Streaming service Showmax will make history on January 18 by becoming the continent’s first video-on-demand platform to live stream a local concert. Grammy winner Tyla’s performance at Pretoria’s SunBet Arena will be broadcast live to viewers across 44 African countries.
The 22-year-old South African star, who rose to international fame with her blend of Amapiano and pop music, will perform tracks from her self-titled debut album, TYLA. The album has already achieved remarkable success, surpassing 1.6 billion streams globally and earning her the distinction of being the youngest African Grammy recipient.
“Tygers! Me and Showmax decided to live stream this concert for everyone across Africa. I hardly get time to be home so this one is gonna be special!” Tyla said, whose recent accolades include wins at the BET Awards and MTV Music Video Awards.
The live stream will be a big technical achievement for Showmax, leveraging Peacock’s streaming tech—the same system that handled 16.3 million simultaneous viewers during an NFL Wild Card game.
Yatish Narsi, Chief Marketing Officer at Showmax and MultiChoice South Africa, emphasized the implications of this initiative, stating, “We’re not just hoping to smash records with this live stream. We’re changing the narrative of what it means to succeed on our continent. Showmax doesn’t just aim to be the best in Africa; we aim to take our place among the best in the world.”
The timing of this event coincides with Showmax’s strong performance following its February 2024 relaunch, which has seen a 50% increase in paying subscribers year-over-year. The livestream offers a final opportunity for fans who missed Tyla’s sold-out shows in Cape Town and Pretoria to experience her tour.
Viewers will need an active Showmax Entertainment subscription to access the live stream, with subscription sign-ups available through the platform’s website.
