Since debuting with the hit track Isencane Lengane and their first EP Amabutho (2021), The Joy has captivated audiences, showcasing their talent on platforms such as The Jennifer Hudson Show and Later… with Jools Holland. They have attracted acclaim from notable figures like Alicia Keys, Sam Smith, and Jennifer Hudson, the latter of whom referred to them as her “favourite band” and included them on her Christmas album The Gift of Love. Their partnerships continue to expand, including a 2023 release with The Blessed Madonna (Shades of Love) and a contribution to Doja Cat’s Scarlet 2 CLAUDE album.
The Joy’s dynamic live performances have taken place on renowned stages globally, beginning at London’s Church Studios, where they recorded The Joy (Live Album). They have performed at festivals such as Glastonbury, Coachella, WOMADELAIDE, Sziget, Green Man, Pukkelpop, and Way Out West. Their recent appearances included Global Citizen Africa 2026 and Together for a Better Day, a tribute concert in memory of Avicii.
As The Joy’s sound develops, they incorporate their Zulu musical heritage with contemporary global influences, producing music that resonates both locally and internationally. Their impact reaches across different languages, cultures, and digital landscapes. Central to their work is a foundational connection. As they often express: “Life made us friends, music made us brothers.”
