By Zaward Likatho

Blantyre, September 14 (Mana) – Born Dorn Dickson Kalonga Thawani on December 8, 1991, Don Kalonga is a Malawian Afro-pop musician based in Lilongwe. His musical journey began in 2006, shortly after completing his primary school education, when he discovered his passion for singing.

Early Beginnings in Music

“I started doing music in primary school with my friend Aubrey Goodson, who is now a producer. Back then, he used to carry a guitar to school, and during break time, we would go to a place we called Mady’ombo, which had many trees. We would sit there and make music,” Kalonga recalled.

It was during this period that he met Vic One, who encouraged him to record a chorus for his song.
“He told me I had talent and that I should record a chorus on his track. I agreed but asked him to wait until I finished my primary school exams in 2006,” he said.

Later that year, Don Kalonga recorded his first collaboration with Vic One, titled “I Need You.” This also marked the beginning of his association with the Lilongwe-based twin producers, Chance and Austin Kabawo of C-ALL Records.

Breakthrough Moment

The year 2012 was a turning point in Kalonga’s career. He recorded the song “Ndikamakuwona,” which became a game-changer for him, both musically and within his family.

“At first, it was difficult to get my family’s support for my music. But after I recorded Ndikamakuwona, my uncle was so impressed that he gave me money to shoot the video. Since then, my family has fully supported my musical journey,” he explained.

Working with Dan Lu

Kalonga credits Dan Lu as one of the most influential figures in his career.
“I have achieved great things by working with Dan Lu, who also happens to be one of my mentors. Collaborating with him was a dream come true, and it really changed a lot in my music career,” he said.

He first met Dan Lu while attending Mangochi Secondary School.
“One day, as Dan Lu was passing by on his way to his home village, Balaka, my friends and I managed to stop him. I told him that I could sing, and he responded by inviting me to his studio. That’s how we met, and now he is like family to me. He is also my boss, as I am signed under his record label, Rockers Records,” Kalonga shared.

Musical Influences

When asked about his inspirations in the Malawian music industry, Kalonga mentioned Lucius Banda, Lulu, and Dan Lu.
“Back in the day, I admired Dan Lu and Lulu a lot because they were young artists with a huge fan base, and their music was incredible. As for Lucius Banda, he is a legend, and I have followed every song he has ever released,” he said.

Recent Projects

Don Kalonga has continued to grow in the industry, working with different artists and producers.

• He collaborated with Tricky on several tracks.
• He released a song with DJ OK Aisha, produced by DJ OK himself, which is now playing on local radio stations.
• He also worked with Kell Key on a new song.

With a strong passion for music and unwavering family support, Don Kalonga is steadily making a name for himself in Malawi’s music industry.