Rising Hip-Hop Star McDrot Aims to Inspire Throu...

Rising Hip-Hop Star McDrot Aims to Inspire Through Music

Rutendo Mazhindu

Zim Now Reporter

At just 22 years old, Dedan Ropafadzo Jaden McLaren, better known by his stage name McDrot, is making waves in Zimbabwe’s burgeoning Hip-Hop scene. With his introspective lyrics, electrifying performances, and a vision that extends beyond music, McDrot is quickly becoming an influential force in the industry.

His passion for music began early, nurtured by melodies that shaped his artistic identity. But it’s not just the sounds that influence him; McDrot is deeply inspired by the unspoken, raw aspects of human emotion.

“I’ve always been drawn to the dark, unsaid side of people,” he shares. “Music became my way of giving those thoughts a voice.”

At the age of 18, McDrot wrote his first song, Once Upon a Heartbreak, a deeply personal track that set the tone for his career. Since then, he has refined his craft, honing his storytelling abilities and developing a unique style that blends emotional depth with powerful lyricism.

McDrot’s first major performances took place in Zvishavane while he was a student at Midlands State University. However, it was his recent appearance at Rufaro Stadium in Harare for the SWAN launch, where he shared the stage with music icons like Winky D, Macheso, and Saintfloew, that solidified his position in the industry.

“The energy of performing live is something else,” McDrot says, reflecting on his growth as an artist. “I want my shows to be more than just music—I call it ‘Extract and Match,’ where I connect with the audience through storytelling, visuals, and pure vibes.”

His songwriting is deeply personal, often inspired by his own life experiences, relationships, and even the people he encounters.

“I usually start with a statement or a song title, and then everything else flows from there,” he explains. One of his standout tracks, Vanhu Havazorore, was inspired by the resilience he observes in the people around him.

McDrot’s influences range from local to international artists. “Dax has been a huge inspiration for me, especially in terms of raw lyricism and storytelling,” he shares.

“Locally, Ti Gonzi, Saintfloew, Bagga, and Holy Ten have all shaped my approach to hip-hop. And then there’s Jah Prayzah—his ability to blend styles and reach diverse audiences is something I deeply admire.”

While his short-term focus remains on releasing new music, touring, and expanding his audience, McDrot has bigger dreams. “I want to create a platform for underprivileged artists to be heard,” he says, driven by a desire to empower other emerging talents.

“One day, I hope to build a multimedia infrastructure that offers sound recording, visuals, and everything needed to uplift hidden talent.”

Guiding McDrot on the business side of his career is his manager, Denzel Madhuku, known in the industry as Duke Apparel. “Duke has been instrumental in helping me navigate the industry while making sure my music stays authentic,” McDrot says.

“Having someone who understands both the creative and business aspects is invaluable.”

McDrot’s philosophy is rooted in staying true to his vision. “Staying authentic is everything to me,” he emphasizes. “People were made different, and everyone plays a role in helping each other grow. We just have to recognize that.”

With his immense talent, passion, and clear sense of purpose, McDrot is poised for greatness. His music isn’t just entertainment—it’s a message, a movement, and an open letter to the world. As he continues to rise, one thing is certain: McDrot is an artist to watch.