Johannesburg is set for another major celebration of music and youth culture as Y, formerly known as YFM, prepares to bring its LYFE festival back to Marks Park in Emmarentia on Saturday, October 31, 2026.

The annual event is expected to draw music lovers for a full day of live performances, alternative sounds, culture and entertainment, with this year’s programme placing South African artists at the centre of the experience.

Among the headline acts announced for LYFE 2026 are Shekhinah, Thando Zide, Lusanda and Umzulu Phaqa, who will be joined by London-raised singer-songwriter AMA.

Formerly known as AMA LOU, AMA has developed a distinctive sound rooted in contemporary R&B while incorporating elements of neo-soul, garage and drill. Her appearance adds an international dimension to the festival and brings together musical influences from South Africa and the United Kingdom.

The festival’s programming will also extend beyond its headline performances. Y’s LesediTheDJ, Venom, Rarri, Fae-Fae and Fif_Laaa will contribute alternative sounds to the day, while Y presenters Ayanda MVP, Nia Brown, Hey Shawty, Karen Mthethwa and Tulz Madala will host proceedings.

Organisers say the event has been designed to offer audiences more than a conventional concert, with the programme moving across R&B, neo-soul, contemporary jazz and other alternative genres.

“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.This year, attendees can expect to embark on a musical journey that moves between the familiar, the unexpected and the new, featuring genre-bending sounds across R&B, neo-soul, contemporary jazz and other alternative genres. Carefully curated for lovers of alternative music, LYFE brings like-minded audiences together to discover, connect and celebrate the sounds shaping the culture” stated Y’s Music Curator, Codi Dinca.

For festival-goers looking to get an early start, Y has introduced a specially priced early-arrival ticket. Available through Webtickets at a discounted rate, the option requires ticket holders to arrive at the venue by 1pm.

Those who arrive after 1pm with an early-arrival ticket will have to pay an additional fee at the door. Other ticketing options are also available for attendees who do not opt for the early-arrival offer.

With a line-up spanning established South African performers, emerging alternative voices and an international guest, LYFE 2026 is positioned as a showcase of the evolving sounds influencing the country’s youth culture.

Tickets are currently available through Webtickets, while Y is expected to share further line-up announcements, festival updates and behind-the-scenes content across its social media platforms in the lead-up to the event.

Audiences can also follow the festival and Y’s programming through the YWorld App, OpenView, Yworld.co.za, DStv Channel 859 and FM 99.2.

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT LYFE

Date:    Saturday, 31 October 2026
Venue:  Marks Park, Emmarentia
Time:    10AM – 8PM
Age:      No under 18s allowed
Ticket:   Secure HERE