MARIAH THE SCIENTIST, SPECIAL GUEST: KELVIN MOMO, SASHA KEABLE, SHEKHINAH, LANGA MAVUS, MANANA, NANETTE, KUJENGA, LIA BUTLER, XOWIÈ, STRICTLY SOUL HOUR FEAT. AKIO AND YANDANI
WAV Festival, the bold new cultural experience presented by Afro Nation, today announces the second wave of artists joining its inaugural edition in Cape Town on 2nd January 2026. Following the festival’s widely celebrated initial announcement, WAV now welcomes a new cohort of soulful storytellers and genre-defining voices who embody its vision for the future of R&B, soul and African diasporic sound.
Leading today’s additions is British-Colombian artist Sasha Keable, a singular voice in contemporary soul whose diaristic songwriting and atmospheric vocals have earned her a devoted global following. Known for collaborations with the likes of Disclosure and Jorja Smith, Sasha brings a deeply personal, emotionally resonant perspective to the WAV stage, making her appearance one of the festival’s most anticipated moments.
Joining her is South African luminary Langa Mavuso, a beloved figure in modern soul celebrated for his stirring vocals, poetic lyricism and profound emotional presence. His performances, marked by vulnerability and richness, promise to offer WAV audiences an unforgettable journey into South Africa’s contemporary musical heart.
Also announced today is rising South African talent Lia Butler, whose blend of soulful complexity and modern sonic edge positions her as one of the country’s most intriguing new voices. Her performances are known for their texture, intimacy and creative ambition. She is joined by the captivating Xowiè, an artist rapidly gaining acclaim for her delicate vocal tone, fluid expression and ability to move seamlessly between soul, R&B and alternative soundscapes. Together, their contributions deepen WAV’s commitment to championing breakthrough artists shaping the sound of tomorrow.
These new additions join the previously announced Mariah the Scientist and Kelvin Momo, each representing a different facet of the festival’s vision: rooted in soul, grounded in community and reaching boldly toward the future.
WAV Festival is designed for a global community of music lovers, cultural explorers and style-conscious audiences who seek meaningful experiences that blend sound, place and identity. Set against Cape Town’s iconic natural landscape, the festival offers an immersive celebration that connects international and local talent on one stage, reimagining how culture is experienced, shared and elevated on the African continent.
Tickets for WAV Festival are moving at unprecedented speed. Golden Circle passes are officially sold out, with General Access already 90% sold out as excitement builds for the festival’s landmark debut in Cape Town. In response to the overwhelming demand, Afro Nation will soon unveil the limited Africa House VIP Upgrade - an exclusive elevated experience inspired by Afro Nation’s premium hospitality offerings across the globe. Africa House represents the pinnacle of comfort and cultural luxury at the festival, bringing together art, music, community and high-end service in a dedicated space designed to celebrate the continent’s creative excellence. More details on the upgrade will be announced soon.
Born from a collaboration between The Malachite Group and Africa Creative Agency, WAV Festival draws on decades of expertise in culture, talent and transformative experiences. The Malachite Group are the creative minds behind groundbreaking festival concepts such as Afro Nation, which has taken place in Portugal, Miami, Detroit and Ghana. Together with ACA’s deep roots in African talent management and cultural strategy, WAV is built with local insight and global ambition.
Get your tickets here: https://www.wavfestival.com/