The first-round submission period for AFRICA.ROCKS Soundcheck 2026 has now come to an end, and the competition moves into its next stage with all participating videos now online.
Soundcheck is a rehearsal-based video competition for bands based in Africa, centred on one original song performed live. This year’s first round features ALIENS IN OCEANS performing “FAFO” from South Africa, CARTAGENA with “Dyhia/Al Kahina” from Tunisia, CHOVU with “Ogalo” from Kenya, DIKAMBA with “Fênix” from Angola, GREY with “Mampalaleho” from Madagascar, MYSANTHRIUM with “Hells Winds Bring Swarm” from South Africa, NAKAKA VIBRATION BAND with “Namwaliwe” from Malawi, PAGAN ULVER with “Ravenous Flock” from Morocco, SLA.ID with “Lindy” from Madagascar, and TAGREST with “Maysara” from Morocco.
With the videos now available to watch, readers can start getting familiar with the bands before the public vote begins. Worldwide voting opens on 26 April 2026 through the official AFRICA.ROCKS voting page and runs until 9 May 2026. At the end of that period, the five bands with the highest valid public vote totals will advance to the final round.
From there, the competition moves toward its closing stage, with the winning band receiving a USD 250 cash prize.
For now, the first-round videos are live, the bands are in place, and the next part of Soundcheck 2026 is ready to begin.
Watch the official YouTube Playlist below:
