Swae Lee Added to Headline Act
Following the withdrawal of DJ Mustard, Swae Lee has been added to the line-up for The Ascots Experience at the Hollywoodbets Durban July, joining Bryson Tiller and Masego.
Event Details Announced
The complete international artist list was revealed on 14 May 2026 during a media event hosted by Aline Media Group in Sandton. The festival is scheduled for 4 July on the southern lawns of Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse in Durban.
Aline Media Group’s Vision
Aline Media Group founder and CEO Sibo Mhlungu discussed his goal of establishing a globally competitive entertainment event within South Africa.
“I don’t wanna wait to go see someone at Coachella,” Mhlungu stated. “I wanna bring Coachella back home.”
He further explained: “We are doing what I consider the greatest opportunity for us to showcase African exceptionalism on the world stage in our own backyard.”
Line-up Adjustments and Continued Commitment
Mhlungu affirmed the organisation’s long-term commitment to the event, despite adjustments to the initial artist roster.
“While there have been changes to the originally announced line-up, we are excited about the direction The Ascots continues to take and are proud to welcome global superstar Swae Lee, alongside South African music icon Cassper Nyovest, to this year’s experience,” he said.
“We are incredibly excited to bring Bryson Tiller and Masego to Durban for the very first time, while also showcasing some of the continent’s most exciting talent, including Tresor, Shekhinah and Elaine. The Ascots is about creating a globally competitive experience rooted in music, culture, luxury and hospitality, and we believe this line-up reflects that vision.”
Artist Roster and Music Curation
The event will include three Grammy-nominated international performers, as well as Cassper Nyovest, Tresor, Elaine and Shekhinah. Brian Henry, Akio, and Asvnte will also contribute to the music curation.
Personal Reflections Shared
Tresor spoke about his relationship with Mhlungu and his connection to Durban, noting, “I’m really excited for the show because I also love Durban very dearly. I spent many years in Durban. I started my life in Durban on the street and worked my way up.”
Mhlungu responded by recalling Tresor’s career path.
“Literally,” he said. “Tresor worked from the bottom right to the top. We know, we were there. Tresor started playing guitar, busking on the street. He was a car guard. He did everything he had to, this guy did it.”
Ticketing and Hospitality Options
A new ticket category, The Gardens, has been introduced, priced at R2 750. Additional hospitality packages include The Ascot Terraces Private Lounge at R100 000 for a table of ten, and the Owners Sky Club package at R150 000 for a table of ten.
South African music icon Cassper Nyovest to this year’s experience,” he said.
