Kunye Music Festival 2024: A Night to Remember with Monkey Shoulder

On Saturday, 2 November 2024, at Huddle Park in Linksfield, Johannesburg, the 7th Edition of the Kunye Music Festival brought thousands together for an unforgettable celebration.

Together as One: The Spirit of Kunye

“Kunye,” meaning “Together as One,” lived up to its name, uniting fans and artists in a shared appreciation for South Africa’s rich musical heritage. The star-studded line-up featured Gordo, Desiree, Tekniq, Ten Oceans, FKA Mash, Sir LSG, Tristan Urwin, Shamiso, and an electrifying back-to-back set by DJ Fresh and Shimza. The night reached its peak with an unforgettable performance by the award-winning Black Coffee, whose signature beats kept the energy soaring. By sunset, Huddle Park was transformed into a pulsating sea of dancing bodies, with the crowd losing themselves to the rhythm of the music.

Exclusive Monkey Shoulder VIP Lounge Experience

The Monkey Shoulder VIP Lounge catered to an elite crowd, including Monkey Shoulder’s exclusive “Friends of the Brand”, who enjoyed a premium blend of luxury and flair. Guests were treated to an array of expertly crafted cocktails showcasing the whisky that’s made for mixing. Known for its signature “Ginger Perfect Serve”, Monkey Shoulder’s warm, rich flavour profile came alive when paired with ginger ale, making it the drink of the night.

The event also celebrated the brand’s bold ambassadors, Shamiso Mosaka and Thabang Mazibuko. Shamiso brought her signature street-style edge, while Thabang’s knack for breaking conventions perfectly embodied the brand’s spirit of innovation and creativity.

Unveiling Art with Monkey Shoulder Brushstroke Battle

At the centre of the celebrations was the grand unveiling of the winning mural from the Monkey Shoulder Brushstroke Battle. This masterpiece was brought to life by acclaimed graffiti artist George Mars, whose vibrant and dynamic style has left its mark from Johannesburg to Japan. Mars, a true trailblazer in the graffiti world, embodies the spirit of street culture elevated to global recognition.

His mural for Monkey Shoulder not only captivated attendees with its bold colours and intricate details but also reflected the brand’s commitment to creativity and breaking boundaries. The artwork seamlessly merged the energy of urban art with Monkey Shoulder’s distinctive, unconventional ethos, leaving festival-goers inspired and impressed. This fusion of art and whisky was more than a visual treat—it was a celebration of a shared passion for innovation and individuality.

The Future of Monkey Shoulder’s Brushstroke Battle

With the curtain falling on this year’s Brushstroke Battle, Monkey Shoulder reaffirmed its dedication to celebrating creativity that breaks boundaries and transcends the canvas. This year’s competition, capped off by George Mars’s stunning mural, was a testament to the brand’s commitment to sparking playful inspiration across art, culture, and community.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Monkey Shoulder in 2025?

As Monkey Shoulder sets its sights on 2025, fans can expect even bigger and bolder Brushstroke Battle events—a thrilling next chapter in the evolution of artistic innovation. The Kunye Music Festival served as a vibrant example of how Monkey Shoulder continues to craft memorable and unexpected experiences, blending art, whisky, and culture into moments that leave a lasting impression.

Stay tuned—Monkey Shoulder’s creative journey is only just beginning!