Y’s LYFE Returns With Shekhinah And AMA On The Bill

Joburg is getting another day dedicated to the sounds that sit just outside the obvious.

Y, formerly known as YFM, is bringing LYFE back to Marks Park in Emmarentia on Saturday, 31 October 2026, promising a full-day celebration built around music, culture and the artists pushing South Africa’s sound in different directions.

This year’s lineup puts South African talent at the centre, with Shekhinah, Thando Zide, Lusanda and Umzulu Phaqa among the featured acts.

However, LYFE is also looking beyond Mzansi’s borders.

Joining the lineup is AMA, the London-raised singer-songwriter formerly known as AMA LOU. Known for blending contemporary R&B with neo-soul, garage and drill influences, the artist brings an international flavour to a festival that remains firmly connected to South Africa’s alternative music scene.

Consequently, LYFE 2026 is shaping up as a meeting point for different sounds rather than a festival built around just one genre.

Behind the decks, Y’s own LesediTheDJ, Venom, Rarri, Fae-Fae and Fif_Laaa will add to the day’s alternative musical direction, while Ayanda MVP, Nia Brown, Hey Shawty, Karen Mthethwa and Tulz Madala will keep the crowd moving from the microphone.

According to Y Music Curator Codi Dinca, the intention is to take audiences on a musical journey that moves between familiar sounds and unexpected discoveries.

“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.

The musical programme will move across R&B, neo-soul, contemporary jazz and alternative genres, giving fans an opportunity to discover artists and sounds that might not always occupy the mainstream festival spotlight.

And because getting there early can sometimes mean missing out on the atmosphere, Y is giving early birds an incentive.

A specially priced early-arrival ticket is available through Webtickets, with discounted access for ticket holders who arrive by 1pm. Those arriving after 1pm will need to pay an additional fee at the door.

So, whether you’re there for Shekhinah, curious about AMA, following Y’s DJs or simply looking for a different kind of Saturday in Joburg, LYFE is bringing its own version of the city’s youth culture back to Marks Park.

LYFE 2026 takes place on Saturday, 31 October at Marks Park, Emmarentia.

In addition, other ticketing options will be available as well.

Tickets are currently available at Webtickets. See link below!

Follow Y across all social platforms for lineup drops, updates and behind-the-scenes sneak peeks and tune in on the YWorld App, OpenView, Yworld.co.za, DStv Channel 859 or FM 99.2.