Call for applications: MTN Bushfire 2020

MTN Bushfire welcomes submissions from any artist, including upcoming acts as well as seasoned professionals exploring electro, Afropop, jazz, folk, rock, gqom, house and a range of other diverse music genres.

“MTN Bushfire is a celebration and an exploration of diverse expressions of art and culture, with music placed firmly at its heart,” festival director Jiggs Thorne said.

“Every year, the eclectic nature of the applications we receive reflects this support of diverse expression and the team will strive to find the right blend of artistry for another explosive festival experience.”

Each year's line-up comprises live acts from all over the world that share the festival’s mission, which is to celebrate creative expression while promoting social responsibility and inclusion.

The selected acts will perform for an audience on the MTN Bushfire’s four stages, which include the Main Stage, House on Fire Stage, The Barn, and FireFly Stage. 

In addition to musical performances, the festival also features host dance, art exhibitions and installations, theatre, poetry, storytelling, puppetry, film, speakers as well as themed workshops. The workshops are intended to provide local artists and creative industry players the opportunity to interact with esteemed international industry professionals.

Ranked by CNN as one of the top seven African music festivals, MTN Bushfire hosts more than 30 000 attendees from 60 countries.

Previous editions have featured Mr Eazi, Salif Keita, Moonchild Sanelly, Bokani Dyers, Sibusile Xaba, Samthing Soweto, Nakhane, Freshlyground, Elida Almeida, Kapa Dech, Timbila Muzimba, Mario Batkovic, Poni Hoax and The Grammars, among many others.

Interested artists can apply here.

The application deadline is 31 October and only successful applicants will be contacted.

For more information and updates, visit the MTN Bushfire official website.