Are you ready to celebrate New Year’s Eve in style? Join renowned DJ D-Nice at the iconic Walt Disney Concert Hall in downtown Los Angeles for his unforgettable “Deck the Hall” holiday extravaganza. This highly anticipated event on December 31 will showcase an impressive lineup of musical talent, including legendary R&B/soul, hip-hop, and pop artists. Attendees can expect to see incredible performances from Next, Big Daddy Kane, Case, Estelle, Jon B., Tweet, Lady London, Mike Philips, Nice & Smooth, and Johnny Gill, all coming together to bid farewell to 2024 and welcome in 2025 with great music and energy.

D-Nice, whose real name is Derrick Jones, shares insights into the exciting process behind organizing his upcoming show. He explains to Billboard, “Sometimes the curation is extremely random. As I play through my set, I might think, ‘Oh, this artist would be fantastic for the show.’ For instance, I was thrilled when Johnny Gill agreed to perform; I’ve played his tracks so many times. Once I reached out to him with the concept, he was immediately on board. The same goes for Big Daddy Kane. I’m also thrilled to finally collaborate with Case, who I’ve wanted to work with for a long time. I can’t wait for everyone to experience this New Year’s Eve show!”

The celebration doesn’t end with the New Year! D-Nice is also gearing up for his first 2025 Club Quarantine Live session at the prestigious Kennedy Center Concert Hall in Washington, D.C., scheduled for January 11. This event promises to be another star-studded affair with special guests, including Grammy Award-winning artists Anthony Hamilton, Arrested Development, and Big Daddy Kane, alongside Grammy nominee Rapsody, Tank, Goapele, Rakim, and Tweet. This elegant black-tie event is produced by BrandNice and co-presented by the Kennedy Center, with multi-media personality Kenny Burns serving as the host. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this incredible experience!

Expressing his enthusiasm, D-Nice reveals, “I can’t help but use the word excited because it truly feels surreal to be in this position.” He continues, “As a member of the Kennedy Center Hip Hop Culture Council, I curate each show to create the unique flow I envision. Bringing together different genres and artists keeps my passion ignited, and I’m thrilled to share this experience with everyone.” D-Nice’s commitment to blending various musical styles reflects his dedication to creating memorable experiences for his audience.

As a self-proclaimed music enthusiast, D-Nice shares his most cherished memories from his acclaimed Club Quarantine, which he launched on Instagram during the pandemic. He reflects on the artists he hopes to collaborate with in the future and discusses how his passion for photography is evolving in 2025. This journey has been a thrilling exploration of creativity and connection through music and visuals.

Can you share your most unforgettable experience during Club Quarantine, and how has your brand evolved since then?

One standout night, March 21, 2020, will forever hold a special place in my heart. It wasn’t about the sheer number of attendees or listeners, but rather the extraordinary experience of hosting a virtual party that drew in some of my favorite artists, including Rihanna and President Obama. In past events, I was always the DJ at someone else’s party, but this was different; I was the one creating the event. The support and love shown by everyone who joined that night were heartwarming. It was a moment that uplifted spirits, reinforcing our shared experience during challenging times. Seeing familiar faces and hearing their voices brought joy and connection that I will always cherish.

D-Nice elaborates on the evolution of his brand, stating, “It’s not about tangible elements; it’s about the feelings and connections we create through music. My performances focus on community, joy, and laughter, bringing people together. I aim to recreate the essence of my online shows in live settings, where audiences can enjoy a diverse range of music. The thrill of bridging different musical eras, from Nice & Smooth to Lady London, and collaborating with artists like Rapsody and Rakim, embodies the spirit of what I strive to achieve.”

Which artists remain on your wish list for future collaborations?

“I hold immense admiration for both Stevie Wonder and Chaka Khan, and having them perform at one of my events would be a dream come true for me,” D-Nice shares. His passion for music is evident, and he continually seeks opportunities to collaborate with the best in the industry, aiming to create unforgettable experiences for his audience.

What musical trends do you foresee, and are Afrobeats events on your radar?

Recently, I received an exciting opportunity to perform at several shows in Africa. I’ve always embraced Afrobeats and Afrobeat music, inspired by legends like Fela Kuti and contemporary artists like Burna Boy. I also have a deep appreciation for South African soulful house and amapiano sounds. The beauty of today’s music scene is that artists are exploring diverse styles, creating unique sounds that resonate globally. For instance, Tyla is making waves with her music, while Chris Brown recently sold out two nights in Africa. It’s inspiring to witness the global reach of our culture and how it continues to evolve.

Are you planning to publish a book about your DJ journey?

I’m currently working on a photography book that will showcase images captured throughout my journey, alongside a touring exhibition set to launch around June 2025. I’ve always carried a camera with me, documenting my experiences in the music industry. This project aims to share behind-the-scenes moments with my family and future generations. From candid shots of a young Kendrick Lamar to heartfelt moments with Mary J. Blige in South Africa and iconic figures like Dave Chappelle, these images highlight the beauty of the music world and the connections forged through it.

What key advice would you offer to aspiring DJs?

Every DJ has their unique style, which makes it vital to stand out in this competitive field. While EDM DJs often perform their own tracks, DJs playing pre-recorded music need to bring their own flair to the performance. The energy and vibe you create during a set are crucial. Throughout my career, I’ve learned that it’s not just about the music; it’s about the connection you establish with your audience. Aspiring DJs should focus on their personality and showmanship, as these qualities can leave a lasting impression on listeners and help build a loyal fan base.