The New Year is set to open on a high note for R&B lovers in Johannesburg and Pretoria. Mariah the Scientist, the platinum-selling singer-songwriter whose work continues to shape contemporary R&B, will perform live at SunBet Arena in Pretoria on Saturday, 3 January 2026.
The Atlanta-born artist has built a dedicated global following through her distinctive vocals and emotionally charged storytelling. Her latest album, HEARTS SOLD SEPARATELY, has already become a fan favourite, and her presence on Instagram, where she has more than 3 million followers, speaks to her influence across music and culture. Her South African show, presented by Vertex Events, is expected to offer a carefully curated experience that highlights both her new material and the music that first captured the hearts of listeners worldwide.
Mariah is known for songs like Burning Blue, Is It a Crime, Spread Thin, Reminders, and 2 You. Each track carries her signature blend of vulnerability and confidence, and fans can expect a performance shaped by that same emotional intensity.
The evening will also feature a strong supporting lineup. Hip-Hop favourite A-Reece will bring his sharp lyricism to the stage, joined by Lordkez, whose single Aweh has become a breakout anthem. R&B and soul singer Manana, widely appreciated for his smooth vocals and heartfelt writing, completes the lineup. Together, they set the tone for a night that celebrates both established talent and rising voices within the local scene.
Vertex Events Executive Director Thato Segaole says the anticipation for Mariah’s show has been building for months. “JHB and PTA people asked for her, we heard you and Mariah the Scientist agreed. We are excited to bring another impactful international act. Conversations with her team have been ongoing since earlier in the year, and we are thrilled to see it all come together. We are preparing a special event to start the New Year with.”
With a growing footprint in South Africa’s live entertainment landscape, Vertex Events continues to position itself as a connector of global and local artistry. Mariah’s one-night-only performance promises to be one of the standout music moments of early 2026.