Lello Di Franco, better known as L.D.F., is a cornerstone of the Neapolitan underground and a name deeply rooted in house music culture. DJ, producer, label owner (Frole Records) and co-founder of Basic Frame Distribution, his journey spans decades of dancefloor experience, vinyl obsession, and forward-thinking sound.

With his new project ‘World Beats Vol.1,’ L.D.F. brings together a global cast – Jesse Bru, Rahaan and DJ Merci – to explore a deeper, rhythm-driven mood built from raw edits, forgotten classics and club-focused energy. It’s a record that reflects both his history and his constant search for new musical directions.

He stopped by to chat about all things VA, Naples influence, what vinyl means to him, and more!

WWD: You’ve been involved in music since the early ’90s – when you look back, what moments or shifts do you feel really shaped your identity as L.D.F.?

First of all I wanted to thank you for the space you are giving me. Well, definitely when I became the resident DJ at the “Nice To Be” party in Naples in 2014. I can honestly say I had the opportunity to express myself at one of the best parties in town.

WWD: ‘World Beats’ feels very intentional in mood and concept. What sparked the idea for this project, and why did now feel like the right time to launch it?

The idea was to propose something that I really felt, I’ve always enjoyed editing and it all started as a game. The project is my way of expressing my current tastes and my way of being within the music scene.

WWD: The record leans heavily into rhythm, edits and sampling from vinyl. Can you walk us through your creative process when turning an old or forgotten cut into something club-ready?

In this project the intention is to “dust off” old tracks and make them more current with the addition of synths, basslines and more but what I wanted to come out is precisely rhythm and groove.

WWD: This first volume brings together artists from Chicago, Berlin and beyond. What was important for you when choosing collaborators like Rahaan, Jesse Bru and DJ Merci?

I initially thought that it was not easy to involve artists in a project typically dedicated to editing and sampling but many liked the idea of collaborating. We can say that Rahaan is definitely a master at this, even though the resulting track has a lot of original sounds. I’ve also always been a fan of Jesse Bru and it was really amazing to have him on the project and then I think that DJ Merci is one of the best artists in the House scene at the moment.

WWD: You’ve always described yourself as musically eclectic. How do you balance honoring classic house and disco roots while still pushing forward sonically?

Eclecticism is my way to let roots evolve. House and Disco have a distinct soul, made of groove and culture, and my work always starts from there. The future of sound is a natural extension of that history: new technologies and new sounds serve to keep it alive, the balance lies in respecting the past while looking forward.

WWD: Naples has a deep musical identity but often flies under the radar internationally. How has your city influenced your sound, mindset, and approach to the scene?

Honestly, I think Naples is one of the most influential cities, there are contemporary and past artists who have contributed so much to the scene. For me was crucial, when I was a child my first approach was with the records of Pino Daniele and Napoli Centrale.

WWD: As a label owner and distributor, you see both the artistic and business sides of music. How has that dual role shaped the way you release and present projects like ‘World Beats?’

Basic Frame’s distribution network is made up of various external labels as well as several imprints we have created ourselves. We often find ourselves managing the entire process — from the creative phase to the production and sales of the final product — and this is truly fantastic because it allows us to leave our own imprint on what the final result will be.

Together with my partner Giacomo, we have recently channeled many of our musical ideas into the “Wave Makers” project, which we define as a record company capable of creating and developing our very best products. From this, the World Beats project was also born, and I couldn’t be happier about it.

WWD: You’ve shared booths with legends like Derrick May, Frankie Knuckles’ contemporaries, and Detroit icons. What lessons from those experiences still guide you today?

I was lucky enough to share the booths with absolute legends, both of those you mentioned created it all. They showed me that house and techno are more than genres, they’re culture, community, and storytelling. Every time I step into a booth, I carry that awareness with me.

WWD: In a time where digital tools dominate, what does vinyl still represent to you — creatively and emotionally?

Vinyl still represents that feeling and sense of authenticity that made all of us — no longer so young — fall in love with the music scene in the first place.

WWD: Looking ahead, is ‘World Beats’ an ongoing series, and what directions or sounds are you excited to explore next under this project?

We have a second volume planned and I’m working on other things but we will reveal the artists soon and hope to surprise you!

WWD: Sounds amazing! Thanks for the chat 🙂

‘World Beats Vol.1’ is available here