Don Delicious, an up-and-coming DJ from South Africa specializing in Afro-House and Amapiano, opens up to us ahead of his first show in Brussels. The Standard is excited to share this moment with him as he takes over our weekly Late Nights at Lila29.
In the past few years especially, Afro-House and Amapiano have grown rapidly across Europe. What do you feel you bring to the genre that sets you apart?
What sets me apart is that I don’t just play music, I tell a story. Every set is an emotional journey inspired by where I come from. Growing up in South Africa, music has always been part of everyday life, so I bring that authenticity with me. I also come from a fashion and creative direction background, so I think about the entire experience: the energy, the atmosphere, the style, and how people feel when they leave the dance floor. I want every performance to feel memorable, not just entertaining.
Music is a foundational part of South African culture. What memories or emotions does it evoke in you personally?
For me, music represents joy, resilience, and community. Some of my earliest memories are hearing music at family gatherings, celebrations, and in the streets. South Africans use music to celebrate, to heal, and to bring people together regardless of their backgrounds. Every time I play, I carry those memories with me. It’s a reminder of home and of the incredible culture that shaped me.
Which aspects of South African music and nightlife culture do you hope to see take root and develop in Europe?
I would love to see more of the community spirit that exists in South African nightlife. It’s not only about partying, it’s about connection, dance, and shared experiences. I also hope Europe continues embracing the diversity of African sounds beyond trends. There are so many incredible artists, producers, and DJs from South Africa, and I hope they receive more opportunities on international stages while staying true to the culture that created the music.
This is your first time performing in Belgium. What made you excited to come to Brussels, and why did you choose The Standard as your first venue?
I’ve always heard great things about Brussels as a city where different cultures come together, so I was excited to finally experience it. The Standard immediately stood out because it has built a reputation for creating experiences that blend music, art, fashion, and culture. That aligns perfectly with my vision as an artist. Being able to introduce my sound in a space like this makes my first performance in Belgium even more special.
Beyond DJing, you also work as a stylist. Fashion and music have always
influenced one another. How do you bring these two worlds together in your own work?
For me, fashion and music are different languages that tell the same story. As a stylist, I understand how clothing can express confidence, identity, and emotion. As a DJ, I use music to create those same feelings. Whether I’m behind the decks or styling a campaign, I’m always thinking about creating a complete experience. The visual and the sound should work together to leave a lasting impression.
Your moniker, “Don Delicious,” carries a lot of personality. What is the story behind the name, and how does it reflect the persona behind the decks?
The name “Don Delicious” represents confidence, creativity, and good energy. “Don” is about leadership and presence, while “Delicious” reflects bringing something enjoyable and unforgettable to people. Whether it’s through music, fashion, or creative projects, I want people to leave feeling inspired and connected. Behind the decks, I bring positive energy, authenticity, and a genuine love for making people dance.
Are there any upcoming projects or tracks that we can look forward to?
Definitely. I’m currently working on new music that continues exploring Afro-House while blending different African influences and global sounds. I’m also expanding my creative work across fashion and music, with more international collaborations and performances planned. My goal is to keep building bridges between African culture and audiences around the world, so there’s a lot to look forward to.
Want more? Discover the upcoming DJ lineup at Lila29 here and plan your next Saturday night.
