This is the biography of Nitefreak, a Zimbabwean DJ, producer and remixer who is at the forefront of the Afro-Progressive House movement. His musical journey began in 2009 as a self-taught artist, and since then he has received praise, play, and support from some of the biggest names in the industry, such as Diplo, Black Coffee, Keinemusik, and more. Nitefreak is managed by the Forbes-recognised label Deep Root Records and has collaborated with renowned acts like Francis Mercier, Blond:ish, and Amadou & Mariam. He has also composed music for the UFC’s official documentary for Francis Ngannou and was selected as one of 1001Tracklists’s ‘Future Of Dance 2022’ artists.
Nitefreak Early Life
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.
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Nitefreak Breakthrough
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.
Nitefreak Biography [Image: @nitefreakdj/Instagram]
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.
Success
Nitefreak Biography [Image: @nitefreakdj/Instagram]
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.
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Premier Gaou: Nitefreak Remix
In 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.
Nitefreak Biography [Image: @nitefreakdj/X]
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.
References
- DJ Nitefreak – Reverbnation
- The Rise And Rise Of Nitefreak – Sunday News
- Nitefreak: A Musical Journey…It’s Now Not At House Parties But At World Top Charts – Chronicle
