Y is stepping into 2026 with intent, energy, and a fearless vision for the future. More than just a radio station, Y is positioning itself as a living, breathing ecosystem of youth culture — and its newly unveiled line-up proves exactly that.
This is not just a schedule refresh.
This is a cultural reset.
A NEW ERA — LOUDER, SHARPER, UNAPOLOGETIC
After a year of audience growth and sonic evolution, Y is doubling down on what it does best: discovering voices, shaping conversations, and moving culture forward.
The 2026 line-up signals a deliberate shift — one that is louder, sharper, and more intentional, reflecting the pulse of a generation that refuses to be boxed in.
And at the heart of it all? New energy meeting legacy impact.
THE GLOW UP: A NEW MID-MORNING POWER MOVE
Mid-mornings take on a fresh identity as Karen Mthethwa steps into the spotlight with THE GLOW UP (09:00–12:00).
Her arrival marks the beginning of a bold new chapter — one that celebrates evolution while honouring the journey. As the station bids farewell to long-serving voice Xtremme after more than a decade, the baton is passed with purpose, signalling growth, renewal, and forward momentum.
UNCENSORED JUST GOT MORE UNFILTERED
Weekday nights are about to get louder.
Media force Barbara ‘Baxbara’ Moagi joins Tulz Madala on UNCENSORED (20:00–22:00) — a pairing built for disruption.
Expect bold conversations, fearless opinions, and a chemistry that refuses to play it safe.
As this new era begins, the station also bids farewell to Dimpho Makgotho, whose four-year contribution helped shape the voice of Y’s evening landscape.
HIP HOP ENTERS A NEW GOLDEN ERA
Sunday nights are getting a powerful injection of authenticity as DJ Sliqe and Roiii take over THE AGENDA (19:00–22:00).
This is more than a show — it’s a cultural checkpoint, spotlighting the sound, stories, and street energy shaping hip hop right now.
SATURDAYS REIMAGINED: WHERE CULTURE MEETS DISCOVERY
A fresh voice enters the mix as Munaka takes the reins on THE RIZZ (17:00–18:00) — bridging the gap between rising stars and what’s next in the streets.
Meanwhile, global dance icon Shimza returns home in a full-circle moment with Karma Karma Radio (21:00–22:00) — a nod to his roots on Y’s YTKO mix platform.
Adding to the momentum, KMass steps into the weekend spotlight with The Mass Takeover (10:00–14:00), bringing fresh energy to daytime radio.
THE HEARTBEAT REMAINS UNSTOPPABLE
While the line-up evolves, some pillars remain unshaken.
THE WAY UP (05:00–09:00) with Nia Brown and Okay Wasabi continues to define morning radio, setting the tone with energy, culture, and connection.
HOME RUN (15:00–18:00) with Ayanda MVP and Sinaye Kotobe remains a dominant force — the soundtrack to South Africa’s afternoons.
Together, these flagship shows anchor the station’s identity, delivering moments that resonate deeply with listeners across the country.
CLUB Y: STILL RUNNING THE STREETS
Off-air and on-air, Club Y continues its reign.
With an expanded DJ roster — including the addition of DJ Tshegu alongside Shakes & Les, Ggoldie, Venom, Rarri, DJ Pedabotic, Lesedi The DJ, Legendary Crisp, Just Mo, and DJ Samba — the platform is bigger, louder, and more influential than ever.
After dominating the streets last year, Club Y is set to shake things up again this May.
As the brand evolves, Y also bids a heartfelt farewell to club culture pioneer DJ Zan-D, whose legacy remains deeply embedded in the station’s DNA.
BEYOND FM: A DIGITAL UNIVERSE EXPANDING
Y’s influence no longer stops at radio.
Through its “Beyond FM” strategy, the station continues to expand into a full-scale digital content network. Building on shows like Tell Us Y and Culture Locked, two new additions enter the space:
- Uncool MC with It’s an Uncool Show — diving deep into amapiano culture
- Lerai with Money Talks — unpacking youth, money, politics, and real-life pressures
This is Y in its next form — always on, always evolving, always connected.
MORE THAN RADIO — A MOVEMENT
From GRYND to LYFE to First Touch, Y’s iconic events continue to define youth culture on the ground, creating experiences that go beyond sound and into lived moments.
And according to Programme Manager Phindile Ziqubu, the mission is clear:
2026 is about being louder, bolder, and more fearless than ever before.
THE TAKEOVER BEGINS
The new line-up officially goes live on Wednesday, 1 April 2026, across multiple platforms including the YFM App, yfm.co.za, OpenView HD, DStv Channel 859, and FM 99.2.
FINAL WORD
This isn’t just programming.
This is a statement.
A shift.
A declaration of intent.
🔥 This is Y — reloaded, re-energised, and ready to lead.
And if the future of youth culture has a sound…
It just got a whole lot louder.
