The neon lights of Lower Broadway shine a bit differently these days, as Boston-bred DJ John Price brings his distinctive sound to Nashville’s hallowed streets. In what might seem an unlikely pairing just a few years ago, this rising country-EDM star has traded the cobblestone streets of Boston for the well-worn paths of Music City, marking an intriguing new chapter in both his career and country music’s evolution.
Price, whose infectious beats have already captured over 150,000+ streams on Spotify, didn’t just move to Nashville – he dove headfirst into its beating heart. His recent headline performance at the grand opening of Luke Combs’ Category 10 bar wasn’t just another gig; it was a statement. The packed house that night witnessed something special: country music’s familiar warmth getting an electronic pulse, and loving every minute of it.
“Nashville’s always been about storytelling,” reflects a local industry veteran who’s watched the scene evolve over three decades. “What Price brings is a fresh way to tell those stories. He’s not changing the narrative – he’s adding new chapters to it.” This sentiment echoes throughout the city’s musical community, where Price’s innovative approach has earned him not just acceptance, but genuine enthusiasm from traditionally-minded country music purists.
The move from Boston wasn’t just a change of scenery. For Price, who cut his teeth in Boston’s electric club scene, relocating to Nashville represented a calculated risk that’s paying impressive dividends. His appointment as VIP DJ for country powerhouse Morgan Wallen speaks volumes about his rapid acceptance into Nashville’s traditionally close-knit music community. This coveted position has allowed Price to showcase his unique talent to some of country music’s most discerning audiences.
On any given night in Music City, you might find Price working his magic behind the decks, transforming familiar country ballads into pulsing dance tracks while somehow maintaining the soul of the originals. It’s this careful balance – respecting tradition while pushing boundaries – that’s earned him spots at prestigious venues across the country. His sets have become known for their ability to keep both boot-scooters and ravers moving, no small feat in a city where musical authenticity is currency.
Now represented by Boots & Bass, Nashville’s pioneering country DJ booking agency, Price has found his professional home. The agency, known for championing artists who dare to blur genre lines, provides the perfect platform for his boundary-pushing style. “When we first heard John’s sets, we knew he represented exactly where country music could go,” notes a Boots & Bass representative. “He understands both worlds – the electronic and the country – and more importantly, he knows how to make them dance together.”
Price’s success in Nashville isn’t just about the music – it’s about timing and cultural evolution. As country music continues its natural progression, artists like Price are helping to bridge the gap between traditional country fans and a new generation of listeners who grew up with electronic music in their DNA. His ability to read diverse audiences and deliver exactly what they didn’t know they needed has become legendary in Nashville’s entertainment district. This intuitive understanding of crowd dynamics, combined with his technical prowess and deep appreciation for both genres, has earned him a reputation as one of the most reliable and innovative performers in the city’s competitive nightlife scene. Local venue owners frequently praise his ability to maintain the delicate balance between honoring country music’s roots and pushing its boundaries into new territory.
The impact of Price’s arrival in Nashville extends beyond his own performances. Local venues report a noticeable shift in their audiences, with younger crowds increasingly drawn to country music presented through Price’s fresh, innovative lens. This transformation has caught the attention of industry veterans, who see it as a promising sign of the genre’s ability to adapt and thrive.
Looking ahead, Price’s influence on Nashville shows no signs of slowing down. With several high-profile collaborations in the works and an ever-expanding tour schedule, his gamble on Music City continues to pay off. His journey from Beantown to the heart of country music isn’t just a personal success story – it’s becoming a blueprint for other artists looking to push genre boundaries while respecting musical traditions.
Price’s genre-bending expertise has sparked a growing appreciation in Nashville. Through his masterful mixing and genuine appreciation for country music’s storytelling tradition, he’s proving that evolution and respect for tradition can coexist. As one longtime Nashville sound engineer recently observed, “What John’s doing isn’t just mixing music – he’s mixing generations, and that’s exactly what country music needs right now.” This sentiment perfectly encapsulates Price’s role in Nashville’s entertainment scene: a bridge-builder who’s helping to usher in a new era while keeping one foot firmly planted in the rich traditions that made Music City what it is today.
