In the vibrant world of Zimbabwean nightlife, few names command as much respect and admiration as DJ Iroq. Born Benard Fato in Harare, Zimbabwe, his rise to fame is a story of passion, resilience, and unmatched determination. From the confines of an administrative job in the accounts office at a local clinic to the pulsating beats of the city’s biggest clubs, DJ Iroq has crafted a legacy that resonates across borders.
It all began in a modest bedroom that doubled as a storage space for his uncle Ishmael’s PA system. While most teenagers dreamed of typical careers, young Benard was sneaking glimpses at the equipment, cleaning it, and experimenting with its controls. The seed of ambition was planted early, and when Zimbabwe’s economic hardships forced him to leave his clerical job at the Avenues Clinic, he knew it was time to follow his calling.
With Ishmael’s encouragement, DJ Iroq began as an extra hand at gigs, lugging equipment and observing seasoned DJs in action. His curiosity turned into hands-on experience as he learned the basics from his uncle before being mentored by the legendary DJ Storm. By 2008, he was spinning records at Ximex Bar, and in 2010, he secured his first formal DJ job at Qubana in Msasa. Sharing the stage with some of Harare’s finest, including DJ Divine and DJ Elroy, he proved his transformation from rookie to rising star had only just begun.
Winning the coveted Best Club DJ award at the 2023 Zim Hip Hop Awards catapulted DJ Iroq into the limelight. In a country where anyone with a laptop and controller can call themselves a DJ, this recognition was more than just a trophy—it was proof of his originality, dedication, and ability to energise a crowd. “This award revitalised my energy,” he says. “It pushes me to try new things, to aim for greater heights, and to keep evolving as an artist.”
Mashwede Village became a turning point in DJ Iroq’s career, not just as a performer but as a creative visionary. It was here that he brought to life ideas he had nurtured for years, blending music with marketing to transform the venue into a household name. Under his leadership, Mashwede’s club side became a flagship for the entire brand, making waves both locally and among Zimbabweans in the diaspora.
Yet, DJ Iroq’s passion extends beyond his own success. A staunch advocate for Zimbabwean hip-hop, he has championed a genre that often struggles to find mainstream acceptance. While Zimdancehall dominates the airwaves, hip-hop artists face challenges such as poor management and limited content appeal across demographics. “There’s still a lot of work to do,” he admits, “but I believe in the genre’s potential to grow and connect with every corner of society.”
His collaborations with icons like Jah Prayzah and Winky D have been instrumental in shaping his craft. Working with Jah Prayzah’s Military Touch Movement, DJ Iroq learned the intricacies of branding, artist management, and international stage presence. These lessons extended beyond DJing—he explored music production, merchandise creation, and the business side of showbiz, all while sharing stages with global superstars like Mafikizolo, Diamond Platnumz, and Koffi Olomide.
Internationally, DJ Iroq is expanding his horizons, leveraging diaspora bookings to build his global presence. Plans are in motion for a Mashwede international tour across Europe, America, and the Middle East. To solidify his footprint, he is diving into music production, preparing to release original tracks that will elevate his brand to new heights.
To aspiring DJs, DJ Iroq is both a mentor and a role model. “This can be a career,” he emphasises. “You can buy houses and cars from it if you’re committed. But it takes passion, a good attitude, and a lot of hard work.” His advice is practical—invest in equipment, develop complementary skills like graphic design and marketing, and always remain professional. Above all, he urges young DJs to stay grounded, avoid bad habits, and remember that success in the entertainment industry requires more than just talent.
DJ Iroq’s story is more than a journey from an accounts department to the decks; it’s a testament to the power of dreams, grit, and seizing opportunities. From a small bedroom in Harare to commanding the attention of audiences at home and abroad, DJ Iroq is proof that the right mix of passion and perseverance can create a hit. And for this king of the decks, the best is yet to come.
