In 2026, Gallo Record Company celebrates an incredible milestone: 100 years of shaping, preserving, and championing the sound of African music.
To mark this extraordinary century, the iconic label is bringing Gallo 100: The Sound of a Century to Cape Town on 15 December 2026, transforming the city’s Grand Parade into a spectacular celebration of music, culture, memory, and legacy.
Since its inception in 1926, Gallo has been the heartbeat of South Africa’s musical heritage
The label’s expansive catalogue is the soundtrack of generations, spanning genres from jazz, mbaqanga, and isicathamiya to maskandi, reggae, pop, house, and kwaito.
Gallo’s rich history is deeply woven into the global journeys of legendary acts. From the early recordings of Solomon Linda’s “Mbube” to the international triumphs of Miriam Makeba, Hugh Masekela, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, and Lucky Dube, the label has played a defining role in carrying African voices to the world.
Black Coffee Leads the Charge
Leading this once-in-a-century celebration is none other than global icon Black Coffee. As one of Africa’s most recognized musical exports, his presence perfectly bridges the gap between heritage and innovation – honoring the sounds that shaped the continent and those currently shaping the globe.
Antos Stella, CEO of Music Arena, notes that the centenary is a massive cultural milestone. “Black Coffee represents the global reach of African sound today,” Stella explains. “Having him headline Gallo 100 allows us to honour where the music has come from, while also celebrating where it is going.”
Joining Black Coffee for the centenary celebration are some of South Africa’s most exciting and influential artists and DJs, including Uncle Waffles, DJ Maphorisa, Sipho ‘Hotstix’ Mabuse, Sun-El Musician, Julian Gomes, Ami Faku, Oscar Mbo, Da Mike, Fraser Jones, LeloWhatsGood, Jay Jayy and Temple Boys, alongside special guests who will join the festivities on the day.
Presented in partnership with KFM, Gallo 100: The Sound of a Century will bring together an expansive mix of South African musical talent, celebrating the diversity, evolution and cultural influence of the sounds that have shaped generations.
“Gallo’s centenary is not only a company milestone. It is a cultural milestone,” says Antos Stella “For 100 years, Gallo has been part of the soundtrack of people’s lives. Gallo 100 is about celebrating the artists, producers, writers, communities and music lovers who have helped carry that story across generations. Bringing together artists who represent the diversity and continued evolution of South African music is a fitting way to honour that legacy and look towards the future.”
More Than Just a Concert
Conceived as a living archive and a massive dancefloor, the festival promises a full-scale cultural experience. Attendees can expect premium production, archive-led storytelling, curated cultural moments, food, bars, and VIP experiences.
With Black Coffee announced as the first major reveal, anticipation is rapidly building. Additional artists and the full festival line-up will be announced in the coming weeks, promising a landmark gathering of the most celebrated voices connected to Africa’s ever-evolving musical landscape.
Event Details:
- Event: Gallo 100: The Sound of a Century
- Date: 15 December 2026
- Venue: Grand Parade, Cape Town
- Tickets: Available via Howler
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