Know your artist ( Bhekinkosi Mabhena) DJ NITEFREAK

Nitefreak, born Bheki Mabhena, was born and raised in Barbourfields, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, in September 1991. This was where he developed a passion for music from a young age. He started out as a DJ and delved into music production later. He was influenced by various genres of music, such as hip-hop, R&B, reggae, dancehall, and house. Nitefreak recites artists like Timbaland, Dr Dre, Bob Marley, and Daft Punk as some of his early inspirations. He started DJing around 2010 when a friend introduced him to dee-jaying software [3] and quickly established himself in the local dance music scene. Nitefreak’s breakthrough came in 2014 when he released his debut single Enough, featuring SoulChard. The song caught the attention of Francis Mercier, the owner of Deep Root Records, who signed him to his label and became his mentor. In 2016, he released a house remix of the late Cal_Vin’s Hit Single Bebengakholwa. In 2017, he worked with Kemm Vocals and dropped Woza Kimi. The song topped the Skyz Metro FM chat for four weeks. It got a nomination for Best House/Gqom Song at the 2017 Skyz Metro FM Awards. The following year, Nitefreak collaborated with Mj Sings on Love Ye Mali. Through the song, he got the attention of South African Producer Dj Vestaa. They released Ghost together, which was the benchmark of his career. The song got a great reception from the house music community around the world, getting playlisted by Black Coffee, Shimza, and Kususa. Nitefreak has released several successful singles and EPs, such as ‘My Africa’, ‘Gorah’, and ‘Ike Onu’. His music has been featured on major Spotify and Apple Music playlists` and has been featured on Billboard, Forbes, and BBC Radio 1. Nitefreak’s music is characterised by a fusion of Afro-House and Progressive House, creating a unique and fresh sound that appeals to a global audience. He incorporates elements of African percussion, vocals, and melodies, with progressive synths, basslines, and grooves. He describes his music as “a journey of emotions, from dark and deep to uplifting and euphoric”. Nitefreak has also collaborated with some of the most influential artists in the Afro-House and electronic music scene, such as Magic System, Blond:ish, Amadou & Mariam, WhoMadeWho, and Diplo. He has also remixed tracks by artists like Vintage Culture, Gorgon City, and Nore en Pure. He has received support and recognition from legends like Black Coffee, Keinemusik, Tiesto, Calvin Harris, Pete Tong, and more.

n 2021, Francis Mercier, the owner of Deep Root Records, collaborated with Magic System to release a new version of Premier Gaou, featuring a remix by Nitefreak. The remix adds a fresh and modern touch to the classic with a blend of Afro-House and Progressive House elements. Nitefreak’s remix showcases his signature style of African percussion, vocals, and melodies, with progressive synths, basslines, and grooves. The remix also features a catchy drop that makes the song more danceable and energetic. The remix was well-received by fans and critics alike and became a hit on various platforms. It reached the Top 5 on Beatport and featured on major Spotify and Apple Music playlists, such as Mint, New Music Friday, Electronic Rising, Deep House Blend, and more. It also received support and recognition from legends like Black Coffee, Keinemusik, Tiesto, Calvin Harris, Pete Tong, and more. In March 2024, the song was certified gold in France.

Know your artist ( Mzobanzi Mlauzi ) Mzoe 7

Background He was born Mzobanzi Mlauzi on March 6, 1991. He grew up in Entumbane in Bulawayo.He is the last born in a family of seven children hence the moniker Mzoe 7. [1] Education Mzoe 7 attended Fatima High School in Dete for secondary education where he was interested in theatre and drama. [1] Career He was part of a little-known musical group Tyson Band where he was a backing vocalist, in a band which also features Otis Ngwabi. He has curtain-raised for Harare popular dancehall artist Winky D. In his professional work he had a stint at Bulawayo’s Radio Dialogue, a civil society organisation drumming up support for the establishment of community radio stations and has worked with Amehlo Arts, a group that used to deal with children and teaching them about peer pressure. He is also a motivational speaker and children from his neighbourhood in Tshabalala call him “Malume” .

He has a recording deal with House Rebels stable which has links with United States artistes, including worlds biggest house music producers, DJs, and singers at the Miami Winter Conference. In 2014, Mzoe missed a March trip to Miami due to financial challenges. Mzoe 7 has worked with a lot of local artistes in the city and these include KLAP, Leentatainment, Djembe Monks and POY. [1] The musician also doubles up as a fashion designer being the founder of the #Iskipa street apparel in 2015. [2] Mzoe 7 has been active in the music industry for over seven years. He has released over 15 singles, including the popular track “Kwasa Kwasa” in 2014, which helped establish his presence in the music Mzoe 7 had a good year in 2015, sharing the stage with high profile artistes like Jah Prayzah, gracing Ibumba and Intwasa Festivals and the Kalawa Home Coming party which saw African stars like Cassper Nyovest, AKA, Oskido and DJ Tira. Awards and Achievements In 2015, he got a Zimbabwe Music Awards nomination for best single of the year for his single I Cry Too.[2] Mzoe 7 is an all-rounder, excelling in music, acting, and choreography3. If you’re interested, you can check out some of his performances on YouTube: “OLD MUTUAL Flexi Celebration”: A live performance brought to you by OLD MUTUAL. You can watch it here4. “Mali”: An official music video featuring Mzoe 7, HiTKiiD, Maggie, and Master Zhoe. You can view it here5. “Ginimbi”: Another official music video where Mzoe 7 collaborates with Lance Hebron and Dagger Beats. Watch it here6. Discography Albums Moogu Village