30-years of South African music comes alive at Constitutional Hill

Blending music, history, and innovations a ground-breaking celebration of South African sound.

October 2, 2024

Naziya Davids-Easthorpe 1 minute read

Back: Katleho Selaule. Front: Mahlodi Mamaregane, Shalom Godana and Nozuko Makha. Photo: Naziya Davids-Easthorpe

Constitutional Hill was transformed into a pulsating hub of beats, history, and culture on September 7 as The Road to Amapiano Festival celebrated three decades of South African music in an unforgettable way. With the iconic venue serving as both a symbol of freedom and a stage for the country’s evolving sound, the festival took attendees on a rhythmic journey through genres that have defined the nation’s soul—from kwaito’s rebellious beats to amapiano’s sleek, modern groove.

But this wasn’t just any music festival—it was a ground-breaking experience that combined the past, present, and future of South African music, offering a dual platform for live performances and a cutting-edge virtual reality (VR) experience. Whether you were soaking in the atmosphere at Constitutional Hill or tuning in from across the globe, the sounds of Afro-house, gqom, Afrotech, and amapiano pulled you into a shared moment of celebration.

In a nod to innovation, the festival gave a glimpse into the future of events with its VR integration. Fans could immerse themselves in the performances from anywhere, exploring the venue and interacting with the music in ways never before imagined. Meanwhile, on the ground, festivalgoers danced to anthems that have become part of South Africa’s cultural fabric.

What truly set this festival apart, though, was its powerful reflection of the nation’s journey. With support from Nedbank and the Arts and Culture Trust, The Road to Amapiano Festival not only showcased 30 years of music but also highlighted the ongoing investment in local talent, ensuring that the future of South African music remains as vibrant as its past.

From the rebellious spirit of kwaito to the globally infectious sound of amapiano, this festival wasn’t just a celebration—it was a love letter to South Africa’s musical legacy and its unshakable future.

Also read: Nedbank painted Constitutional Hill green