6lack on stage. In the City. Picture: supplied
In The City music festival at Montecasino’s Outdoor Events Arena on Sunday proved to be a spectacular fusion of spring energy and musical talent.
The event, set against the backdrop of warm weather and vibrant spring colours, transformed one side of Montecasino into a pulsating hub of entertainment, with attendees’ bright outfits and beaming smiles perfectly complementing the festive atmosphere.
Ayra Starr, the Nigerian Afro-pop sensation, set the stage ablaze with her dynamic performance.
The young artist had the crowd moving to her hit tracks including Commas, People, Away, and the viral sensation Bloody Samaritan.
Her energetic set perfectly captured the youthful exuberance of the festival.
American R&B artist 6lack took centre stage, delivering a comprehensive showcase of his musical evolution.
His set list spanned across his albums Free 6lack, East Atlanta Love Letter, and his latest offering — Since I Have A Lover.
The audience’s enthusiasm peaked during fan favourites like Pretty Little Fears featuring J. Cole, Free, Decatur, and Prblms.
The crowd’s passionate sing-alongs testified to 6lack’s impact on the contemporary R&B landscape.
South African vocal powerhouse Lloyiso lived up to his reputation, captivating the audience with his emotive delivery and impressive range.
His performance undoubtedly contributed to the festival’s diverse musical tapestry.
In addition to his fan favourites, he treated the crowd to an unreleased song titled Higher, leaving fans desperate for its official release.
The true highlight came when Lloyiso sat down to perform, with some attendees admitting to experiencing goosebumps, overwhelmed by the sheer power and emotion in his voice.
His set was a powerful reminder of his exceptional talent and why he’s considered one of South Africa’s most promising artists.
Closing the night, Snoh Aalegra treated the audience to her signature blend of soul and R&B.
Her set included popular tracks such as Lost You, Nothing Burns Like The Cold, and Dying 4 Your Love, showcasing the depth and versatility of her discography.
Between sets, DJ Akio took command of the stage, delivering incredible performances that kept the crowd’s energy at its peak.
His sets were a testament to his skill as a performer, with his love for Beyoncé shining through in his music selections.
Akio’s ability to read the crowd and maintain the festival’s momentum between acts was a crucial element in the event’s overall success.
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Despite the overall success of the event, some attendees expressed a desire for a more intimate setting, particularly given the soulful and emotive nature of artists like 6lack, Snoh Aalegra, and Lloyiso.
The mellow, introspective quality of their music led some fans to crave a cosier atmosphere that would better suit the artists’ intimate sound.
Adding to the festival experience was an impressive array of food trucks offering a diverse selection of culinary delights.
Attendees were treated to a plethora of food options, catering to various tastes and dietary preferences.
The festival’s overall aesthetic was notably demure and cutesy, creating a charming and inviting atmosphere that complemented the spring setting.
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In The City music festival not only delivered on its promise of musical excellence but also served as a vibrant herald of spring’s arrival.
The combination of perfect weather, colourful event setup, and the infectious energy of both performers and attendees created an unforgettable experience that truly embodied the spirit of the season.
As the final notes faded into the night, it was clear that the In The City music festival had succeeded in creating a memorable celebration of music, culture, and the joy of springtime in Johannesburg, even as it left some attendees yearning for a more intimate concert experience with their favourite artists.
See some of the attendees’ fit pictures below:
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