Top 20 Concerts in Johannesburg (2025)

Posted on Author Dlamini Blessing

Johannesburg, South Africa’s vibrant economic and cultural hub, is a hotspot for live music, hosting an eclectic mix of international and local artists across genres like pop, jazz, Afrobeat, rock, and classical. In 2025, the city’s concert scene is set to dazzle with performances at iconic venues like FNB Stadium, The Dome, and SunBet Arena. This evergreen guide highlights the top 20 concerts in Johannesburg, offering details on artists, venues, dates, and ticket information. Whether you’re a fan of global superstars or local legends, this article ensures you stay informed about the best live music experiences in the City of Gold. From electrifying festivals to intimate gigs, we’ve curated a list based on popularity, cultural impact, and fan anticipation, with tips to secure tickets and plan your concert experience.

Top 20 Concerts in Johannesburg

1. Tems at The Dome

  • Date: March 20, 2025

  • Venue: The Dome, Nasrec, Johannesburg

  • Genre: Afrobeat, R&B, Neo-Soul

  • Details: Grammy Award-winning Nigerian artist Tems brings her soulful voice and hits like “Essence” and “Free Mind” to Johannesburg. Expect an unforgettable night of Afrobeat and R&B.

  • Tickets: R500–R1,500 via Ticketmaster

  • Tip: Book early, as Tems’ shows sell out quickly due to her global fanbase.

2. Sting 3.0 Tour

  • Date: February 15, 2025

  • Venue: SunBet Arena, Time Square, Pretoria (accessible from Johannesburg)

  • Genre: Rock, Pop

  • Details: The 17-time Grammy winner performs classics like “Fields of Gold” with guitarist Dominic Miller and drummer Chris Maas.

  • Tickets: R800–R2,000 via Ticketmaster

  • Tip: Arrive early for parking at this popular venue.

3. Andrea Bocelli with Johannesburg Festival Orchestra

  • Date: April 12–13, 2025

  • Venue: SunBet Arena, Time Square, Pretoria

  • Genre: Classical, Opera

  • Details: The iconic tenor is joined by a 60-piece choir and 69-piece orchestra, delivering a majestic performance.

  • Tickets: R1,935–R5,160 via Ticketmaster

  • Tip: Opt for premium seats for the best acoustics.

4. Kaytranada at Milk & Cookies Festival

  • Date: January 18, 2025

  • Venue: To be announced, Johannesburg

  • Genre: Electronic, Hip-Hop, Dance

  • Details: Grammy-winning DJ Kaytranada headlines the inaugural Milk & Cookies Festival, spinning hits like “10%” and “Intimidated.”

  • Tickets: R400–R1,200 via Quicket

  • Tip: Follow festival updates on social media for venue details.

5. Robbie Williams at Rock Festival

  • Date: February 1, 2025

  • Venue: SunBet Arena, Time Square, Pretoria

  • Genre: Pop, Rock

  • Details: The British pop icon with 18 BRIT Awards performs hits like “Angels” and “Rock DJ.”

  • Tickets: R1,000–R2,500 via Ticketmaster

  • Tip: Book via official channels to avoid scams.

6. Green Day with The Offspring

  • Date: February 2, 2025

  • Venue: SunBet Arena, Time Square, Pretoria

  • Genre: Punk Rock

  • Details: Green Day makes their South African debut with anthems like “American Idiot,” joined by The Offspring and Fokofpolisiekar.

  • Tickets: R900–R2,200 via Ticketmaster

  • Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for this high-energy show.

See also  Cipc in Johannesburg (2025)

7. Cigarettes After Sex

  • Date: March 16, 2025

  • Venue: Marks Park Sports Club, Johannesburg

  • Genre: Dream Pop, Indie

  • Details: The band brings their cinematic sound and album X’s to Johannesburg for an evocative performance.

  • Tickets: R600–R1,800 via Webtickets

  • Tip: Arrive early for a good spot at this outdoor venue.

8. Back to the City Festival

  • Date: April 27, 2025

  • Venue: Mary FitzGerald Square, Johannesburg CBD

  • Genre: Hip-Hop

  • Details: Africa’s biggest hip-hop festival features over 100 artists, including Cassper Nyovest and K.O.

