YMCA Launches New Global Anthem to Replace Village People Classic
The YMCA, one of the world's oldest and largest youth-focused charities with over 175 years of history, is stepping into a new era with a brand-new official anthem — Come Alive @ the Y.
Performed by The Big Y, featuring artists Ed Gar and Dominik The Storyteller, the song is described as a blend of soul, rhythm, and unity, honouring the organisation's past while speaking directly to today's generation.
Just like "YMCA" by Village People created a worldwide moment of joyful participation decades ago, Come Alive @ the Y aims to ignite that same spirit for today's generation. The song is upbeat, accessible, and built for movement, no choreography training required.
The initiative goes beyond just releasing a track. YMCA movements from countries around the world are being invited to film their own dance clips using just their smartphones and submit them for a chance to be featured as inserts in the official music video, built around The Big Y Parade. The hashtag #ComeAliveAtTheY is being used to unite the campaign across social media.
The initiative is a 50th Anniversary project from YMCA Malta, celebrating the organisation's presence in Malta from 1976 to 2026. A flagship live event, The Big Y, is scheduled for 19 September 2026 on Republic Street, Valletta.
The song is available as a free download for YMCA groups wishing to participate, and organisations can submit their dance clips via the campaign website at connect.ymcamalta.org/come-alive.
One Movement. Many Cultures. One Heartbeat.