DJ Nico Marie has been shaping her sound for over a decade. With 13 years behind the decks, her style draws on her love for R&B, soul, and jazz. Beyond music, Nico is also a yoga instructor and wellness influencer, merging creativity with mindfulness under her platform @YogaWithNico.
In our conversation, Nico shares her journey into DJ’ing and record collecting, the tactile joy of vinyl, and the story behind her most treasured find. She also talks about the inspiration behind her unique Poems over Instrumentals series, a project that pairs powerful spoken word with soulful sounds.
Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I’m a DJ of 13 years from St. Louis, Missouri. My favourite genres at the moment are R&B, soul, and jazz. I’m also a yoga instructor and wellness influencer – @YogaWithNico.
What sparked your interest in collecting records?
Being a DJ, it was natural for me to eventually start collecting records. We had records in the home when I was a kid, so it feels good to be starting my own collection.
What is it about vinyl that you love most?
I love the feel of vinyl under my fingertips. It feels special to me. And I love when an older record has crackles and pops.
When did you start DJ’ing, and what got you behind the decks?
I started DJ’ing 13 years ago. They were offering classes in my community and being musically inclined, I decided I would learn. I learn more and evolve every year.
What inspired your Poems over Instrumentals series?
I saw a video on Twitter a few years back where a guy put a Malcolm X speech over Quiet Storm by Mobb Deep and Lil’ Kim. I was inspired by that, the music helped bring out the message. I created my own version of that and began experimenting with the same concept.
What advice would you give someone wanting to try vinyl DJ’ing?
I’d say it’s about the feel. Don’t try to be perfect, do it with love. I don’t often do vinyl sets, but when I do, I don’t put too much pressure on myself.
What’s the most prized record in your collection, and is there a story behind it?
My most prized record at the moment is my Porgy and Bess Showboat record by Eric Steele and His Orchestra. I bought it from a thrift store for like $1. It’s very old (it’s from 1960) and it crackles and pops, and you can’t find it streaming or on YouTube. I think it’s a rare, beautiful, Black gem.
Follow DJ Nico Marie over on Instagram.
