Music, at its core, is about connection—between artist and listener, tradition and innovation, local roots and global reach. Few artists embody this ethos as masterfully as Kooldrink, the 25-year-old Zimbabwean-born music producer and recording artist who has become a luminary in the ever-evolving global music landscape. On January 24, 2025, Kooldrink unveiled “Show Me,” a genre-bending single that not only announces his arrival as a front-and-center recording artist but also reaffirms his visionary role in reshaping the global soundscape.
This track is more than a debut; it’s a declaration of intent. Featuring the mesmerizing vocals of Nina Nevra, “Show Me” exemplifies the essence of Pop Piano, the genre Kooldrink has meticulously crafted since adopting his now-renowned alias in 2019. By fusing the pulsating rhythms of amapiano with the melodic magnetism of pop, Kooldrink has forged a sound that feels both distinctly African and irresistibly global—a vibrant bridge between cultures, continents, and audiences.
Kooldrink’s journey to this pivotal moment is the stuff of legend. His path to prominence was paved with passion, resilience, and a relentless commitment to innovation. Long before Tyla’s *Getting Late* thrust him into the global spotlight, Kooldrink was already laying the groundwork for his ascent. With production credits for prestigious labels such as Universal, Mad Decent, and Parlophone, and collaborations spanning over a decade, he was quietly shaping a new narrative for African music in the global arena.
His partnership with Tyla proved catalytic, as Getting Late not only launched both their careers into the stratosphere but also cemented Kooldrink as a producer with an uncanny ability to craft sonic landscapes that transcend borders. So compelling was his work that Ed Sheeran himself enlisted Kooldrink to deliver an official amapiano remix of the global megahit ‘Bad Habits’—a move that underscored Kooldrink’s position as an ambassador of African electronic music on the world stage.
What sets Kooldrink apart isn’t just his technical prowess but his vision—a bold determination to create something truly original. Enter Pop Piano, a genre born from his deep love for Amapiano’s earthy grooves and his intuitive understanding of pop’s universal appeal. With its intricate rhythms, lush textures, and undeniable hooks, Pop Piano is the sound of the future, rooted in African authenticity yet boundless in its global potential.
In Kooldrink’s hands, Pop Piano is more than a genre; it’s a movement. “With ‘Show Me,’ I wanted to create something that reflects where I come from while also speaking to the world,” he explains. “Pop Piano is about bridging those gaps and bringing the energy of Amapiano to a broader audience.”
From its very first notes, “Show Me” commands attention. A shimmering interplay of melodic synths, richly textured percussion, and deep basslines provides the perfect canvas for Nina Nevra’s soulful, emotive vocals. The lyrics—introspective yet universally resonant—invite listeners into a world where vulnerability meets empowerment, all set against a rhythm that demands movement.
This isn’t just a song you listen to; it’s a song you feel. Kooldrink’s meticulous attention to sound design ensures that every beat, every note, and every pause contributes to an immersive auditory experience. It’s a track that bridges dance floors and headphones, club nights and quiet introspection.
In “Show Me,” Kooldrink captures a universal truth: that music has the power to connect us all. Yet, even as it reaches for global audiences, the track remains deeply rooted in the Southern African soundscape that shaped Kooldrink as an artist. This duality—local authenticity paired with global ambition—is the hallmark of his artistry and the driving force behind his mission to elevate African music to new heights.
As Kooldrink steps into the spotlight with “Show Me” and his forthcoming EP, he’s not just releasing music; he’s rewriting the rules. His journey from Zimbabwe to global recognition is a testament to the power of perseverance, vision, and the unifying magic of music.
Kooldrink’s rise marks a turning point for African artists on the world stage. His ability to seamlessly blend traditional and contemporary elements, to honor his roots while innovating for the future, positions him as a trailblazer not just for Pop Piano but for the broader African music movement.
“Show Me” is more than a single; it’s a rallying cry, a promise, and an invitation. It’s a call to dance, to dream, and to embrace a sound that belongs to everyone yet remains unmistakably African. As Kooldrink continues to push boundaries and redefine genres, one thing is clear: the world is ready for Pop Piano, and Kooldrink is here to deliver. Listen to “Show Me” now on all major platforms, and join Kooldrink as he takes the first step into what promises to be an extraordinary new chapter in global music.
