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.