Young DLC: Zimbabwe’s Rising Force in African Music Production

Producer and wheelspinner Young DLC, born Darlington Chikwewo, is putting Zimbabwe firmly on the continental music map. Known for his genre-blending, African-influenced electronic sound, he has become one of the most sought-after producers and collaborators in Africa.

Hailing from Harare and raised in Hatfield, Young DLC began making waves in 2016 with Coke Studio South Africa, producing the track Run Away for Aewon Wolf and Jade McDonald. He went on to serve as a resident producer for Coke Studio Africa in 2017 and 2019, working with top African artists including Patoranking, Olamide, AKA, Yemi Alade, Kiff No Beat, Rayvanny, Khaligraph Jones, Nasty C, Runtown, Mr Bow, and Rophnan.

His production catalogue features several continental hits. These include I Will Not Forget (2025) with Shaza, which topped Heart FM in Cape Town; Ngithanda Wena with DJ Maphorisa and Sha Sha, amassing over eight million YouTube streams; Be My Girl (2016) with Sylent Nqo, which peaked at number 5 on Algoa FM charts; and Unozviziva (2023) featuring Nutty O, which reached number 2 on StarFM and stayed eight weeks in the Top 10.

In Zimbabwe, Young DLC has collaborated with top artistes such as Jah Prayzah, producing hits like Provhoka and Svovi from the 2021 album Gwara, both surpassing one million YouTube views. He has also worked with Bryan K (2022 EP) and TiGonzi (Mufaro). Alongside Tristan Coetzee, he forms half of electronic duo Matta Motto, producing projects with Gigi Lamayne and Nigerian singer Praiz.

Young DLC’s influence extends beyond music charts. He produced the opening sequence for BET Africa’s ISONO (2020), contributed to Disney’s Kizazi Moto: Generation of Fire (2023), and his work featured in CNN’s Burna Boy documentary. He has also produced for major brands including Oros, Google, Stanbic, KFC, and Nando’s. Signed to Sony Publishing South Africa in 2017, he later partnered with Next Music for independent releases.

He credits his late father, Lazerous Chikwewo, for sparking his passion. “My journey into music production began with my father, who owned a recording studio. His passion for music inspired me from an early age,” he said, referencing VOJ Studios, where many gospel artists recorded in the early 2000s.

Reflecting on his career, Young DLC emphasises collaboration. “Working with renowned artists has taught me that success comes from a dedicated team, quality music, and strategic investment. Sometimes luck plays a role too.”

Looking forward, his goal is clear: “My ultimate dream is to become an internationally recognised DJ and producer. I’m focused on releasing my own music and promoting it across the right platforms. This journey has been successful so far.”

With his innovative sound and dedication to pushing African music onto the global stage, Young DLC is cementing his position as one of Africa’s most influential producers while inspiring the next generation of DJs and artistes.