South Africa’s vibrant music scene is built on stages both big and small and one organization has consistently been at the heart of this movement. Concerts SA, a dynamic live music development project, has been championing the growth of the live music sector in Mzansi and beyond for over a decade. Established in 2013, this programme has created performance opportunities for artists, especially in under-served areas, while promoting music mobility across southern Africa. And now, they’ve done it again.
Big news just in Concerts SA has awarded 50 Mobility Subsidies for music tours happening across South Africa and the SADC region from July to October 2025! This milestone signals a powerful comeback for the live performance industry after years of uncertainty and limited opportunities for travel and touring.
The open call drew a phenomenal response — with over 800 registrations from artists spanning every genre and province in the country. From jazz and Afro-soul to hip-hop, traditional, rock and indigenous sounds, it’s clear that South African musicians are ready to get back on the road, connect with audiences and take their craft to new spaces.
This initiative is not just about live performances, it’s about job creation, audience development, and economic stimulation within the creative sector. Funded by Jobs Fund SA and SAMRO, in partnership with Concerts SA and other leading arts organizations, the subsidies ensure that musicians can tour nationally and regionally, some even joining major partner festivals. It’s a boost for artists, sound engineers, promoters, and the communities that host these performances.
Andre Le Roux, project director, perfectly captured the moment:“The live music sector is roaring back to life — and we’re honoured to support that journey.”
Since its inception, Concerts SA has presented over 3,000 concerts, supported hundreds of musicians, and invested millions into the local music economy. Their work has reached schools, community halls, jazz clubs, and township taverns, ensuring that live music is not a privilege for the few, but an experience for all South Africans.
For those eager to see which artists secured these coveted touring subsidies, the full list is available here:
https://concertssa.co.za/concerts-sa-awards-50-mobility-subsidies/
As Imbizo Magazine, we applaud the ongoing, impactful work of Concerts SA in shaping a thriving, inclusive music scene. This is not just an investment in artists, it’s an investment in South Africa’s cultural heartbeat.
Long live live music. Long live!
My name is Rudi Mbele based in New York since 1981. I am also a music producer and a music promoter who has organized American music tours for more than 20 South African music groups. I can also help Concerts SA to book American venues for SA artists. I am also a performing artists who has performed in 20 American provinces. For my Bio, please google Rudi Mbele and also check my videos on Youtube. My cell number is +1 347 500 5664 USA.
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