DVSN Set Johannesburg Alight at the Once Upon A Time Festival

DVSN Set Johannesburg Alight at the Once Upon A Time Festival A Night of R&B Magic

Johannesburg witnessed a powerful moment for R&B culture when DVSN headlined the Once Upon A Time Festival at Marks Park, Emmarentia a show that pulled in over 10,000 fans, all singing along to the duo’s biggest records in a night that felt both historic and emotionally charged.

The festival, known for championing soulful, expressive, and lyrically rich artists, delivered one of its most memorable editions yet. As the sun set over Joburg, the atmosphere turned electric, with fans ready for a rare chance to see one of the world’s most respected R&B acts live.

DVSN’s Unforgettable Set

The Canadian duo Daniel Daley and producer Nineteen85 took the stage to thunderous screams, opening a set filled with silky vocals, crisp production, and the soulful vulnerability that defines their sound.

From Too Deep to Hallucinations to If I Get Caught, the crowd of 10,000 sang every word, transforming Marks Park into a choir of harmonies and heartbreak anthems. Their connection with the audience was seamless Daley’s live vocals soaring while Nineteen85 commanded the sonic landscape with perfection.

For many fans, it was a long-awaited moment: one of DVSN’s first major performances in South Africa, and a statement that Joburg’s R&B scene is not just growing it’s thriving.

A Line-Up Rich With Soul From Local Heroes to International Stars

The festival wasn’t just about the headliner. The supporting acts brought depth, diversity, and a proudly South African flavour to the stage.

Jaz Karis A Standout International Voice

UK soul singer Jaz Karis delivered one of the evening’s most talked-about performances. Her airy vocals, emotional presence, and effortless command of the stage left the crowd mesmerised. Whether performing favourites like Pretty Dreamer or serenading the audience with stripped-back moments, she reminded Joburg why she’s become a global favourite in the alternative R&B world.

Langa Mavuso, Una Rams, Filah Lah Lah & More

South Africa’s finest talent completed the lineup, giving the festival its heartbeat:

Langa Mavuso brought elegance and raw emotion, turning the stage into a space of vulnerability and healing. 

Unarams delivered energy, charm, and the charismatic sonic warmth he’s known for.

Filah Lah Lah stunned with her powerful vocals and genre-bending artistry a true reflection of SA’s new-wave talent.Together, these artists showcased the richness of the local scene, holding their own alongside major global names and proving that South African R&B is standing firmly on the world stage.

A Night Joburg Won’t Forget

The success of the festival from the 10,000-strong crowd to the world-class performances — cemented Once Upon A Time in Joburg as one of the city’s premier live music moments of the year. Fans left buzzing, timelines filled with live clips, and conversations echoed across social media about how special it felt to witness an event where international and local talent blended so seamlessly.

It wasn’t just a concert it was a celebration of emotion, artistry, and the power of R&B to bring people together.