WeeklySA_AdminCONTEMPORARY: Ty Dolla $ign and British singer KWN will headline WAV Festival’s January 2027 return as the event expands from Cape Town to Gauteng…
By Priscilla Malinga
WAV Festival will expand to Pretoria for its second edition in January 2027, with American singer, songwriter and producer Ty Dolla $ign and British R&B artist KWN headlining both its Cape Town and Gauteng events.
Presented by Africa Creative Agency (ACA), the festival opens in Cape Town on January 2, before moving to Pretoria’s SunBet Arena on January 3.The expansion follows WAV’s Cape Town debut earlier this year and gives Gauteng audiences an opportunity to experience the festival closer to home.
Ty Dolla $ign brings more than a decade of experience spanning R&B, hip-hop and pop.
Known for his extensive collaborations as well as his own releases, he joins a programme that aims to showcase the changing sound of contemporary R&B.
KWN represents a newer generation of the genre. The British singer has attracted attention for her emotionally expressive music and distinctive approach to contemporary R&B.
Together, the headline acts reflect WAV’s ambition to explore the genre’s evolution through different artists, influences and cultures.
ACA chief executive Collin Gayle said the move to Pretoria was intended to bring the festival to a wider audience.
He described the inclusion of Ty Dolla $ign and KWN as a reflection of the current direction of R&B.
Beyond its musical programme, WAV aims to bring together fashion and culture, while creating space for African artists and influences within an international music setting.
The 2027 edition will also feature a partnership with Bernini, including a dedicated Bernini Golden Circle experience at both events.
With concerts on consecutive days, the festival will maintain its Cape Town presence while extending its reach into Gauteng during the first weekend of the new year.
Ticket sales were scheduled to open on October 6, with Cape Town bookings through Howler and Pretoria bookings through Webtickets.
Further announcements and updates will be shared on the festival’s Instagram and TikTok accounts, @wav.festival.
