Jorja Smith has been announced as the first headliner for Rocking the Daisies 2026, marking a significant moment for both the globally acclaimed artist and the festival’s evolving international footprint.
Set to take place from 2–4 October at Cloof Wine Estate, the 21st edition of the festival will also host Smith’s first-ever performance on the African continent — a long-awaited debut for an artist whose music has already resonated deeply across African audiences.
Widely recognised for her soulful voice and emotionally rich songwriting, Smith rose to prominence with her critically acclaimed debut Lost & Found (2018), followed by Falling or Flying (2023). Over the past decade, she has established herself as one of the defining voices of contemporary R&B, earning a Grammy Awards nomination for Best New Artist and winning Best British Female Artist at the Brit Awards.
Her global appeal has been further cemented through collaborations with artists spanning genres and geographies, including Drake, Kendrick Lamar, Burna Boy and Major League Djz — underscoring a career that has consistently bridged scenes and sounds.
For Rocking the Daisies, the announcement signals a continued commitment to positioning the festival as a global cultural touchpoint. Now entering its third decade, the event has grown into one of the continent’s premier music festivals, blending international headliners with homegrown talent against the backdrop of the Western Cape’s spring bloom.
View this post on Instagram
This year’s Rocking the Daisies theme, “Welcome to the Garden,” draws inspiration from the natural blooming of the Cape Daisy in Darling, framing the festival as both a seasonal and cultural moment. Beyond the music, attendees can expect the return of signature elements including curated food experiences, immersive art installations, and expanded camping offerings, alongside new activations designed to enhance the overall festival journey.
With more artists yet to be announced, Smith’s inclusion sets the tone for what is expected to be one of the festival’s most globally resonant editions to date.
