Johannesburg’s summer is about to get a whole lot hotter. Youth radio powerhouse Y has confirmed that its flagship music festival, LYFE, returns this December, headlined by international R&B star Sabrina Claudio, alongside local favourites Lloyiso and Manana.
Set to take place on Saturday, 6 December at Marks Park in Emmarentia, LYFE promises a full day of music, fashion and energy that reflects Joburg’s vibrant youth culture. The event is part of Y’s official summer launch, following the Club Y party in Melville the night before.
Claudio, known for her velvety voice and soulful hits such as Belong to You and Unravel Me, will bring her smooth R&B sound to South African shores for the first time. Her appearance marks a major coup for Y, which has steadily positioned LYFE as one of the city’s premier live music events.
Joining her on stage is South Africa’s own Lloyiso, whose emotional ballads and soaring vocals have earned him international acclaim, and Manana, the Swazi-born, Johannesburg-based singer and producer celebrated for his soulful storytelling and collaborations with artists like Ami Faku and Sun-El Musician. Together, the three artists headline a lineup that blends global appeal with homegrown soul.
Y’s Music Curator, Gcobisa Codi Dinca, said the festival is all about celebrating youth culture at full volume.
“Summer is already knocking, and Y is turning the heat all the way up with Club Y followed by LYFE this December. We are talking next-level vibes, the coldest fits and a lineup that is straight flames. It is all about great fashion, positive energy, good music and that signature Y flavor as always. Pull up, ’cause it’s gonna be a movie!” she said.
The festival will also feature performances from Y’s own talent roster, including Rarri, Fif Laaa, DJ FaeFae, Just Mo and more, a mix of DJs and performers who keep Y’s airwaves buzzing daily. From amapiano to R&B and hip-hop, organisers say the lineup reflects the sound of Joburg’s streets and the diversity of the city’s musical tastes.
Beyond the music, LYFE is billed as an all-day experience, with fashion, food and lifestyle activations designed to capture the spirit of summer. Y says fans can expect “unforgettable live performances, bold street style and that signature Y energy that defines the culture.”
The event runs from 12pm to 8pm, with gates opening at midday. Tickets go on sale tomorrow via Webtickets, and organisers have confirmed that no under-18s will be permitted.
As Y gears up for its biggest summer yet, LYFE is set to once again cement the station’s place at the heart of Johannesburg’s youth scene. “We are hard-launching December,and LYFE is where it all begins,” Dinca said.