South African singer-songwriter Shaza returns with a powerful new single, “I Will Not Forget”, a collaboration with renowned Zimbabwean DJ and producer Young DLC.
Blending Afro-dance, pop, and heartfelt storytelling, the track is a vibrant celebration of resilience, gratitude, and the importance of remembering your journey.
Following the success of her hits ‘Happy’ and ‘Just Hold On’, Shaza’s latest release continues to build her reputation as a dynamic voice in African music, offering both infectious rhythm and emotional depth.
The story behind the collaboration is as spontaneous as it is inspiring. While on the road between Sedgefield and Knysna, Shaza heard a track featuring December Streets and Young DLC on Algoa FM. Instantly captivated by its energy, she made it her mission to find the producer behind the sound.
“I stalked him on Instagram,” she laughs. “Loved his music on Apple Music and then scraped together the guts to ask if he’d collaborate. And he said yes!”
From their very first call, a creative synergy emerged. “We share the same vision,” says Shaza. “Young DLC isn’t just incredibly talented; he’s fearless when it comes to pushing genre boundaries. That kind of creative freedom is everything.”
“I Will Not Forget” is built on that shared musical boldness. The production blends Young DLC’s signature Afro-dance style with Shaza’s soulful vocals and the unmistakable pulse of the African djembe drum.
“That drum isn’t just an instrument to me — it’s a voice,” says Shaza. “Its heartbeat grounds the song and ties it to the continent. That, layered with Young DLC’s genre-defying sound, gave the track a bold new life.”
Shaza & Young DLC brings a Soundtrack for Dreamers and Doers
Lyrically, the single is a reminder to reflect on how far you’ve come. Anchored by the hook “Surely, I will not forget,” the track encourages listeners to honour their progress, embrace the lessons, and keep moving forward.
“It’s for the dreamers, the go-getters, the ones who just keep showing up,” Shaza explains. “Even when you don’t win today, you try again tomorrow.”
The track also marks a shift in Shaza’s sonic direction — more introspective, more grounded — yet wrapped in an upbeat, high-energy Afro-pop aesthetic. “I’m releasing music single by single right now,” she says. “Each one has its own story, but together they’re weaving a bigger tapestry.”
Young DLC and Daniel Baron Add Production Firepower
The collaboration also features Daniel Baron, multi-platinum artist and HitKitchen founder, who co-produced the track. Baron’s production credits include numerous chart-toppers and three SAMA nominations, adding further weight to the release.
As for Young DLC, his credentials speak for themselves. The Harare-born producer has worked with the likes of Nasty C, AKA, DJ Maphorisa, Sha Sha, and Mlindo, and is a two-time Coke Studio Africa resident. His ability to blend African influences with global sounds makes him a perfect creative partner for this collaboration.
“I Will Not Forget” is now streaming on all major platforms — an energising and emotional anthem for anyone chasing a dream, finding their voice, or simply remembering where they started.
You can stream/download the track HERE.
Watch this space for updates in the Music News category on SA Music Zone.
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