D.H Credits Early Piano And Drum Lessons For His Studio Independence

Ghanaian musician D.H has credited his early musical education for allowing him to produce, mix and master much of his own music without relying heavily on other people in the studio.

Speaking on Culture Daily on 3Music TV and Pluzz 89.9 FM, D.H said his musical journey began in primary school, where he learned to play the piano before taking up the drums. He later started producing music at the age of 11.

“I started learning the piano when I was in primary school,” he said. “I went into producing when I was 11.”

D.H said learning instruments gave him the technical foundation needed to develop as both an artist and producer. On his latest EP, he co-produced two songs and also handled the mixing and mastering himself.

“I produce some of my own songs as well. I mix and master engineer everything myself,” he said.

He believes that understanding music theory and production gives him greater creative control over his work.

“I’m able to implement what I envision on my own. I don’t really need too many people in the studio," he said.

D.H described his sound as a blend of Afrobeats, hip-hop and trap, influenced by artists including Gunna, Drake, Asake, Davido and Ghanaian musician Darkovibes. He said his musical direction also reflects the music he grew up listening to at home.

“My mum definitely likes a lot of Afrobeats, Afro soul and R&B,” he said.

Rather than copying existing artists, D.H said he aims to create a distinctive sound.

“I’d say it’s a breath of fresh air. I don’t think I literally sound like anyone else,” he said when asked to describe his music.

The musician said production is always the starting point for his songwriting process before he develops melodies, cadence and lyrics to match the instrumentals.

For D.H, each song should offer listeners a different experience rather than repeating the same vocal delivery.

“Every track has a different flow, different vibe. Every track needs to have its own experience,” he said.