Grammy Winner Lalah Hathaway to Headline Inaugural Montreux Jazz Festival in Franschhoek

Grammy-winning American singer Lalah Hathaway is set to perform in South Africa at the inaugural Montreux Jazz Festival Franschhoek from 27 to 29 March 2026. She will be joined by acclaimed pianist and producer Robert Glasper, as well as special guest Bilal, promising an extraordinary live collaboration. The festival, which originated in Switzerland, is making its African debut in the scenic Franschhoek Valley, bringing together nearly 40 global icons, African innovators, and emerging talents for a weekend of world-class music, cultural experiences, and fine wine.

The lineup also features internationally recognised artists such as singer-songwriter Matt Hansen and Armenian pianist Tigran Hamasyan. Hansen will perform on the Arches Stage, delivering contemporary jazz for a younger audience, while Hamasyan will showcase his genre-defying piano compositions in the Jazz Village stage, housed in a historic church. The festival also highlights local talent, including 17-year-old drummer Caleb Dlamini and his ensemble, Caleb Dlamini & Friends, as well as 13-year-old saxophonist Graigan Papier, who will appear in Kesivan Naidoo’s amaBig Band Experience.

Over the weekend, performances will be staged across multiple venues in the Cape Winelands, blending live music, DJs, vinyl selectors, and immersive cultural offerings. Other artists on the programme include Ezra Collective, Thandiswa Mazwai, Stacey Kent, DJ Zinhle, Msaki, Jesse Clegg, Moonchild Sanelly, Vusi Mahlasela, and Madala Kunene, ensuring a rich mix of international and local jazz talent.