The glamour and excitement surrounding this year’s Hollywoodbets Durban July continues to build as organisers of The Ascots have announced two major additions to the festival lineup, international rap star Swae Lee and South African hip hop heavyweight Cassper Nyovest.
The duo joins an already impressive roster featuring Grammy-nominated artists Bryson Tiller and Masego for the inaugural edition of The Ascots, set to take place on July 4 at the southern lawns of Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse.
World-class production
Billed as a premium boutique festival experience, The Ascots promises a luxurious fusion of live music, curated hospitality, fine dining and world-class production at one of Africa’s most prestigious lifestyle events.
The festival’s expanded lineup also includes some of South Africa’s leading musical talents, among them Shekhinah, Elaine and Tresor, while music selection duties will be handled by DJs Brian Henry, Akio and Durban-born Asvnte.
The latest announcement comes after organisers confirmed that American producer and DJ, DJ Mustard will no longer perform at the event due to unforeseen circumstances.
Despite the change, organisers say the addition of Swae Lee and Cassper Nyovest strengthens what is already shaping up to be one of the biggest entertainment offerings attached to the Durban July weekend.
“We are excited about the direction The Ascots continues to take and are proud to welcome global superstar Swae Lee alongside South African music icon Cassper Nyovest to this year’s experience,” said Sibo Mhlungu, CEO and founder of Aline Media Group.
Mhlungu added that bringing Bryson Tiller and Masego to Durban for the first time aligns with the event’s vision of creating a globally competitive lifestyle and entertainment platform rooted in music, culture, luxury and hospitality.
Organisers have also introduced a new ticket option known as The Gardens, priced at
R2 750, giving guests access to the full entertainment experience within the premium festival environment.
For guests looking for a more exclusive offering, hospitality packages include The Ascot Terraces Private Lounge at R100 000 per table of 10 and the ultra-premium Owners Sky Club experience at R150 000 per table.
- International rap star Swae Lee and South African hip hop artist Cassper Nyovest have been added to The Ascots festival lineup at the Hollywoodbets Durban July event on July 4.
- The Ascots festival, held at Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse, includes Grammy-nominated Bryson Tiller and Masego, along with South African talents like Shekhinah, Elaine, and Tresor.
- The event promises a luxurious experience with live music, curated hospitality, fine dining, and top-tier production, featuring DJs Brian Henry, Akio, and Asvnte.
- DJ Mustard withdrew from the event due to unforeseen circumstances, but organisers emphasize that the lineup remains strong with the new additions.
- New ticket options include The Gardens at R2,750, The Ascot Terraces Private Lounge at R100,000 per table of 10, and the ultra-premium Owners Sky Club at R150,000 per table.


