Zakes Bantwini Unveils Final Lineup for Mayonie Open Air: The Evolution of Afrohouse
Music powerhouse Zakes Bantwini has revealed the full lineup for Mayonie Open Air: The Evolution of Afrohouse, taking place on Sunday, 30 November 2025, at Constitution Hill in Johannesburg. Presented by Mayonie Productions, the festival celebrates African electronic music by bringing together legends, innovators, and emerging Afrohouse and Afrotech artists. The lineup features Liquideep, DJ Kent, Msaki, Mörda, Caiiro, Da Capo, Enoo Napa, Maline Aura, Drega, BlaqRhythm, Skye Wanda, TekniQ, BokkieUlt, Marco Pex, Da Africa Deep, Samba, and Zakes Bantwini. Each artist represents a chapter in Afrohouse’s evolution, from its soulful beginnings to futuristic reinventions.
This year’s curation goes beyond assembling big names. It traces Afrohouse’s journey from deep soul and jazz influences to the global dance sound shaping festivals worldwide. Liquideep’s smooth grooves, Msaki’s spiritual voice, and Da Capo’s sonic innovation stand alongside the next wave of talent like Maline Aura and Drega, showcasing a genre in constant motion. Mbali Zuma, Show Runner for Mayonie Open Air, said the lineup was designed as a bridge between eras. “We wanted the lineup to feel like a conversation between generations — the legends who defined the sound and the new creators who are reimagining it. Afrohouse has always been about community, rhythm, and healing, and this lineup captures that full circle moment,” she said.
Lucky Mbeta, A&R at Mayonie Productions, emphasized the focus on artistic impact. “We didn’t just think of popularity, we thought of influence. Every artist on this bill contributes something unique to the ecosystem of Afrohouse and Afrotech. It’s a showcase of where the genre has been and where it’s going,” he said. For emerging stars like Maline Aura and Drega, being part of the lineup is both symbolic and empowering. Maline Aura said, “To share the stage with artists I grew up admiring is surreal. It’s a reminder that the work we’re doing is part of something bigger. We’re carrying forward a legacy.” Drega added, “Zakes and the Mayonie team are giving new artists a real platform, not just a slot. Performing alongside these icons means our sound is being recognised, and that’s powerful.”
For Zakes Bantwini, Mayonie Open Air is an extension of his mission to push Afrohouse and Afrotech beyond borders. “Mayonie Open Air is the embodiment of our philosophy, that Africa’s sound is global, its roots are deep, and its future is limitless,” he said. Through Mayonie Productions, he aims to position the label as Africa’s leading force in electronic music by fostering collaboration, mentorship, and creative growth. The festival will transform Constitution Hill into a hub of rhythm, art, and connection. The venue’s historical significance adds depth to the event, celebrating freedom, resilience, and creativity through music.
Tickets for Mayonie Open Air: The Evolution of Afrohouse are available now on Howler: https://www.howler.co.za/events/mayonie-open-air-7c24. Fans can expect an unforgettable experience blending music, culture, and unity, marking another milestone in Zakes Bantwini’s vision for the global rise of Afrohouse.
