Y is stepping into a new frequency — one driven by basslines, street energy, and the unstoppable rise of South Africa’s dance music culture. As the station unveils its 2026 line-up, one thing is clear: this is a bold, intentional shift toward the sounds shaping the streets right now.
At the heart of this evolution is a deeper investment in Amapiano, Afro House, and youth-led dance culture — with a new wave of voices and platforms designed to reflect the rhythm of a generation.
Uncool MC Brings Amapiano Culture to the Forefront
Leading this charge is the arrival of Uncool MC, who joins Y’s expanding digital universe with It’s an Uncool Show — a platform dedicated to unpacking the DNA of Amapiano.
More than just a show, this is an insider pass into the culture.
From behind-the-scenes conversations with producers and DJs to deep dives into the lifestyle, fashion, and street influence surrounding the genre, Uncool MC positions Y at the center of the Amapiano conversation — not just as a broadcaster, but as a cultural documentarian.
As Amapiano continues to dominate globally, Y is making it clear: the story of the sound will be told by those who live it.
Club Y Expands as the Soundtrack of the Streets
Y’s commitment to dance music is further amplified through Club Y, which continues to grow as both a radio and real-world movement.
With an expanded roster of DJs including DJ Tshegu, alongside Shakes & Les, Ggoldie, Venom, Rarri, DJ Pedabotic, Lesedi The DJ, Legendary Crisp, Just Mo, and DJ Samba, the mix show evolves into a high-energy platform where genres collide and new sounds are born.
After shutting down the streets last year, Club Y is gearing up for an even bigger cultural takeover this May — blurring the lines between radio, nightlife, and lived experience.
Shimza Returns Home with Karma Karma Radio
Saturday nights tap directly into the global Afro House circuit as Shimza brings Karma Karma Radio to Y.
A full-circle moment rooted in his early YTKO days, Shimza’s return signals a reconnection between Y and one of South Africa’s most influential dance exports — bridging local roots with international dance floors.
A Line-Up Built for Energy, Culture and Movement
Across the schedule, Y’s refreshed line-up reflects a deeper alignment with youth culture and music discovery.
From the daytime energy of The Way Up and The Glow Up, to the unfiltered edge of UNCENSORED, and the street-informed selections on The Agenda with DJ Sliqe & Roiii, the station is curating a seamless flow between conversation and sound.
Weekends, in particular, lean into rhythm and movement — with The Rizz spotlighting emerging voices, All Girls on Deck celebrating female DJs, and a consistent pipeline of mixes that keep the culture alive from day to night.
Beyond Radio: A Culture Platform in Motion
Y’s evolution extends beyond the airwaves. Through its “Beyond FM” strategy, the station continues to build a 360° content ecosystem that lives across digital, social, and real-world experiences.
Alongside Uncool MC, new digital property Money Talks hosted by Lerai expands the conversation into youth, finance, and the realities shaping the next generation — ensuring Y remains both entertaining and impactful.
The Legacy Continues, The Future Gets Louder
While Y welcomes a new wave, it also acknowledges the foundations laid by key contributors, including long-standing figures who have helped shape the station’s dance music identity over the years.
“This Is Where The Culture Is Going”
“This line-up is a true reflection of where we are as a brand and where youth culture is going. We’re constantly evolving, constantly creating, and always looking for new ways to connect with our audience. 2026 is about being louder, bolder, and more fearless than ever before. And Y NOT?” says Programme Manager Phindile Ziqubu.
Y 2026: Built for the Sound of Now
This is more than just a line-up.
It’s a cultural reset.
A dancefloor-first strategy.
A platform where Amapiano, Afro House, and youth expression collide.
Y is reloaded, re-energised, and locked into the rhythm of the streets.
The new line-up goes live from Wednesday, 1 April.
