Jason Derulo delivers unforgettable finale at Stanbic Music Festival in Lusaka

Fans who packed Polo Field A were treated to a non-stop set of chart-topping hits, with Derulo delivering high-energy choreography backed by his own dancers and a live band.

“Hit after hit, Jason closed out the night in pure legendary style,” organisers added.

The 36-year-old star, who boasts billions of streams and over 200 million social media followers, performed some of his biggest anthems including Talk Dirty, Want To Want Me, Wiggle and Savage Love.

The night was not just about the international headliner as Derulo was joined on stage by some of Zambia’s biggest names including Yo Maps, Mampi and Danny Kaya, alongside Zimbabwean songstress Tamy Moyo.

One of the most talked-about moments of the night was when Ugandan viral sensation Tenge Tenge shared the stage with Derulo after the American star intervened to allow the 13-year-old onto the stage despite initial resistance from security.

The moment drew loud cheers from the crowd and quickly went viral on social media, adding to the festival’s global buzz.

Stanbic Music Festival Chairperson Ngoza Nyirenda said the festival continues to grow because of the collective commitment of partners, artists, media and audiences.

“Every year, the festival creates opportunities for local talent, supports businesses and brings people together through shared experiences that celebrate the very best of Zambia,” Nyirenda said.

Now in its latest edition, the Stanbic Music Festival has cemented its place as Zambia’s premier music and lifestyle event, drawing thousands of music lovers and a premium corporate audience from across the region.

This year’s edition was held under the hashtags #SMF2026 and #StanbicDoesMusic, and also promoted sustainability through its Tickets for Trees campaign where every ticket purchased contributes to tree planting.

With the Golden Circle sold out days before the event and standard tickets pegged at K800 and VIP at K2,500, organisers said SMF2026 will be remembered as the year Lusaka hosted a true global icon for a legendary finale.

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