The Joy

The Joy at Barbican Hall

The Joy is a South African band redefining global music through soul-stirring harmonies, rich cultural expression, and a deeply human sense of connection. Hailing from a small town in KwaZulu-Natal, the group has captured hearts around the world through their meteoric rise – marked by critical acclaim, viral moments, and high-profile collaborations.

From their breakout single Isencane Lengane and debut EP Amabutho (2021) to electrifying performances on The Jennifer Hudson Show and Later… with Jools Holland, The Joy has earned praise from global icons including Alicia Keys, Sam Smith, and Jennifer Hudson, who called them her “favorite band” and featured them on her Christmas album The Gift of Love.

Their commanding live performances have graced iconic stages around the world – from London’s Church Studios, where they recorded The Joy (Live Album), to festivals including Glastonbury, Coachella, WOMADELAIDE, Sziget, Green Man, Pukkelpop, and Way Out West. Most recently, they brought their vibrant vocal arrangements and compositions to Global Citizen Africa 2026 and Together for a Better Day, the annual tribute concert in honour of Avicii.

As their sound continues to grow, The Joy are finding new ways to bring their Zulu musical roots into contemporary global sounds and the modern Afropop landscape – creating music that feels both anchored in home and resonant across borders.