  • Tickets: R250–R800 via Quicket

  • Tip: Bring cash for food stalls and merchandise.

9. Standard Bank Joy of Jazz

  • Date: September 26–27, 2025

  • Venue: Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg

  • Genre: Jazz

  • Details: Celebrating 26 years, this premier jazz festival showcases local and international acts.

  • Tickets: R700–R2,000 via Webtickets

  • Tip: Book a weekend pass for the full experience.

10. Fusion Festival

  • Date: May 17, 2025

  • Venue: To be announced, Johannesburg

  • Genre: Amapiano, Afro-Jazz, Hip-Hop

  • Details: Features fusions like Kamo Mphela with Sipho Hot Stix and Sjava with Mathew Mole.

  • Tickets: R500–R1,500 via Quicket

  • Tip: Check the lineup for your favorite artists.

11. Ladysmith Black Mambazo

  • Date: May 1–4, 2025

  • Venue: Teatro Montecasino, Johannesburg

  • Genre: Isicathamiya, World Music

  • Details: The Grammy-winning group performs their soulful harmonies.

  • Tickets: R400–R1,200 via Ticketmaster

  • Tip: This intimate venue sells out fast.

12. Ultra South Africa – Johannesburg

  • Date: March 1, 2025

  • Venue: Nasrec Expo Centre, Johannesburg

  • Genre: EDM

  • Details: The world’s biggest EDM festival returns with top DJs like Martin Garrix.

  • Tickets: R800–R2,500 via Webtickets

  • Tip: Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen for this outdoor event.

13. Jeremy Loops

  • Date: May 17, 2025

  • Venue: Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden, Johannesburg

  • Genre: Folk, Pop

  • Details: The South African star performs hits like “Down South” in a scenic setting.

  • Tickets: R300–R900 via Quicket

  • Tip: Bring a picnic blanket for this outdoor gig.

14. Gauteng Guitar Quartet

  • Date: July 27, 2025

  • Venue: Northwards House, Johannesburg

  • Genre: Classical

  • Details: A premier classical guitar ensemble delivers an enchanting performance.

  • Tickets: R200–R600 via Chamber Music Collective

  • Tip: Ideal for classical music enthusiasts seeking an intimate setting.

15. Pangea String Quartet

  • Date: August 3, 2025

  • Venue: Shed & Silo, Benoni (near Johannesburg)

  • Genre: Classical

  • Details: Blends timeless masterpieces with contemporary works.

  • Tickets: R250–R700 via Chamber Music Collective

  • Tip: Book early for this small venue.

See also  Top 30 Middle Class Suburb in Johannesburg (2025)

16. Bongeziwe Mabandla

  • Date: April 5, 2025

  • Venue: The Dome, Johannesburg

  • Genre: Afro-Folk, Soul

  • Details: The local star delivers soulful performances of songs like “Ndokulandela.”

  • Tickets: R350–R1,000 via Webtickets

  • Tip: Arrive early to explore the venue’s food options.

17. Cotton Fest 2025

  • Date: February 8, 2025

  • Venue: To be announced, Johannesburg

  • Genre: Hip-Hop, Amapiano

  • Details: A vibrant festival celebrating South African youth culture with top local acts.

  • Tickets: R400–R1,200 via Quicket

  • Tip: Follow social media for lineup announcements.

18. Wendy Moten

  • Date: June 14, 2025

  • Venue: Carnival City, Big Top Arena, Johannesburg

  • Genre: Soul, R&B

  • Details: The American soul singer brings her powerful vocals to Johannesburg.

  • Tickets: R500–R1,500 via Ticketmaster

  • Tip: Check for VIP packages for a premium experience.

19. Selaelo Selota

  • Date: August 23, 2025

  • Venue: Emperors Palace, Johannesburg

  • Genre: Jazz, Afro-Pop

  • Details: The South African jazz icon performs hits like “Thrrr…Phhaa!”

  • Tickets: R300–R900 via Webtickets

  • Tip: Perfect for a relaxed evening of live music.

20. Mzansi Motor Fest

  • Date: November 15, 2025

  • Venue: To be announced, Johannesburg

  • Genre: Various (Live Music with Car Culture)

  • Details: Combines live music with South Africa’s car culture, featuring local bands.

