Online Reporter
Langelihle Dube, [email protected]
LIFESTYLE events in Bulawayo —from The Market Place to Garden of House in the CBD, and the ever‑popular HiNDE — continue to do more than fill weekends with colour and music. They have become vibrant cultural engines, drawing people out of their routines while quietly nurturing the city’s next generation of creatives. These social spaces, buzzing with energy and alive with possibility, have grown into unlikely but powerful launch pads for local talent.
Among the artistes steadily rising through this ecosystem is DJ and producer Innocent Mlilo, better known by his stage name “Datboifresh”. His growing reputation is built on sets woven with warmth, emotion, and a distinctly soulful flair — the kind of musical presence that doesn’t just entertain a crowd but gathers it, holds it, and leaves it glowing long after the last chord. In a city where nightlife tastes evolve quickly, Datboifresh has managed to carve out a place that feels both fresh and familiar, earning him a loyal following across Bulawayo’s most beloved venues.
This week, The Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub caught up with the fast‑rising artiste — a young man who began by tinkering with beats on a laptop and now finds himself commanding dancefloors while steadily nurturing a global audience. In conversation, he reflects on the journey so far, the inspirations that shape his sound, and the aspirations pulling him into the next chapter of his career.
Below is the interview:
Q: How did your journey in music begin?
A: By the age of 13, I was already creating music and experimenting with DJing. What started as casual sessions in FL Studio (FruityLoops) quickly turned into a passion. My earliest work leaned toward deep house infused with jazz elements, a style that later became part of my signature sound.
Q: How did your production style develop over the years?
A: As I mastered FL Studio and branched into new genres, I sharpened my production identity — rhythmic, soulful, and deeply connected to African sounds.
Q: Who inspires your sound?
A: I draw inspiration from icons like Kelvin Momo, Black Coffee, DJ Christos, and Kabza De Small. My sound spans soulful house, Amapiano, lounge music, and hip-hop influences, but at my core, I am a storyteller through rhythm.
Q: Who were your key mentors along the way?
A: After high school, I met Zulu Da Housemaniac, a seasoned producer who opened doors to a broader network of artistes and creatives. That mentorship was instrumental in elevating my craft from bedroom production to professional artistry. Later, I linked up with Kotwane Hikwa, one of Bulawayo’s best DJ/producers, which marked a turning point in my career.
Q: Tell us about DNAMusiQ and how it shaped your career.
A: Together with AkhonaMP, we formed the duo DNAMusiQ, blending our distinct styles into a fusion of deep house, Amapiano, soulful house, and Afro-House. This partnership marked the beginning of a more focused and professional chapter in my journey.
Q: What are some of your notable releases?
A: My catalogue includes Dlxla Phalaza, Isimanga featuring Yes God hitmaker Dearson & 8nine Muzique, Private Thoughts, and appearances on collaborative projects like the 8D Projects Instrumental Compilation.
Q: How has Bulawayo influenced your growth?
A: The Bulawayo music scene has been massive for me. Local events gave me the platform to connect with crowds, refine my style, and build a loyal following.
Q: How do you approach your DJ sets?
A: When preparing for a gig, I balance preparation with instinct. I curate musical journeys, but let the crowd’s energy guide the direction, responding in real time to moods, reactions, and the spirit of the night. I thrive in crowds that bring energy, openness, and a love for African rhythm.
Q: What challenges have you faced along the way?
A: Like many emerging DJs/producers, I’ve faced challenges with promotion, booking opportunities, and expanding my brand beyond Bulawayo. But my growth is undeniable, with more releases, bigger stages, and a rising footprint on digital platforms.
Q: Who has supported you through your journey?
A: Friends, collaborators, mentors like Zulu Da Housemaniac, fellow producers such as Kotwane Hikwa and AkhonaMP and fans, who resonate with my sound have formed the backbone of my journey.
Q: What’s next for Datboifresh?
A: I’m shaping new collaborations, fine-tuning upcoming mixes, and expanding my catalogue of original productions. I’m also focused on amplifying Bulawayo’s presence in the Southern African music scene.
