If festivalgoers were given just one sentence to describe last weekend’s adventure at Cape Town’s arguably biggest music and lifestyle destination festival, it would be this:
Rocking the Daisies 2024 brought the heat this year, both literally and figuratively.
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From incredible performances by a star-studded line-up and buzzing bodies to endless activities and exclusive festival merch, the 19th edition of Rocking the Daisies delivered a weekend of euphoric vibes and pure energy.
In light of this year’s theme being ‘in the stars’, the line-up was nothing short of celestial, with world-renowned Snoh Alegra, Ayra Starr, Nasty C and 6lack lighting up the main stage alongside an epic mix of international and local talent.
While each artist brought their unique sound to the festival, it was Swedish singer-songwriter Snoh Alegra who stole the show with her soulful vocals and Nigerian-born Ayra Starr who captivated hearts with her infectious Afropop beats and an acapella rendition of her hit song ‘Rush’ that had crowds belting out the lyrics.
Alongside some of South Africa’s brightest stars like Sun El Musician and Shekhinah, Nasty C stood out as a showstopper with his high-energy rap that turned up the mood. The following night, 6lack closed his set with his signature emotive sound, leaving the audience yearning for more.
Amid scorching hot temperatures throughout the weekend, another major highlight emanated from the Flying Fish Beach Club stage. Here, some of Cape Town’s hottest DJs battled the weather to find out which one could bring the most heat – admittedly, it was a tie.
Fizz & Shai-a, Fish Parcel, Foreplay DJ, Gremlin & Kane, Enrico Celento, Clint L and many more delivered unforgettable sets, infusing the festival’s final day with beach day vibes and a deliciously curated mix of electrifying beats, complete with touches of house, amapiano and R&B.
Their mixes complemented the laid-back party vibe, creating the perfect Sunday soundtrack.
As the festival drew to a close, DJ Kent delivered a phenomenal set that wrapped up the weekend in style. His performance was the perfect finale, filled with smooth transitions and feel-good tracks that kept the crowd in high spirits right until the end.
Beyond the performances, the overall vibe of Rocking the Daisies 2024 set the tone for summer.
From Secret Sunrise yoga sessions to the new addition of the Coke Studio Deck and the first-ever outdoor festival fashion show showcasing an exclusive merch collaboration with iconic local brand Galxboy, Daisies gave us a taste of the infectious energy and unparalleled atmosphere that only comes with Cape Town summers.
Suffice it to say, this year’s festival was truly one for the books, and with such a successful event, anticipation for next year’s edition is already building.
In fact, we’ll be first in line when tickets are released.
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Picture: Siyabulela Dlamini
Words: Paxton Adonis / Tauhira Ajam