Since launching in 2020, Africa Now Radio has taken listeners on a sonic tour of the continent, with hosts interviewing some of African music's biggest names and brightest emerging artists. Each week the show counts down "The Big 5", the hottest new tracks of the week, alongside the biggest hits from across the continent.

For Y, described as one of the country's fastest-growing radio stations, the deal fits a larger ambition: expanding its audience while evolving its sound, and building a platform that reaches well beyond radio. "Y has always been at the forefront of connecting young South Africans with music and key cultural movements shaping our continent," said Managing Director Haseena Cassim. The partnership, she added, gives listeners a truly pan-African sound and gives African artists another stage for their stories, at home and abroad.

Madida said she was honoured to be adding to the station's legacy, and could not wait to share the sounds and stories coming out of the continent.

The show's reputation among musicians is strong. Rapper Focalistic said it gives African music space to live on a global stage, with "one of our own" giving a voice to the sounds of South Africa and beyond. Producer De Mthuda praised its celebration of Amapiano and other African genres "with the context and respect they deserve". Kwesta called it one of the most important platforms in the culture right now, one that gives African artists "a real seat at the table". Cassper Nyovest, Young Stunna and Sun-El Musician, who has appeared on the show, echoed the point: platforms like this let African artists tell their own stories and carry them to the world.

The guest list explains the praise. Africa Now Radio has interviewed Rema, Tyla, Ayra Starr, TxC, BNXN, Nasty C and Angelique Kidjo, among many others. Y joins an expanding syndication network that already includes Cool FM in Nigeria on Sundays at 7pm and YFM Ghana on Sundays at 4pm. The weekly cover star interview is also published by The NATIVE Mag.

From 1 November, tune in every Sunday at 1pm on Y via the YWorld App, yworld.co.za, OpenView HD, DStv Channel 859 or FM 99.2. The show is also available on Apple Music.