Zaytoven, born Xavier Lamar Dotson, is an influential American record producer, DJ, and pianist who gained widespread recognition for his work in the hip-hop industry, particularly through his collaborations with iconic rapper Gucci Mane.
His rise to fame can be traced back to his distinctive production style, which helped shape the Atlanta trap sound that has since become a dominant force in the genre.
Known for his extensive contributions to trap music, Zaytoven’s work with artists such as Migos, Future, Usher, and Nicki Minaj further solidified his standing in the industry.
Early Life and Education
At 44 in 2024, Zaytoven was born on January 12, 1980, in Frankfurt, Germany, where his father was stationed in the military. His family later relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, where Zaytoven would go on to make his mark in the hip-hop world.
Growing up in Atlanta, he was exposed to various musical influences, thanks to his church background and early musical training in piano, a skill he still incorporates into his production today.
Although details about his parents and siblings are limited, his father’s role as a preacher and his mother’s influence significantly shaped his upbringing.
Zaytoven attended high school in Atlanta, and though information about his further education is sparse, he pursued his passion for music, honing his craft by working with local artists. His Christian faith has also remained central to his life and career.
Personal Life
Zaytoven is married to Stephanie Dotson, and the couple shares two children: Xavier Dotson Jr. and Olivia Dotson. He has been very private about his family life, choosing to shield them from the public eye. However, he has spoken about balancing his career with his personal life and being a good role model for his children.
Zaytoven and his wife met before he gained significant fame, and they have remained together through the ups and downs of his career. While his personal life has stayed relatively drama-free, his relationship with his family, especially his children, remains one of the cornerstones of his life.
Career
Zaytoven’s career began when he started producing music in his basement studio after moving to Atlanta. His breakout came when he began working with Gucci Mane in the early 2000s.
The two formed a strong partnership, with Zaytoven producing many Gucci Manes hits. This collaboration put him on the map, particularly after the release of “So Icy,” one of Gucci Mane’s most successful tracks.
Beyond Gucci Mane, Zaytoven expanded his portfolio by working with major hip-hop and R&B artists, including Migos, Future, and Nicki Minaj.
His production style, characterized by heavy 808s and melodic piano riffs, helped define the trap sound, which became increasingly popular in the late 2000s and beyond.
In addition to his music career, Zaytoven has ventured into acting and film scoring, appearing in independent films like Birds of a Feather and contributing to soundtracks. His work has earned him respect not only as a producer but also as a multi-talented musician.
Awards
Grammy Award (2011): Co-producer for Usher’s Raymond v. Raymond
Net Worth
Zaytoven’s net worth is estimated to be around $6 million. His wealth comes primarily from his extensive work as a music producer and DJ and his ventures in film and other entertainment projects.
He has also earned significant income from collaborations with high-profile artists and his contributions to chart-topping albums and mixtapes.
Filmography
– Birds of a Feather
– Weed Man
– All Mine
– Confessions of a Thug
– Finesse the Movie
Discography
– Trap Holizay (2018)
– A (with Usher, 2018)
– GloToven (with Chief Keef, 2019)
– Zaystreet (2020)
– Where Would the Game Be Without Me series
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