South African jazz lovers are in for a treat as internationally acclaimed saxophonist Kenny G is set to tour the country this October, Cape {town} Etc reports.
The smooth jazz legend will perform in Durban, Cape Town, and Pretoria, marking his highly anticipated return to South Africa after more than two decades.
With a career spanning over 40 years, Kenny G has sold over 75 million albums worldwide, making him one of the best-selling instrumental artists of all time. His signature sound, characterised by soulful saxophone melodies, has made hits like Songbird and Forever in Love timeless classics.
Kenny G’s contributions to music have solidified him as a cultural icon. Over the years, he has won multiple platinum and gold albums and captivated audiences worldwide with his emotive performances.
During a conversation with Cape {town} Etc, he shared some of his most memorable venues, highlighting the grandeur of the Royal Albert Hall in London and the historic Budokan in Tokyo as standouts in his career.
‘One venue that stood out for me was Royal Albert Hall—it was such a beautiful concert hall. But the most memorable for me is the Budokan in Tokyo. It’s so iconic. Those two really stand out.’
A long overdue return
Reflecting on his past performances in South Africa, Kenny G expressed his excitement about returning to the country.
‘I was in South Africa about 20 years ago, and the last time was brilliant. I’m really looking forward to it because it’s been years, so this tour is way overdue,’ he told Cape {town} Etc.
The upcoming tour will see the Grammy Award-winning musician performing some of his most beloved hits alongside new material from his latest album. Fans can expect an evening of breathtaking musicality, masterful improvisation, and the smooth jazz style that has made Kenny G a household name.
Pre-show rituals and career reflections
For Kenny G, preparation is key. The saxophonist shared a glimpse into his meticulous show-day routine, revealing how he ensures he delivers a flawless performance.
‘If the show is at 8pm, I arrive at the venue by noon and practice with my saxophone for an hour before having lunch. Then I practice with another saxophone for an hour and a half, so I get about two and a half hours of practice in. By 3pm, the band arrives and does their thing for an hour, and by 4pm, we start sound check.
‘I usually join in at around 5pm for an hour. Between 6pm and 8pm, I steam my clothes and get ready for the show. I don’t eat anything until after, and that’s my routine before performing.’
Despite the high-pressure nature of live performances, he says nerves never get in his way.
‘I don’t get nervous—it’s more excitement. I’ve done so many shows in so many venues that I don’t let nerves affect my playing.’
Looking back on his career, Kenny G recalled the moment he realised he had officially made it as a musician.
‘That moment happened in Los Angeles, on the famous Sunset Boulevard. One day, I was driving down Sunset Boulevard, and I saw my face on a billboard. That’s when it hit me—I had made it.’
Tour dates and ticket information
Kenny G’s South African tour will feature three major performances:
Durban – Wednesday, 1 October 2025 – Durban ICC
Cape Town – Thursday, 2 October 2025 – Grand Arena, GrandWest
Pretoria – Saturday, 4 October 2025 – SunBet Arena, Times Square
Venue Details:
Durban ICC
45 Bram Fischer Road, Durban 4001
GPS: S 29 51.166 / E 31 01.791
Tickets: General Admission 18+ R795 (excluding R35 Ticket Service Fee)
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Grand Arena, GrandWest, Cape Town
1 Jakes Gerwel Dr, Acacia Park, Cape Town, 7460
GPS: S 33 55 9.11 / E 18 32 46.15
Tickets: General Admission 18+ R795 (excluding R35 Ticket Service Fee)
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SunBet Arena, Times Square, Pretoria
209 Aramist Avenue, Waterkloof Glen, Pretoria 0010
GPS: 25.7886° S, 28.2819° E
Tickets: General Admission 18+ R795 (excluding R35 Ticket Service Fee)
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Tickets for the tour go on sale at 9am on 28 March 2025 at Webtickets, and are expected to sell out quickly.
With a career built on passion, precision, and a deep connection to his instrument, Kenny G is set to bring his magic back to South Africa, promising an unforgettable experience for jazz lovers across the country.
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Picture: Supplied