  • Tickets: R200–R800 via Quicket

  • Tip: Bring sunglasses and comfortable clothing for this daytime event.

Why Johannesburg’s Concert Scene Thrives

Johannesburg’s rich cultural diversity and history as a music hub make it a prime destination for concerts. From the legacy of The Mahotella Queens to modern stars like Troye Sivan, the city fosters a vibrant music scene. Venues like FNB Stadium, which hosted Beyoncé and Jay-Z for the Global Citizen Festival, and the intimate Teatro Montecasino cater to varied tastes. In 2024, Johannesburg welcomed over 47 concerts and festivals, a trend continuing into 2025 with events like Ultra South Africa and Joy of Jazz.

How to Plan Your Concert Experience

To make the most of these concerts, follow these tips:

  1. Book Tickets Early: Popular shows like Tems and Sting sell out fast. Use trusted platforms like Ticketmaster (ticketmaster.co.za), Webtickets (webtickets.co.za), or Quicket (quicket.co.za).

  2. Verify Dates and Venues: Check official websites or Bandsintown for updates, as schedules may change.

  3. Plan Transport: Johannesburg traffic can be heavy. Use Gautrain for venues like Sandton Convention Centre or arrange safe rides for late-night events.

  4. Check Venue Rules: Some venues, like FNB Stadium, prohibit large bags or outside food. Review policies in advance.

  5. Stay Hydrated: Outdoor festivals like Ultra South Africa require sunscreen and water, especially in summer.

  6. Explore VIP Options: For artists like Andrea Bocelli, VIP tickets offer premium seating and perks.

See also  Tombstone Prices in Johannesburg (2025)

Where to Buy Tickets Safely

Avoid ticket scams by purchasing from reputable platforms:

  • Ticketmaster: Ideal for international acts like Robbie Williams.

  • Webtickets: Available at Pick n Pay stores for cash purchases.

  • Quicket: Great for local festivals like Back to the City.

  • Computicket: Offers tickets for classical concerts and theatre.

Always verify ticket authenticity and avoid third-party resellers advertising on social media.

Venues to Know in Johannesburg

Johannesburg’s concert venues enhance the live music experience:

  • FNB Stadium: Hosts mega-concerts with capacities up to 94,000.

  • The Dome: A versatile venue for mid-sized shows like Tems.

  • SunBet Arena, Time Square: Popular for international acts, located in Pretoria but accessible from Johannesburg.

  • Sandton Convention Centre: Home to Joy of Jazz, offering a sophisticated setting.

  • Teatro Montecasino: Intimate theatre for performances like Ladysmith Black Mambazo.

  • Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden: Scenic outdoor venue for artists like Jeremy Loops.

Tips for International Visitors

If you’re visiting Johannesburg for a concert:

  • Arrive via O.R. Tambo International Airport: Use Gautrain, car hire, or shuttles to reach the city.

  • Stay Safe: Stick to reputable transport and avoid unofficial taxis.

  • Explore Johannesburg: Visit the Apartheid Museum or Maboneng Precinct between concerts.

  • Currency: Most vendors accept cards, but carry some ZAR for smaller stalls.

FAQs About Concerts in Johannesburg

When is the best time to attend concerts in Johannesburg?

Summer (November–March) hosts major outdoor festivals like Ultra South Africa, while indoor concerts occur year-round.

How can I find last-minute concert tickets?

Check Bandsintown or Songkick for real-time updates and ticket availability.

Are Johannesburg concert venues safe?

Major venues like FNB Stadium and The Dome have security measures. Stick to well-lit areas and official transport.

Can I buy concert tickets at the venue?

Some venues offer on-site sales, but pre-booking online is recommended to secure spots.

What’s the best way to stay updated on new concerts?

Follow platforms like Songkick, Bandsintown, or What’s On in Joburg for announcements.

Conclusion

Johannesburg’s 2025 concert lineup promises an exhilarating mix of global and local talent, from Tems’ Afrobeat rhythms to Andrea Bocelli’s classical grandeur. With world-class venues and a thriving music culture, the city offers something for every music lover. Plan ahead, book tickets from trusted sources, and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Johannesburg’s live music scene. Stay updated via official ticketing platforms and enjoy the unforgettable experiences awaiting you in the City of Gold.