Red Bull Symphonic returns this June with a landmark announcement: Kelvin Momo will headline the 2025 edition of the genre-defying experience, accompanied by none other than Adam Howard and the Egoli Symphonic Orchestra. Taking place over two nights – 06 and 07 June – at The Teatro, Montecasino, this year’s performance reimagines Amapiano’s deepest pulses through sweeping orchestral arrangements, bridging the sound of the streets with the grandeur of the symphony.
👇🏾 Watch the Kelvin Momo Red Bull Symphonic Full Performance On YouTube 👇🏾
Kelvin Momo, widely regarded as one of Amapiano’s most influential producers, will take centre stage to explore the genre’s journey, evolution, and future. Known for his signature private school Amapiano, Momo’s sound stirs emotion and transcends dance floors. This June, it will be elevated to symphonic heights in a collaboration that redefines what South African music can be.
Commenting on having an orchestra interpret his songs Kelvin Momo said, “It’s such an incredible honour to headline this year’s Red Bull Symphonic. As a producer, my passion lies in pushing boundaries, and seeing my sound, private school amapiano, come to life with an orchestra is one for the history books.”
And leading the orchestra is a maestro whose career is just as genre-bending. Adam Howard, a classical virtuoso, jazz artist, and prolific music director, has spent over two decades blurring musical lines in South Africa. From Kwaito legends like Brenda Fassie and TKZee to international icons such as Alicia Keys and Hugh Masekela, Howard’s horn has played it all. Adam was a part of the orchestra in last year’s Red Bull Symphonic, now with the baton in hand, he’ll bring back the Yanos to the symphonic stage.
Performing under Howard’s direction, the Egoli Symphonic Orchestra represents a new vision for orchestral music in South Africa, one that breaks boundaries and invites collaboration. Formed to defy genre and expectation, the ensemble is composed of top-tier musicians whose versatility and energy embody the spirit of this year’s Red Bull Symphonic.
This isn’t just a concert. It’s a cultural reset. An orchestrated celebration of heritage, innovation, and the sonic threads that tie South Africa together.
MORE NEWS UPDATES
24 April 2025: Following a high demand that saw tickets sell out in just a few hours, Red Bull is giving the people what they want, and adding a third day for the highly anticipated Red Bull Symphonic: Kelvin Momo with Adam Howard and the Egoli Symphonic Orchestra.
Red Bull Symphonic: Amapiano, The Next Chapter
Date: 06 – 08 June 2025
Venue: The Teatro, Montecasino
For additional information and to purchase tickets, go to redbull.com/za-en/events/red-bull-symphonic-johannesburg
I’ve never had much luck with getting Symphonic tickets. At the first one last year (headlined by Kabza) I missed out on the first batch of tickets on sale. Thankfully, I managed to grab a ticket from the second batch for night two thank God to the high demand, but it was a struggle. I had two colleagues on standby and my friend (who I was going with) trying from their side too. The anxiety was real, but we made it through. This year? Pretty much the same story.
I didn’t want to rely on media accreditation (especially after getting ghosted last year and this year lol), so I went the safest route again by buying. After the initial announcement, I tried to get a ticket within budget — no luck. Thankfully, they added a third date due to very high demand. I was ready and made sure I had no meetings to desrupt me. I was already on the website an hour before tickets opened — phone, laptop (with both the Red Bull and Computicket tabs open), even a second screen. Proper war mode. Tickets opened… and the website crashed. It was even worse than the Kabza ticket drama. I tried until I just gave up. Told myself, “If the universe wants me to be there, I’ll be there.” They added another date, but I was so heartbroken by the experience, I didn’t even bother trying.
Fast forward to the afternoon of the opening night of Kelvin Momo’s Symphinic I get a DM from Nombulelo: “My sister, answer there by the green app please” There it was: “Ausi. I have a ticket. Are you available tonight for the Symphonic? Answer quick fast when you get this.” Yoh! The depression that started from the day before disappeared immediately. I couldn’t even focus at work — all I could think about was what I was going to wear and whether I had time to do my nails. I asked to leave early, went to the salon, and got home to get ready. My only worry now? Whether the ticket would actually work.
Got there and the Momozi’s (Kelvin Momo fans) were already in line. The line moved smoothly, but my anxiety came back when it was time to scan my ticket. It didn’t was to open where I usually save my event tickets, so now I’m scrambling through WhatsApp while the line’s moving fast. God was definitely playing with me. Finally found it — deep breath — and I could relax.
First stop: the bar. I needed a drink. The queue was slow, and when I finally got to the front, the lady poured my beer like it owed her money — so rough! One of the girls next to me even said I should report it. I let it go, but she kept apologising coz she could see the hurt in my eyes. Beer lovers understand the pain of not getting the perfect pour! Got my drink, walked around, and stopped by the merch shop. Loved that they had one this year. I got a bucket hat (within budget!) and they threw in a free badge. I made my way to my entrance and waited for the doors to open. This year’s wait felt like being at groove — people were vibing, singing along to the piano hits. Last year they had violinists to set the mood, which was a beautiful touch. Before going in, I hit the ladies and tried the bar again. The line wasn’t moving, so I just went in with my sparkling water. My seat was perfectly centered — ideal for sound — even if it wasn’t right in front like I prefer. I was happy.
The show started after the host’s intro and wow! The instruments? So good I actually cried. Kelvin Momo was amazing. He was so into it, singing along, vibing with the orchestra and the artists. It felt like he was hearing them for the first time too. I left during Song Cry — not because I needed the bathroom, but because that song triggered all my ticket stress. My heart was full, and I wanted to leave on that high note.
Last updated: 22 July 2025
Leave a Reply