MTN Bushfire has revealed the first of many outstanding and intriguing artists for the 16th MTN Bushfire, which will take place in 2023! On the numerous festival stages from May 26–28, 2023, dozens of musicians from Africa and worldwide will play alongside superstar performers Sho Madjozi, Ibeyi, and Qibho Intalektual. MTN Bushfire’s lineup, which has its roots in Africa but is also international in scope, has always embraced the odd and discovered the diverse.

At Eswatini’s flagship international music and arts festival, all forms of creative expression — music, dance, theatre, spoken word — engage and enlighten us with potent messages and unforgettable performances.

Sho Madjozi, one of South Africa’s brightest and most daring stars, commands a stage presence that is sensed even before the first resonant bassline she drops. Her upbeat music blends languages, genres, and styles while paying homage to her Tsonga roots and enhancing it with a global sense, blending Hip Hop hooks with appealing Gqom-rooted melodies.

Lisa-Kaindé and Naomi Diaz are identical twin sisters who perform as the French musical duo Ibeyi. The duo sings in English, Yoruba, French, and Spanish. “Ibeyi” means “twins” in Yoruba. Their breathtaking parallel harmonies, essential minimalist Latin percussion, tremendous, deeply resonant bass, and electronic Neo-Soul transport listeners into a state of grace where the divine unites the separated, serving as a reminder that the true essence of grace is to bring people together.

Eswatini’s own Qibho Intalektual is a mentor, poet, musician, author, social activist and member of the arts development initiative Rooted Soulz. One of the most popular artists in Eswatini, Qibho is known for his blend of witty, thought-provoking and intelligent wordplay. His unmistakable signature style is deeply embedded in conscious Hip Hop music, reflecting honest social commentary with skillful storytelling.
 
More artists are set to be announced in the new year!