KwaZulu-Natal’s musical talent will take centre stage this Heritage Day when Old Mutual Music at the Lake closes its 2026 season with a powerful celebration of homegrown sounds.
The concert will take place on Thursday, 24 September, at the Durban Botanic Gardens, with award-winning rapper Sjava headlining the line-up alongside Afro-house star Simmy and KwaMashu-born duo Q Twins.
Music lovers can expect a special performance from Sjava, who will take to the stage with a full six-piece band, bringing his signature storytelling, powerful lyrics and distinctly isiZulu sound to the Gardens.
The line-up is a celebration of KwaZulu-Natal talent, with all three acts having strong roots in the province and playing a role in shaping South Africa’s contemporary music scene.
Sjava’s poetic storytelling draws heavily on isiZulu culture and tradition, while Simmy’s soulful Afro-house sound reflects her Tugela Ferry roots. The Q Twins, known for their distinctive harmonies, bring the musical flavour of KwaMashu to the stage.
With Heritage Day celebrating South Africa’s languages, traditions and diverse cultural identity, the concert promises more than just a day of entertainment.
It will be an opportunity for music lovers to celebrate where they come from while enjoying some of the province’s finest musical exports.
“Heritage Day gives us a meaningful opportunity to celebrate the people, places, stories and traditions that shape who we are,” said Molise Moloi, Mass and Foundation Cluster Marketing Executive at Old Mutual.
“At Old Mutual, we believe in creating experiences that bring people together. This concert celebrates the incredible talent and cultural richness that KwaZulu-Natal has given South Africa and the world.”
Moloi said the company was proud to bring a 100% KZN-born line-up to the Durban Botanic Gardens, creating a space where communities could connect and celebrate through music while supporting the important work of the Gardens.
Old Mutual Music at the Lake has become a popular fixture on Durban’s entertainment calendar, bringing South African artists to the scenic Botanic Gardens and creating an outdoor experience for families, friends and music lovers.
This Heritage Day, the Gardens will come alive with live music, KZN pride and a celebration of the sounds that continue to put the province on the national music map.
With Sjava, Simmy and Q Twins on one stage, music lovers can expect a proudly KZN soundtrack to Heritage Day.
