ACCES 2026: Johannesburg Welcomes African Music Stars and Industry Leaders

Johannesburg, South Africa, is bringing together musicians, music executives and creative professionals from across Africa and beyond as the Music In Africa Conference for Collaborations, Exchange and Showcases (ACCES) 2026 gets underway.

Running from October 28 to 31, the event combines music-industry discussions, networking opportunities and live performances. The main conference sessions are scheduled for October 29 and 30 at The Forum, The Campus, in Bryanston, Johannesburg.

According to the event's official programme, more than 700 delegates from over 45 countries are expected to participate.

Sun-El Musician and Other African Artists Feature in the Programme

South African producer and DJ Sun-El Musician is among the prominent names scheduled to take part in this year's programme.

Other announced performers include South African vocal group The Joy, Zimbabwean guitarist Sylent Nqo and Ghanaian acts FimFim and Akra. Artists from other African countries and the diaspora are also represented.

The expanded ACCES Industry Nights programme will spread performances across several Johannesburg venues, giving audiences opportunities to discover artists working in different musical styles.

From Afro-house and Afro-soul to alternative music and jazz, the programme reflects the range of sounds emerging from across the continent.

More Than Music: The Business Behind African Talent

ACCES is not just about performances. Its conference sessions will explore how artists can build sustainable careers, generate income from music rights, expand into international markets and develop stronger touring opportunities.

These issues remain important as African music continues to attract international listeners.

A successful song can introduce an artist to a global audience, but turning that attention into lasting income often requires professional management, effective promotion, publishing knowledge and reliable business relationships.

The conference offers industry professionals a space to exchange ideas and discuss practical solutions to these challenges.

Why the Event Matters for African Musicians

For emerging musicians, opportunities to meet promoters, record labels, publishers and other professionals can be valuable. Such connections may help artists understand how the music business works beyond releasing songs and performing on stage.

But make we talk true: talent alone no always guarantee success for the music industry. Artists also need to understand contracts, protect their creative rights, build relationships and learn how to earn from their work.

Events like ACCES can help create those conversations, although attending a conference does not automatically guarantee a record deal, international booking or financial success.

The long-term impact will depend on whether the relationships formed during the event lead to meaningful collaborations and opportunities after the conference ends.

What Attendees Should Know

According to the official programme, attendance at the main conference on October 29 and 30 is advertised as free, with registration subject to availability.

The evening Industry Nights have separate ticketing arrangements, so attendees should check the official programme and the relevant venue details before making plans.

For African music professionals, the event offers an opportunity to connect with colleagues, discover new sounds and explore the business side of a rapidly developing music landscape.

What do you think? Are African music conferences like ACCES doing enough to help emerging artists build sustainable careers, or should more support be directed towards funding, distribution and international promotion?