Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma,Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Producer and wheelspinner Young DLC (real name Darlington Chikwewo) is proudly flying the Zimbabwean flag high, having grown into a continental powerhouse in African music production. He is celebrated for his versatile, genre-bending, African-influenced electronic sound, which has made him one of the most sought-after producers and collaborators across the continent.
With nearly a decade of experience in the industry, Young DLC has built a reputation not only as a producer but also as a DJ making waves regionally and internationally.
Born in Harare, Zimbabwe, and raised in Hatfield, his professional journey took off with a breakthrough on Coke Studio South Africa (2016), where he produced the track Run Away for Aewon Wolf and Jade McDonald.
He went on to become a two-time resident producer on Coke Studio Africa (2017 and 2019), where he collaborated with some of Africa’s biggest music stars, including Patoranking, Olamide, AKA, Yemi Alade, Kiff No Beat, Rayvanny, Khaligraph Jones, Nasty C, Runtown, Mr Bow, Rophnan, Eddy Kenzo, and many more.
Young DLC’s catalogue boasts several continental hits. His works include I Will Not Forget (2025) with Shaza, a viral hit that peaked at number one on Heart FM (Cape Town); Ngithanda Wena with DJ Maphorisa and Sha Sha, surpassing eight million YouTube streams, even without an official video; Be My Girl (2016) with Sylent Nqo – on the Algoa FM charts for 15 weeks, peaking at number 5; and Unozviziva (2023) featuring Nutty O which peaked at number 2 on StarFM, spending eight weeks in the Top 10.
In Zimbabwe, Young DLC has worked with Jah Prayzah, producing hits like Provhoka and Svovi on the 2021 album Gwara, both surpassing one million YouTube views. He also collaborated with Bryan K (2022 EP) and TiGonzi (Mufaro).
He further forms half of the electronic duo Matta Motto alongside Tristan Coetzee, a collaboration that has birthed projects with artistes such as Gigi Lamayne and Praiz (Nigeria).
Beyond the charts, Young DLC’s work has made waves on international platforms. He produced the opening sequence for BET Africa’s ISONO (2020), contributed to Disney’s Kizazi Moto: Generation of Fire (2023), and his productions featured in CNN’s Burna Boy documentary.
He has also worked on major campaigns for brands such as Oros, Google, Stanbic, KFC, and Nando’s. Signed to Sony Publishing South Africa in 2017, he later partnered with Next Music for independent releases.
Young DLC credits his father, Lazerous Chikwewo, for inspiring his career path.
“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 owned VOJ Studios, where many gospel artistes recorded in the early 2000s. That’s also where the TBA-produced Chigutiro compilation was recorded,” he said.
“While I have drawn inspiration from many individuals for various reasons, my underlying motivation has always been to connect with people and make my family proud.”
Looking ahead, Young DLC said working with celebrated names has taught him the value of collaboration.
“Collaborating with renowned artistes has taught me that success comes from a dedicated team, quality music, and strategic investment. Of course, sometimes luck plays a role too.” he reflected.
With his career on a steady rise, Young DLC’s vision is clear: “My ultimate dream is to become an internationally recognised DJ and producer. Right now, I’m focused on releasing my own music and promoting it across the right platforms. I’m happy to say this journey has been successful so far.”
With his futuristic ear for sound and determination to push African music to the world stage, Young DLC is cementing his place among the continent’s most innovative producers, while inspiring the next generation of DJs and artistes.
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