Daecolm and Friends gig to elevate local talent globally

Renowned UK-based celebrity songwriter and artiste, Daecolm (Daecolm Holland), orchestrated a songwriting workshop in Bulawayo last year to assist local singers in crafting compelling songs. Returning to his roots, tomorrow, he will grace the stage at Something Inside in Burnside, collaborating with some of the talents he mentored.

Locals Brucella, Asaph, Da_Kudu, KBrizzy, Teeholla, Kyla Black, Bhekiwe, Low Kii V will perform with a live band, backing the headline performer, Daecolm while Arthur Evans will direct proceedings.

Having shared experiences and composed songs for American singer Chris Brown and other high-profile individuals, expectations are high for the “Daecolm and Friends” gig in Bulawayo.

Born in Harare, Daecolm relocated with his family to London and had a stint in New Zealand. But one thing remained the same according to the musician.

“The musical journey never really left here as the African sound is strong. It’s been a fun journey and through all these years, I feel like I’m just getting started,” Daecolm said during an interview on ZiFM Stereo earlier this week.

Speaking on the upcoming “Daecolm and friends” show, he said,

“The underlying concept is that I come from Zimbabwe and have had the opportunity to travel the world. Witnessing incredible talent among artistes, producers, writers, dancers and musicians here every day, I realise there’s so much potential unseen by the world. That’s the essence of ‘Daecolm and Friends’ – to showcase local talent and put them on the global map.”

“All I want to do is promote local talent because I believe we can truly make an impact globally. We have a unique sound and a close-knit community and even though we are small, I feel we can break through.”

Working with Chris Brown, Daecolm said happened unexpectedly.

“My connection with Chris Brown originated unexpectedly. While writing music for myself, a friend, Elijah Blake, played one of my records for Chris Brown. He loved the track and asked my friend if I would mind if he used it for his music.

“This was during the Heartbreak on a Full Moon album (Chris Brown album released in 2017) era. That’s when our connection began, and it led to me contributing three songs to the album. From there, people started suggesting, ‘Hey, let’s get into the studio.'”

Physically meeting Chris Brown, Daecolm said happened after the superstar’s show in London.

“I met him in London after his show, and we shook hands. I told him, ‘Bro, I did a couple of records for you,’ mentioned my name, and he invited me to a house party. We had a long conversation, almost 2-3 hours. Chris Brown gave me flowers, he said, ‘I just want to give you your flowers; you are one of the dopest voices and writers that I’ve heard in a while.’ From there, the following year, I was in LA, and he invited me to his house.”

As a producer, songwriter, and singer, Daecolm stands unparalleled, his artistry knows no bounds.

When it comes to deciding what to share, Daecolm explained, ‘I’ve enjoyed writing for a lot of people, and it’s perfected and crafted. I’m still growing my pen and at a time when I’m focusing on myself. I’m injecting the feeling into me, so many records I’m making are intentional for me.

“If I were to give away records all the time, it would be a disservice to my potential opportunities to pursue what I want to do. However, if someone shows interest, we’ll figure it out.”

Da_Kudu, a personal friend to the “Jungle” singer said he is ready to share the stage with Daecolm.

“I’m happy and ready to perform at the gig on Saturday. Music lovers will experience live music where I will be collaborating with Daecolm and KBrizzy. Besides the hits, ‘Awe Tsotsi’ and ‘Kiss Dilika’, the audience must be ready to be wowed with new content they haven’t heard before,” Da_Kudu said.

Da_Kudu said he is working on new projects with Daecolm which he cannot wait for people to hear.

“Working with Daecolm at the studio has been amazing. It has culminated in us releasing a song on his latest EP, which features Rhymes BPM. We’ve also been working with international superstars since Daecolm is venturing into music production as well.

“Notable names that he has been co-producing for include Omarion, Elijah Blake, Tshego, and Tems,” said Da_Kudu.

Daecolm and Da_Kudu’s working relationship has seen the pair collaborate for the latter’s EP titled, AfroJams Labangane.

The gig will present a perfect opportunity for local acts to learn from Daecolm with the prospect of taking their craft to the next level. – @MbuleloMpofu