South Africa’s summer calendar is officially heating up: platinum-selling American R&B star Mariah the Scientist is set to headline a one-night-only show at SunBet Arena, Pretoria, on Saturday, 3 January 2026. For Jozi and Pretoria fans who have waited years for her debut on local soil, the countdown has truly begun.

Fresh off the success of her Billboard #1 placement and the momentum of her acclaimed album HEARTS SOLD SEPARATELY, Mariah brings more than just a concert — she brings a carefully curated experience crafted exclusively for her South African audience. Presented by Vertex Events, the show promises the atmospheric vocals, heartbreak anthems, and cinematic R&B storytelling that have made her a global favourite.

With smash hits like “Burning Blue,” “Spread Thin,” “Reminders,” “Is It a Crime,” and “2 You,” Mariah has carved out a sound that lives at the intersection of vulnerability and velocity — a blend that has earned her millions of fans worldwide, including over 3 million on Instagram alone.

And the night won’t be hers alone.

A heavyweight supporting lineup

Before Mariah takes the stage, the arena will warm up with a power trio:

A-Reece, South African hip-hop royalty Lordkez, the genre-bending hitmaker behind “Aweh” Manana, one of the country’s most beloved R&B and soul voices

Together, they create a sonic palette designed to honour the day-one fans and welcome every new listener into Mariah’s universe.

Vertex Events: delivering another international moment

“JHB and PTA people – you asked for her, we heard you, and Mariah the Scientist agreed!” says Thato Segaole, Executive Director at Vertex Events.

He adds that conversations have been ongoing since early 2025 — and bringing this show to life marks another milestone in their commitment to delivering world-class experiences to South African audiences. “We’re preparing a special event to start the New Year with.”

Ticket details

Tickets will be available via Webtickets and Pick n Pay stores nationwide, starting from R690.

Gates open at 4PM on show day.

For official updates and announcements, follow:

@vertexeventssa (Instagram)

@vertexevents_sa (TikTok)

@VertexEvents (X/Twitter)

@VertexEventsSA (Facebook)

Mariah the Scientist can be found on all platforms as @mariahthescientist.

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