by Jana Gous and Eben Labuschagne
Stellenbosch is a cool place, filled with cool people who live and breathe music. Holed up in bars across town, the Stellies music scene has nurtured an ever changing, ever hungry subculture based around the enjoyment of alternative music. Stellenbosch has long been a place where creativity thrives and its live music scene is a testament to that. Whether it’s the intimate, s w e a t – d r e n c h e d chaos of a r o c k gig at Aandklas, the beer-stained floors of Bohemia vibrating under the weight of a mosh pit, or the polished indie sound echoing through Daisy Jones Bar, this town’s music is a treat not likely to be passed over.
Here’s a closer look at some of the bands and artists who shape the local scene, where you can find them and the unique atmospheres of Stellenbosch’s favourite live music spots.
“Mosh”–a term that Oxford defines as “dancing to rock music in a violent manner involving jumping up and down and deliberately colliding with other dancers”– is a fundamental part of Stellenbosch’s rock and metal gigs. It’s a raw, high- energy form of expression and if you’re standing near the front, be prepared to either embrace it or step back.
Keep your ear on the ground–which is to say, your eyes–on Bohemia’s instagram feed, and you’ll be there to watch people throw and get thrown to the sound of dense, sweated and waterlogged guitar feedback. Newcomers, who are 18 and older, are welcomed with open arms. The only unwritten rule? Respect those around you. Bands such as Doomtrigger, The Lawnmowers (catch them when they aren’t servicing the Rooiplein) and The Man Motels play into this particular joy.
Aandklas is more than just a bar–it’s an institution in Stellenbosch’s music scene. Every year, they host Battle of the Bands, a crucible for new talent. In 2024, the band ThreeOhFive took home the title and 2025’s lineup is bound to be just as electric.
While English alternative music thrives in Stellies, the Afrikaans music scene is equally vibrant. The band GString is currently making waves with their latest album, Sonvlug, and will be performing in Stellenbosch on 15 February as part of their South African tour. They’re part of a broader movement of Afrikaans artists pushing boundaries, alongside bands such as Uncle Spike and Spoegwolf who craft emotive, storytelling-driven music.
Stellenbosch’s music scene is constantly evolving, shaped by the passion of musicians, fans and the venues that give them a stage. Whether you’re here for the mosh pits, the underground freestyles or just a good throwback setlist, Stellies has something for you. Just remember the golden rule — respect the people around you, and you’ll always have a place in
the scene.
