Each March, Botanic Park comes alive with WOMADelaide, drawing artists from across continents and generations into one sun-dappled pocket of the South Australian capital. For 2026, the program feels especially exciting, spanning everything from hip hop pioneers and global icons to powerful First Nations storytelling.
Ahead of the festival’s 2026 return from 6–9 March in Adelaide’s Botanic Park the RUSSH team shares the names we’ll be circling, saving and sprinting between stages for. Peruse our WOMADelaide highlights, below.
1. Grace Jones
Yes, the inimitable Grace Jones will grace us with her presence at WOMADelaide this year. The Jamaican singer, songwriter, model and actress has earned her reputation as one of the most unforgettable figures in recent history. And now, she'll be bringing the anthems that put her on the map Down Under.
2. Ganavya
New York-born and Tamil Nadu-raised Ganavya blends ambient jazz with South Asian classical traditions. Described by The New York Times as sounding “like a prayer,” her music is shaped by spiritual practice and restraint rather than showmanship. In a festival setting, her set promises welcome stillness; drawing in a crowd in rather than demanding attention.
3. Jalen Ngonda
Jalen Ngonda channels the richness of 60s and 70s soul music, pairing timeless vocals with modern production. His rise is well-deserved, spanning sold-out tours, Glastonbury slots and praise from Sir Elton John, who called him “a huge star in the making.”
4. Oumou Sangaré
Grammy-winning Malian artist Oumou Sangaré, known as the “Songbird of Wassoulou,” is a global star and long-time feminist voice. Her music blends traditional Malian sounds with blues and rock influences, while her lyrics directly challenge patriarchy and advocate for women’s independence. Naturally, then, her live shows are powerful and commanding, whether at the Sydney Opera House or alongside Beyoncé, Jay-Z and Childish Gambino on 'Mood 4 Eva'.
5. Obongjayar
Obongjayar’s sound resists easy categorisation. Drawing from his Nigerian heritage and UK upbringing, he shifts between pop, alternative R&B and stripped-back balladry. What really sets him apart is emotional transparency: his voice can feel conversational one moment and urgent the next. On stage, that unpredictability is what makes his set one of the weekend’s most anticipated.
6. Annahstasia
Annahstasia’s path has been gradual but deliberate. After early industry attention as a teenager, she’s re-emerged on her own terms, crafting songs that sit between folk minimalism and classic soul. With a growing list of collaborators and major live moments under her belt, she feels poised for a significant next chapter.
7. KAIIT
KAIIT has built one of the most consistent catalogues in the Australian neo-soul category. Her music blends groove-heavy production with personal yet self-assured lyrics and delivery. Recognition at home and respect from international soul heavyweights have cemented her reputation.
8. Kankawa Nagarra
Kankawa Nagarra came to recording later in life, but her voice carries decades of lived experience. A Walmatjarri Elder from the Kimberley, her voice is grounded rather than showy. Her performances are centred on story, Country and connection, offering something deeply human within the scale of a major festival.
