Did the Stanbic Music Festival Fail to Sell Out This Year?

Did the Stanbic Music Festival Fail to Sell Out This Year?

October 12 saw the end of the second day of the Stanbic Music Festival 2024, which included performances by international stars Omarion and Musiq Soulchild.

Yo Maps and Chef 187, two local artists, were scheduled to co-headline the event, highlighting the festival’s blending of local and international talent.

Though there was a lot of excitement about these performances, Chef 187’s absence sparked discussions about how the event was handled.

Chef 187’s withdrawal from the festival without a public apology from the organisers sparked additional outrage.

The performance, however, went ahead as planned on the 11th and 12th of October, with various local musicians, including Chef 187’s elder brother Macky 2, taking part.

Macky 2’s entrance sparked discussion among attendees, with many asking about the unresolved issue behind Chef 187’s absence.

In contrast to the 2023 Stanbic Music Festival, which had a sold-out attendance on both days and a headlining performance by Ne-Yo, this year’s festival struggled to match that success.

Attendees noticed a difference in atmosphere and turnout, with many claiming that the festival lacked the same level and excitement as the previous year.

A sizable percentage of the audience was not happy with the festival’s lineup, describing the musicians as no longer relevant or not known.

Many had anticipated expecting more well-known international artists like Chris Brown, Drake, or Kendrick Lamar.

The decision by the organisers to book singers like Omarion and Musiq Soulchild, who have faded from mainstream appeal, led some to believe that the roster was not worth the price of admission.

Ticket sales showed the lack of satisfaction. On the first day of the festival, ticket prices were cut in an attempt to increase attendance, and on the second day, a “buy one, get one free” offer was implemented.

These moves indicated the festival’s inability to sell out despite extensive promotion. Many people remarked that such safeguards were in stark contrast to last year’s event, which saw tickets sell out without trouble.

Despite these limitations, the festival received positive feedback for its well-executed stage design and sound system.

The organisers also funded a first-time collaboration between international headlining performers and local musicians, demonstrating their commitment to fostering synergy between global and local talents.

Looking ahead, there is hope that future Stanbic Music Festivals would showcase musicians who are more in line with popular demand.

Bringing in top-tier acts like Chris Brown, who recently sold out South Africa’s FNB Stadium in two hours, might result in higher attendance and overall success.

Many people believed that this year’s roster, which included Musiq Soulchild, fell short, and that a shift towards more contemporary, high-profile bands may be required for the festival’s future success.

SOME HIGHLIGHTS FROM DAY 1 OF STANBIC MUSIC FESTIVAL: