Multi-platinum alternative rock outfit KONGOS are officially heading back to where it all began. The South African-raised brothers are set to make their highly anticipated return home to join the lineup for Up The Creek 2027, taking place 11–14 February 2027 along the picturesque banks of the Breede River in Swellendam, South Africa.
For a generation of alt-rock and crossover pop fans, the four-brother band—comprising Johnny, Jesse, Dylan, and Danny Kongos—is synonymous with one of the most inescapable anthems of the 2010s. Their global breakthrough single, “Come With Me Now,” became a worldwide phenomenon, dominating international charts, streaming platforms, and radio waves while earning multi-platinum status across the globe.
Raised in Johannesburg before relocating to Austin, Texas, the brothers built their early foundation playing to passionate local crowds in South Africa. Now, after years of extensive international touring and currently hard at work recording their seventh studio album, the band is preparing for a landmark homecoming performance that bridges their storied history with their present-day evolution.
“We’ve always had a special connection with South Africa and its music-loving audiences,” KONGOS said in a statement regarding the upcoming festival appearance. “There’s nothing quite like coming back home and playing for people who have been there since the beginning. We’re really looking forward to being back in South Africa and sharing the stage at Up The Creek.”
Known for their electrifying stage presence, accordion-fuelled riffs, and genre-blending mix of alternative rock, electronic textures, and stomping rhythms, KONGOS bring a deep catalog of fan favorites to one of South Africa’s longest-running outdoor music gatherings.
Established in 1990, Up The Creek is celebrated for its intimate, four-day, four-stage setup where festivalgoers famously float on lilos along the river while watching live acts. KONGOS will join a stacked 2027 roster featuring more than 50 artists performing across the four-day weekend.
For longtime fans who sang along to their breakout hits during their international rise, and a new generation ready to experience their raw live energy for the first time, KONGOS’ return to the Breede River promises to be one of the signature live music moments of 2027.
