Johannesburg is getting ready for a full day of music, culture and alternative sounds as Y, previously known as YFM, brings LYFE back to Marks Park, Emmarentia, on Saturday, 31 October 2026.
The annual celebration is set to put South African talent firmly in the spotlight while creating a space for audiences to experience the sounds shaping the country’s culture right now.
With a line-up spanning R&B, neo-soul, contemporary jazz and other alternative genres, LYFE 2026 promises a carefully curated musical journey featuring established voices, emerging sounds and an international presence.
South African Talent Takes Centre Stage
This year’s line-up features SA headliners Shekhinah, Thando Zide, Lusanda and Umzulu Phaqa, alongside other performers.
Joining them is UK-born singer-songwriter AMA, formerly known as AMA LOU.
The London-raised artist has carved out a distinctive space in contemporary R&B, blending soulful textures with elements of neo-soul, garage and drill. Her genre-fluid sound, striking artistry and international following add another dimension to a line-up that brings together different musical styles.
For LYFE, that combination creates a meeting point between South African sounds and an international perspective.
Alternative Sounds From Y
The music does not stop with the headline performances.
Y’s own LesediTheDJ, Venom, Rarri, Fae-Fae and Fif_Laaa will bring alternative sounds to the experience, adding to the day’s musical offering.
Keeping the energy moving from the stage and on the mic will be Y personalities Ayanda MVP, Nia Brown, Hey Shawty, Karen Mthethwa and Tulz Madala.
Their involvement adds the unmistakable Y personality and connection that audiences have come to know.
A Musical Journey Through Different Sounds
According to Y’s Music Curator, Codi Dinca, LYFE reflects Y’s continued commitment to showcasing both South African and international musicians.
“LYFE is an extension of Y’s ongoing commitment to showcasing South African and international musicians while creating an unforgettable experience that leaves audiences wanting more.”
Dinca says audiences can expect a musical journey moving between the familiar, the unexpected and the new.
The programme will feature genre-bending sounds across R&B, neo-soul, contemporary jazz and other alternative genres, with LYFE curated for lovers of alternative music.
The focus is also on bringing like-minded audiences together to discover, connect and celebrate the sounds shaping the culture.
Early Arrivals Get a Special Ticket Option
Y is also introducing a specially priced early-arrival ticket option for LYFE 2026.
Available through Webtickets at a discounted rate, the option requires ticket holders to arrive at the venue by 1PM.
Those arriving after 1PM will be required to pay an additional fee at the door.
Other ticketing options will also be available.
LYFE 2026: What You Need to Know
Date: Saturday, 31 October 2026
Venue: Marks Park, Emmarentia
Time: 10AM–8PM
Age restriction: No under 18s allowed
Tickets: Available through Webtickets
LYFE is set to bring together music, culture and alternative sounds for a full day in Johannesburg, with South African talent at the heart of the experience and international influence adding another layer to the programme.
For lineup announcements, updates and behind-the-scenes content, audiences can follow Y across its social platforms.
Listeners can also tune in via the YWorld App, OpenView, Yworld.co.za, DStv Channel 859 or FM 99.2.
LYFE takes place on Saturday, 31 October 2026, at Marks Park in Emmarentia.
