The pulsating beats of electronic dance music might seem out of place in Nashville’s honky-tonks, but John Price is changing that perception one electrifying performance at a time. As Morgan Wallen’s chosen VIP DJ and a fresh face in Music City’s evolving scene, Price isn’t just mixing tracks – he’s blending genres in ways that are reshaping country music’s landscape.
On a warm Nashville evening, the energy at Luke Combs’ newly opened Category 10 bar is electric. Price stands behind the decks, his fingers dancing across equipment that bridges two seemingly distant musical worlds. The crowd moves in perfect sync to his signature blend of country anthems and EDM drops, a testament to his ability to read the room and deliver exactly what it needs.
“Nashville just felt right,” Price reflects on his recent relocation from Boston, his words carrying the weight of someone who’s found their true home. “There’s something magical about this city – it’s not just about preserving tradition, it’s about pushing boundaries while respecting those roots.”
This philosophy has served him well. With 150,000+ streams on Spotify and counting, Price has quietly built a dedicated following that stretches far beyond Tennessee’s borders. His performances, which have lit up venues across the country, showcase an uncanny ability to transform traditional country tracks into dance floor anthems without losing their emotional core.
The decision to bring Price on as Morgan Wallen’s VIP DJ wasn’t just a career milestone – it was a signal that country music’s evolution is in full swing. In an industry often resistant to change, Price’s appointment represents a bold step forward, acknowledging the growing appetite for fresh takes among country music fans.
But Price isn’t alone in this musical revolution. He’s part of the groundbreaking Boots and Bass collective, a group of forward-thinking artists including DEEJAY Silver and RIVAS, who are each carving their own paths in the industry. While Silver has made waves touring with Jason Aldean and RIVAS has earned acclaim supporting Dustin Lynch, Price has developed his own distinctive approach to genre fusion.
“What we’re seeing isn’t just a trend,” remarks a veteran Nashville producer who’s worked with both traditional and progressive country artists. “It’s the natural evolution of country music, and folks like John Price are leading that charge.” The producer, speaking on background due to ongoing project commitments, notes how Price’s sets manage to honor country music’s storytelling tradition while introducing elements that appeal to younger audiences.
This balance was on full display during the grand opening of Category 10, where Price’s headline performance drew an impressively diverse crowd. From cowboys in boots to EDM enthusiasts in sneakers, the audience represented a cross-section of modern country music fans united by Price’s infectious energy and skillful mixing.
His success in Nashville represents more than personal achievement – it’s a bellwether for country music’s future. As traditional venues embrace new sounds and established artists seek fresh ways to connect with audiences, Price’s innovative approach proves that evolution and tradition can coexist harmoniously.
Local venue owners have taken notice of the shift. “Five years ago, I wouldn’t have imagined having a DJ in a traditional country establishment,” admits one longtime Nashville venue operator, speaking on condition of anonymity due to ongoing business relationships. “But watching how John connects with the crowd, how he respects the music while making it his own – it’s something special. He’s opening doors for a whole new generation of country music fans.”
The impact of Price’s work extends beyond the nightlife scene. Music industry analysts have noted a growing trend of cross-genre collaboration in country music, with Price’s success serving as a case study in how to effectively bridge musical divides. His ability to maintain the authenticity of country music while introducing electronic elements has caught the attention of both independent artists and major labels looking to expand their sound.
Looking ahead, Price’s influence shows no signs of waning. His role as Morgan Wallen’s VIP DJ continues to expose new audiences to the possibilities of country-EDM fusion, while his performances at venues across the nation help build bridges between musical communities that once seemed worlds apart.
The sun is setting on another busy day in Nashville, and somewhere in the city, Price is likely preparing for another night of mixing country heart with electronic soul. In a genre that’s always been about storytelling, he’s writing a new chapter – one beat at a time.
As country music continues its journey into the future, Price stands as proof that innovation doesn’t mean abandonment of tradition. Instead, it’s about finding new ways to tell the same timeless stories that have always been at the heart of country music. For John Price, that means using every tool at his disposal – from traditional acoustic samples to the latest in electronic production – to keep the spirit of country music alive and dancing.