International rappers heading for SA

Phase one of the line-up, recently announced at a press event at Hard Rock Café, included four-time Grammy Award-winning act Macklemore and Ryan Lewis, who will headline the Diamond Fields main stage on September 27.

American hip-hop recording artist, songwriter and record producer J Cole was also announced as headline act. Cole first received recognition in 2007, following the release of his debut mixtape The Come Up. Cole signed to Jay-Z’s record label Roc Nation in 2009. American rapper Kid Ink was the third international act announced to perform at the Diamond Fields main stage.

Several African acts were also announced as part of this first phase announcement, including Karen Zoid, Tailor, Desmond & the Tutus, Shortstraw, Kwesta, Samuel Miller, Rouge, The Dollfins, David & Goliath, New Academics, Lacey May, Beatenberg, Gang of Instrumentals and more.

“It’s an exciting moment for us. The first talent announcement is the launch of a unique event that no music lover should miss out on. This much incredible talent over three glorious spring days in the most glorious African setting is more than worth leaving home for,” says Sony Music Entertainment Africa’s managing director Sean Watson.