For the first time ever, the platform will feature two headliners on one stage, as Sun-El Musician and Dlala Thukzin come together for a genre-blending performance in Johannesburg. Set to take place on 13 June at Montecasino, the 2026 edition titled Afro House, Our Home will see both artists’ catalogues reimagined with a full symphonic orchestra.
Leading the orchestral direction is Chad Hendricks, who will bring the two distinct sounds into one cohesive live experience. This marks a shift for Red Bull Symphonic, which has traditionally focused on a single headline act, making this year’s format a defining moment for the series in South Africa.
Celebrating the Roots of House Music
Following last year’s amapiano-led edition, the focus now turns to house music and its influence on South Africa’s sound. From kwaito and gqom to amapiano and the emerging 3-step wave, the 2026 show looks at how house music has shaped and continues to evolve the country’s musical identity. By bringing Sun-El Musician and Dlala Thukzin together, the show bridges different eras and interpretations of the genre.
Two Sounds, One Stage
Sun-El Musician has built a reputation for creating deeply emotive and globally recognised house music. His debut album Africa to the World reached Apple Music’s Top 200 Electronic Albums worldwide, while tracks like Akanamali and Ubomi Abumanga have become defining records in South African music.
“I’m happy to be part of this year’s Red Bull Symphonic. It’s always special to be in spaces that truly celebrate the music. It feels like the right space for where I am right now and I’m looking forward to sharing something real for the people to feel,” he said.
On the other end of the spectrum, Dlala Thukzin brings high-energy, genre-fusing production rooted in gqom and Durban’s club culture. With hundreds of millions of streams and a reputation as one of the country’s most electrifying performers, his inclusion adds a different kind of intensity to the show.
“It’s very inspiring to be a part of this year’s Red Bull Symphonic. Sun El and I have created beautiful music respectively and coming together to produce this show is quite exciting. We aim to put up a great show for everyone,” he shared.
Orchestral Direction Meets Street Sound
At the centre of it all is Chad Hendricks, whose ability to move between classical and contemporary music makes him a natural fit for the production.
“Red Bull Symphonic brings together musical worlds that I simultaneously live in. I can’t wait to create something that is uniquely and proudly South African,” he said.
Event Details
Date: 13 June 2026
Venue: Montecasino, Johannesburg
Doors Open: 16:00
Show Starts: 18:00
With its bold format and genre-spanning lineup, Red Bull Symphonic 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most important live music moments of the year.