Zimbabwean Afro House trailblazer Nitefreak has spent more than a decade carving out a distinctive place in the global electronic music scene, blending African influences with the expansive sounds of Afro House and Afro-Progressive House. From his Gold-certified remix of Magic System’s ‘Premier Gaou’ with Francis Mercier to collaborations with Black Coffee, RÜFÜS DU SOL, BLOND:ISH and Amadou & Mariam, his rise has been marked by major releases, international support and millions of streams.
Now, with his latest single ‘Negra Soy’ alongside Zapapaya and La Negra Hawkins, as well as his Afroholic Records showcase at ADE 2026, Nitefreak continues to push African electronic music onto the global stage. We caught up with the producer to discuss the new single, his journey as an artist, the vision behind Afroholic Records and what comes next.
Paint us a picture: what sparked your passion for the arts in the first place? Was there a single moment or experience that solidified your decision to pursue this path?
I grew up surrounded by music because my father was a music teacher. A friend introduced me to FL Studio around 2010, and that opened up a whole new world. Later, hearing Black Coffee play my track “Ghost” was a turning point. It made me realise that my music could connect beyond Zimbabwe.
When you create, what leads the way – a feeling, a story, or the sound itself?
Usually a feeling or a sound that sparks an idea. My mood influences what I create, and a record needs to make me feel something. Sometimes a melody comes into my head; other times, hearing a vocal starts the whole process.
What’s in your toolkit? Share the gear, gadgets, or software you can’t create without.
A laptop, headphones and FL Studio. I started by drawing notes into the piano roll, and that became central to how I work. I value a strong original idea more than having an elaborate equipment setup.
What’s your go-to ritual or trick for getting into the creative zone?
I don’t force creativity. If I’m not feeling it, I give myself a break. When an idea comes naturally, I follow it. Knowing when to rest is just as important as knowing when to work.
What’s the one item you always keep within arm’s reach while creating or performing?
My headphones. They’re essential to how I listen, develop ideas and focus on the details in a record.
How did you ultimately end up defining your sound?
It developed through combining the electronic music I loved with African percussion and grooves. There’s a strong EDM influence in the structure, but slowing things down and bringing in those rhythms gives it a different feeling. That became my interpretation of Afro House.
How has your creative process or perspective shifted since you started your journey?
I started experimenting on a friend’s computer with very little equipment. I’m still learning, but better tools, collaborations and travelling have expanded my perspective. Working with people from different cultures introduces ideas I wouldn’t necessarily discover on my own.
Walk us through a recording session: what’s the most memorable moment you’ve had in the studio?
One memorable moment was making my “Ode Ireti” remix. The vocals immediately inspired a bassline, and once I started building it, the other elements followed naturally. When the piano chords came together, I knew the record had something special.
What are your opinions on generative AI music tools such as Suno? Is it something that aids in the creative process, or take away from it?
For me, the human connection comes first. I’m cautious about handing the creative process over to an algorithm. I want my records to come from my own ideas and feelings, because that personal connection is a big part of what makes music meaningful.
Are there any unexpected or dream collaborations hidden in your work?
The collaborations that excite me most bring different cultures and musical perspectives together. The best ones happen naturally, with each artist contributing something the other couldn’t have created alone. That exchange is what makes the result interesting.
Any side projects you’re working on?
Alongside producing and touring, I’m building Afroholic Records with Terrie and developing HiNDE. The label gives us a platform for authentic Afro House and emerging talent, while HiNDE brings that music and community together through events.
Who’s an emerging artist you think deserves more recognition right now?
Samuel Cosmic from Zimbabwe. I’ve spoken before about how much I believe in his talent. He has a strong musical identity, and I’m excited to see his music reach more people.
What’s the strangest or most surprising song currently on your playlist?
Honestly cant say which one
Which song, album or playlist do you never get sick of no matter how many times you listen to it?
Premier gaul
Are there any unexpected hobbies or projects you’re exploring outside of your main work?
Football and Go karting my go to hobbies. side projects I want to get into property.
If your life and career were an album, what would its title be, and what’s the hidden track only your fans would know?
“From Bulawayo to the World.” The hidden track would be “Still Mabhena.” Behind the touring and everything people see online, I’m still the same person who goes to the local shop in Crocs to buy bread.
Give us a glimpse into the future – what surprises or milestones are coming up for you this year?
I’m looking forward to bringing Afroholic Records to ADE with Amajoyo at Soulkitchen Amsterdam on 23 October. The label has already passed ten million streams, and taking that music into a showcase together is an exciting next step.
Famous last words?
Stay original, stay grateful, and keep creating.
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