Bhekinkosi Mabhena, professionally known as Nitefreak, is a Zimbabwean DJ and music producer renowned for his innovative approach to Afro Progressive House. Born on September 21, 1991, in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, he has gained international recognition for his unique sound, which blends traditional African rhythms with modern electronic elements. Nitefreak is celebrated for his collaborations with global artists like Black Coffee and Diplo.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Bhekinkosi Mabhena |
| Date of Birth | September 21, 1991 |
| Place of Birth | Bulawayo, Zimbabwe |
| Nationality | Zimbabwean |
| Occupations | DJ, Music Producer |
| Labels | Deep Root Records Grooveland Africa Higher Ground (Mad Decent) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $500,000 |
| Awards | Roil Bulawayo Arts Awards, Skyz Metro FM Music Awards |
Early Life and Education
Nitefreak was born and raised in Bulawayo, where his journey into music began in 2009. He was introduced to FL Studio by a friend, which sparked his interest in DJing and production.
Initially self-taught, he refined his skills by learning from fellow producers and experimenting with beat-making. He started as a producer selling beats to local artists before transitioning into creating his own music.
Career
Nitefreak released his debut single Enough featuring SoulChard in 2014, marking the beginning of his solo career. In 2016, he gained traction with a house remake of Cal Vin’s hit single Bebengakholwa, solidifying his direction toward Afro House music.
His collaboration with Kemm Vocals on Woza Kimi in 2017 became a major success, staying at number one on Skyz Metro FM for four weeks and earning a nomination at the Skyz Metro FM Music Awards.
In 2018, Nitefreak experimented with Afro-pop through his collaboration with Mj Sings on Love Ye Mali, which received positive reception locally and internationally.
His career reached new heights with the release of Ghost, a collaboration with South African producer DJ Vestaa that gained global recognition within the house music community.
His single Paranoia, released under Union Records, was charted on Traxsource and playlisted by prominent DJs like Black Coffee and Shimza.
Nitefreak’s remix of “Premier Gaou” by Francis Mercier & Magic System in 2021 achieved Gold certification from France’s Syndicat National de l’Édition Phonographique (SNEP).
He continued to release hit singles such as Kamili, Pesa Esengo, and Gorah, collaborating with artists like Emmanuel Jal and Blond:ish. His music has been featured on major Spotify and Apple Music playlists such as New Music Friday, Deep House Blend, Afro House Nation, and Breaking Dance.
In May 2023, Nitefreak was recognized by 1001Tracklists as part of “The Future of Dance.” He also composed music for the UFC documentary about mixed martial artist Francis Ngannou.
Personal Life
Nitefreak maintains a private personal life. There is no public information about him having a girlfriend, wife, or children.
Nitefreak Net Worth
As of 2025, Nitefreak’s net worth is estimated to be around $500,000. His income comes from music sales, streaming royalties, live performances, collaborations with international artists, and brand endorsements.
Discography
Singles
- Enough featuring SoulChard (2014)
- Bebengakholwa (Remake) (2016)
- Woza Kimi featuring Kemm Vocals (2017)
- Love Ye Mali featuring Mj Sings (2018)
- Ghost featuring DJ Vestaa (2018)
- Paranoia (2018)
- Premier Gaou (Remix) (2021)
- Kamili featuring Francis Mercier & Idd Aziz (2023)
- Pesa Esengo featuring Claudia León & Bibi Den’s Tshibayi (2023)
- Gorah featuring Emmanuel Jal (2023)
- Savior featuring Mole & Coco (2024)
- Asara featuring Laureano & Bambo Cissokho (2024)
Collaborations
- Tracks with Blond:ish
- Remixes for Amadou & Mariam
- Compilation projects with Grooveland Records
Awards and Nominations
Roil Bulawayo Arts Awards
| Year | Category | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Outstanding Club DJ | Won |
| 2023 | Outstanding Ambassador Worldwide | Won |
| 2023 | Outstanding Male Artiste | Nominated |
| 2023 | Outstanding Song (Premier Gaou Remix) | Won |
| 2023 | Outstanding Kwaito/House/Gqom | Nominated |
Skyz Metro FM Music Awards
| Year | Category | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | Best Kwaito/Gqom (Woza Kimi) | Nominated |
