In the vibrant world of Zimbabwean music, one name stands out as a true legend, DJ Lyle Dash. With an incredible 16-year journey behind him, this Bulawayo-born, Joburg-based DJ has been making waves with his electrifying performances and genre-bending sound. From humble beginnings to sold-out shows, DJ Lyle Dash (LB) is a true master of his craft.

In this exclusive interview, we sit down with the man behind the mic to talk about his passion for music, the inspiration behind his iconic sound, and what’s next for this dynamic DJ.

TR: Can you introduce yourself and tell us a bit about what gets you tickin’ as DJ Lyle Dash?
LB: Mmmh, who am I? I’m Lyle Khamal-Bosch, known to many as “Dash”. I’m a DJ who grew up in Bulawayo, where my journey started, and now I’m based in Joburg, South Africa. Music has always been part of me—from DJing to now getting deeper into production. What really keeps me going is the love for music and seeing people connect, dance, and create memories through my sets.

TR: How does it feel to have your hard work recognized in Bulawayo?
LB: It means a lot because the love back home is real. This industry isn’t for the faint-hearted you have to put your mind, body, and soul into it, and there are always risks. Sometimes it’s not easy or even worth it on paper, but we do it for the people. The support I get in Bulawayo keeps me coming back to give that same energy and love right back.

TR: You’ve been in the game for 16 years, and recently changed your stage name from DJ Dash to DJ Lyle Dash. What inspired this change?
LB: Yoooh, 16+ years and I still get asked for my ID sometimes…. it’s crazy! But yeah, the name change was about growth. I wanted to rebrand and move beyond just “DJ,” especially as I expand into other projects. “Lyle Dash” feels more personal and represents where I am now creatively and where I’m heading in the future.

TR: You’ve performed at numerous events, including the sold-out Old School event at BG (Barham Green)Hall. What makes this venue so special to you?
LB: BG (Barham Green) is home for me. I grew up there, I’ve seen it evolve from the ground up, from just a slab to what it is now. I’ve attended parties there as a kid, so performing there now hits differently. It’s personal. Preparing for shows now comes naturally before I used to get nervous, now it’s second nature. Of course, there’s always work behind the scenes like marketing, but once I’m on stage, it just flows.

TR: You’ve earned the reputation of being a crowd-pleaser. What’s your secret?
LB: I’m honestly humbled by that. I think it comes down to experience and energy. I feed off the crowd, and they feed off me. I always try to give people what they came for to dance, enjoy themselves, and create memories. I also interact a lot and stay open to feedback, even the negative, because that’s how you grow.

TR: As a DJ, producer, and mixer, what’s currently topping your playlist? Any collaborations?
LB: Right now, there’s a lot happening behind the scenes. As a promoter, I’ve got events lined up with my big brother Barry Weber he’s someone who’s been part of my journey from the start. On the production side, I’ve been quiet since my last track Danger with Kazz, which even got featured on BBC.
Musically, I’m known for dancehall, R&B, hip hop, and house, but right now I’m really feeling the 3-step/Afrohouse wave—the SA vibe has definitely influenced me. My current go-to track is Hugel – Jamaican Bam Bam—that one always gets me moving.

TR: This holiday season is around the corner – what are your plans?
LB: I’ve got a resident spot in Joburg where I play every second Saturday, plus other bookings depending on the schedule. I’ll also be back in Zimbabwe on the 2nd of May for Club Nights at Old Miltonians. I’ll be sharing the stage with legends like Victor Bravo and Witchdokta, so I’m really looking forward to that one.

TR: Looking back on your 16-year journey, what advice would you give to aspiring DJs and producers?
LB: Stay humble and stay hungry. Take all the advice you can get and keep learning because it never stops in this industry. Build real connections with people and always appreciate the crowd—they’re the reason you’re where you are. Be patient, stay consistent, and put in the work, even when no one is watching.

TR: What’s the story behind your iconic sound, and how do you keep it fresh?
LB: My sound is about balance—Iu try to keep it familiar but still bring something different. I’m heavily inspired by 90s and 2000s music, but I mix that with newer sounds like Afrohouse and 3-step. I like to keep it normal but still extraordinary. Keeping it fresh is about evolving, staying open to new sounds, and trusting my own style while still giving the people something they can connect with.