There has to be something about Africa that attracts this flurry of the best international artists performing in Africa.
In 2026, iShowSpeed already toured not less than 20 African countries. South Africa hosted Wale and Mariah the Scientist at the Wav Festival that took place in Cape Town in January. Gunna’s Wun World Tour also made stops in Cape Town on January 3 and Johannesburg on January 10.
Still, this wave is not over in 2026. These 6 international music acts are either confirmed or expected to tour in different African countries this year. 
DID YOU MISS: It’s a Wrap! iShowSpeed Africa Tour Is Over… But Something Changed
6 International Artists Performing in Africa in 2026
1. Doja Cat — Move Afrika 2026 (March)
For the first time in her career, Grammy winner Doja Cat will headline the Move Afrika tour in Kigali (March 17) and Pretoria (March 20).
“This isn’t just a tour, it’s a movement that creates jobs and opportunities. I’m proud to be part of something that celebrates African creativity,” she said. Doja Cat also referenced her South African roots.
Beyond music, Move Afrika creates jobs across local production ecosystems with over 2,500 roles so far. Their goal is to position Africa at the center of global touring circuits.
2. Bryan Adams — Roll With The Punches Tour (April)
With a career spanning four decades and No.1 hits in over 40 countries, Adams remains one of the most consistent live performers in global music. The rock icon now brings his Roll With The Punches tour to Cape Town (April 21), Pretoria (April 25), and Durban (April 28).
3. Boyz II Men — South Africa Tour (May)
The four-time Grammy-winning R&B legends will perform in Cape Town (May 27) and Pretoria (May 29–30). With over 60 million records sold and classics like ‘End of the Road,’ expect a nostalgia-packed arena experience.
4. J. Cole — The Fall-Off Tour (December)
J. Cole’s first global headline run in nearly a decade concludes at FNB Stadium, Johannesburg, on December 12, 2026. This stop is currently the only African stop on his 50+ date tour. If you’re a fan, this is the moment to “love yourz.”
5. Drake — Anita Max Win Tour (Expected)
Reports suggest Drake’s 2026 world tour includes Lagos and Johannesburg, with May 4 listed for South Africa. While venue details remain pending, insiders say it could be one of the continent’s biggest tours of the year, and undoubtedly so.
6. Chris Brown — Joint Tour with Davido (Expected)
Davido confirmed a joint EP with Chris Brown ahead of a 2026 Europe and Africa tour. With over 20 recorded collaborations and a Grammy-nominated track (“Sensational”), this partnership could redefine cross-continental touring.
Final Stop
With more international artists performing in Africa this year, it’s clear that the continent is no longer a “bonus stop.” We are fast growing a central touring market. This lineup of legacy rock stars and rap heavyweights means 2026 is set to be a landmark year for live music on the continent.
About The Author
Keep Up to Date with the Most Important News
