes prepares to perform on the Kippies stage at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, the 23rd edition of the festival is shaping up to be an unmissable weekend for purists and new-age fans alike. Other international acts include UK multi-instrumentalist Jacob Collier, UK artist Jasmine Myra and legendary American jazz fusion group Yellowjackets.
Local artists include lordkez, Manana, Jazzwrld and Thukuthela, Rorisang Sechele, Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse, Nduduzo Makhathini, alongside Zoe Modiga, Linda Sikhakhane, Ayanda Ntanzi, Thando Zide, Benjamin Jephta, Ndabo Zulu and Muneyi.
Other acts making waves on the local scene include Jabulile Majola, Scorpion Kings, Dr Sibusiso “Mash” Mashiloane, Carlo Mombelli and Chapter 7, BCUC, CTIJF Jazz Orchestra, Camissa Knights, Sio and giuliette price. More artists are still being announced.
Tickets are available on Ticketmaster, with Buy Now Pay Later options on loot.co.za
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