Jerk x Jollof: Cape Town Takeover wasn’t just a New Year’s celebration; it was a cultural milestone, cementing its place as a global force in spotlighting Afro-Caribbean excellence
Hosted at the breathtaking Ostrich Ranch on January 1st, the event marked a powerful convergence of music, food and community, drawing over 2,000 attendees to experience a night that will go down in history.
What began as a niche concept, melding the Afro-Caribbean flavors of jerk and jollof into a singular, celebratory experience – has now evolved into a global movement, uniting diasporic communities across continents. This Cape Town edition presented by Love Renaissance (LVRN), Spotify Frequency, Johnnie Walker Blonde, Liqui Fruit, Don Julio, and MTV Base, was a testament to Jerk x Jollof’s explosive growth and influence.
South Africa, with its rich cultural tapestry and globally revered music scene, proved to be the perfect stage for this groundbreaking celebration. The country has become a powerhouse for exporting cutting-edge sounds, with genres like Amapiano captivating the world. The event paid homage to this influence by featuring trailblazing South African artists Uncle Waffles, DBN Gogo and TxC, who dominated the Fly Radio Takeover with electrifying sets. The main stage amplified the energy with powerhouse performances by SPINALL, 2wobunnies and Broke Boys, blending global Afrobeats and Afro-Caribbean sounds into a harmonious symphony. The sultry Strictly Soul R&B Hour, headlined by Akio, added a melodic depth to the evening, while rising star Odeal delivered a show-stopping finale that left the crowd in awe.
Yet, Jerk x Jollof is more than music—it’s a celebration of identity and connection. Guests indulged in the culinary mastery of Caribbean jerk and West African jollof, complemented by expertly crafted cocktails, creating a sensory experience that honored the heritage and flavors of the diaspora. Against the stunning South African night sky, the event offered a safe, authentic space for people to celebrate shared roots while forging new connections.
This Cape Town edition signified a pivotal moment for Jerk x Jollof, not just as an event but as a movement. It highlighted the rising global demand for spaces that amplify Afro-Caribbean culture and demonstrated South Africa’s growing role as a cultural hub connecting Africa to the world. With its dynamic music scene and deep-rooted traditions, the country served as a powerful reminder of the global influence of African artistry.
