Nitefreak (@nitefreakdj) is a producer from Africa. Not too long ago, he reunited with Afro-house collective helmed by Sean Thomas, AKA &friends, and key vocal collaborator, Phina Asa, for a joint release, entitled, “Ike Onu,” via acclaimed international dance brand Tomorrowland’s record imprint. The track sees Nitefreak’s first reunion with &friends make its way to listeners since the viral remix of “Ode Ireti” in 2022.
Nitefreak, &friends, and Phina Asa – “Ike Onu”
“The idea behind this song was that I thought about the world today, and how it doesn’t look how it used to. It’s getting more challenging and complex, and in life, we can’t thrive on our own without any help. We need people to support us, push us, hold us accountable, and help us grow.” – Phina Asa explained
“Ike Onu” means ‘Stronger Together’ in the native African language of Igbo. The song is smooth and soulful, with Phina Asa’s vocals making their way back to the &friends’ soundwaves for the third time this year, following up her first single, “Dangerous.”
The poignant percussive track boasts signature sonic elements that belong to both &friends and Nitefreak all on their own but finds their way to the same track in perfect harmony. The lyrics of the song are heartfelt, reflecting on the challenges of the modern world while recognizing the complexity of life and the importance of unity and collaboration for growth and resilience. The meaning of the track aptly demonstrates the continued creative partnership that has put both Nitefreak and &friends’ productions on a world stage.
Nitefreak
Bringing a fresh and unique approach, Nitefreak is at the forefront of the Afro-Progressive House movement. He is managed by the Forbes-recognized label, Deep Root Records, and has since then seen a large upswing in global popularity. His music has been featured on massive Spotify and Apple editorial playlists such as Spotify’s New Music Friday, Electronic Rising, Deep House Blend, and Haitian Heat.
From releases records with Francis Mercier and Magic System on Spinnin Records to collaborating with Blond:ish and the 3-time Grammy-nominated duo, Amadou & Mariam, Nitefreak has amassed millions of streams. He was also selected as one of 1001Tracklists’ Future Of Dance 2022 artists and continues to make international waves across the underground electronic music scene.
&friends
&friends is the musical concept and brainchild of New York-based Sean Thomas. Drawing the breadth of his inspiration for these musical works from the global cultures, Sean had a vision to create a project embodying tradition, culture, and community culminating in the coining of &friends. He and the collective recently made their live debut on one stage in Egypt in August at SilverSands North Coast and released their track “Duro” featuring Dotun.
This year already has seen &friends begin to make his way across the desks and release schedules of major labels in dance music. He just released an Amapiano edit of “Ode Ireti” via iconic Afro-dance imprint, MoBlack Records, and made his major mainstream dance label debut on Armada Music in May.
&friends
From New York, to Miami, Marrakech, Madrid, Mexico City – Tulum to Egypt and beyond, &friends is already making his mark on dance floors around the world. In his short time on the scene, &friends has received support from Pete Tong of BBC Radio 1, Black Coffee, Diplo, &ME, Keinemusik, Michael Bibi, Blond:ish, Francis Mercier, and many more.
2023 is already delivering a thoughtfully produced, artfully composed compilation of works from both Nitefreak and &friends respectively. Through a holistic, multifaceted approach, both artists are set to make their way to even more dance floors around the world to unite us all.
Nitefreak, &friends, and Phina Asa – “Ike Onu”
We recommend adding Nitefreak’s, &friends’, and Phina Asa’s “Ike Onu” single to your favorite Afro-house playlist. Also, let us know how you feel in the comment section below. Mel Blanc’s famous catchphrase, That’s All Folks! Thanks for reading another great article on Bong Mines Entertainment – the hot spot for new music and positive entertainment news. Always remember that (P) Positive, (E) Energy, (A) Always, (C) Creates, (E) Elevation (P.E.A.C.E). Contact us on social media via Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, or Facebook, and let us know what’s going on. Also, don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter, support our merchandise, and become a Patron of Bong Mines Entertainment. Disclaimer: This post contains Apple Music affiliate links. We may earn an affiliate commission when you buy through links on our site. That little compensation will be used towards keeping this website up and running.