Grammy-winning American music producer Jermaine Dupri is soaking up South African culture while in the country with Canadian R&B duo DVSN, who are performing in Johannesburg and Cape Town this week.
Dupri, a celebrated songwriter and founder of the influential So So Def record label, shared images on social media of his time in Soweto, one of South Africa’s most historic townships. While exploring the vibrant streets of Vilakazi Street, known for its rich cultural heritage, he visited iconic sites including Nelson Mandela’s former home and the Hector Pieterson Memorial, which commemorates youth who died during the 1976 Soweto uprisings.
Soweto remains a powerful symbol of South Africa’s struggle against apartheid and a vibrant hub for music, art and local life, making it a meaningful stop for international visitors keen to understand the country’s history.
Dupri’s trip coincides with DVSN’s performances at the Once Upon a Time in Joburg concert, a local music festival that celebrates R&B, neo-soul and international talent. The duo headlined the Johannesburg show, drawing a large crowd, and are scheduled to perform in Cape Town later this week.
The producer also took time to engage with local culture and scenery beyond Soweto. After Johannesburg, he travelled to Cape Town, staying at the renowned One & Only hotel with views of Table Mountain, and visited scenic spots such as Camps Bay, where beach life and coastal activities are a draw for both locals and tourists.
On social media, Dupri explained that he signed DVSN to his So So Def/Hype label after witnessing how much their fans love their music.
“After working with DVSN on their last album, attending their shows, and seeing the passion of their fans, I knew I had to sign them,” he wrote.
Fans online have warmly welcomed Dupri’s presence in South Africa, celebrating his appreciation for the country’s culture and history, highlighting South Africa’s growing role as a destination for global music and entertainment figures.
