Ferré Gola to Make Johannesburg Debut with Live Acoustic Show in May

South African music fans can look forward to a major live performance as celebrated Congolese artist Ferré Gola prepares for his first-ever concert in Johannesburg. The event is scheduled for Saturday, 16 May 2026 at the Lyric Theatre in Gold Reef City, with the show starting at 6pm. Known across Africa and internationally as “Le Padre”, Ferré Gola has built a long-standing career defined by his powerful vocals, emotional storytelling, and deep roots in rumba and soukous music.

This upcoming performance is being positioned as more than just a concert, with organisers describing it as a significant cultural moment that highlights African musical excellence. The show will feature an acoustic set, giving audiences a more intimate experience of some of his most popular songs, delivered with the style and passion that have made him a household name.

Ferré Gola’s reputation as a world-class performer has recently been reinforced by his sold-out show at the Accor Arena in Paris, demonstrating his global appeal and strong fan base beyond the African continent. His Johannesburg debut is expected to attract attendees not only from across South Africa but also from neighbouring countries in the Southern African region.

Event promoter Bob Richard Makandalele emphasised the importance of the occasion, noting that Ferré Gola’s arrival in Johannesburg has been long anticipated. He described the concert as a celebration of African talent and cultural pride. Tickets are available through Webticket, and fans are encouraged to secure their seats early due to high expected demand. Overall, the event is shaping up to be one of the standout live music highlights of the season in South Africa.