We’re looking forward to introducing you to Nelson Pratts Jr. Check out our conversation below.
Nelson , we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What battle are you avoiding?
I avoid nothing, I address it all the fearful, the hurtful, the uncomfortable because avoiding means you are not clearing the clutter that allows the space needed for your growth.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hipxgawd (Nelson Pratts Jr.) is more than just a DJ—he is a cultural bridge, a sonic architect, and a storyteller through rhythm. Born in Brooklyn, New York, and raised at the intersection of Nigerian and Puerto Rican heritage, Hipxgawd embodies the richness of dual cultural traditions while carving out his own creative lane. Now based in Denver, Colorado, he has quickly become a respected figure in the city’s music and nightlife scene, known for bringing a globally conscious yet locally grounded energy to every stage he touches.
With over 24 years of experience as an artist, producer, and engineer, Hipxgawd approaches DJing with a deep understanding of music production and sound design. His technical foundation allows him to blend tracks with intention, build dynamic sets that feel like journeys, and create an atmosphere that feels curated rather than improvised. He is not only spinning music—he is weaving together stories of movement, identity, and culture.
What sets Hipxgawd apart is his open-format versatility anchored in Afro-diasporic sounds. While his specialties include Afrobeats, Amapiano, Reggaeton, Latin Afrobeat, and exclusive edits, he effortlessly bridges these genres with mainstream, underground, and global sounds, creating a dance floor that feels both familiar and refreshing. His sets are electric, unpredictable, and deeply immersive—each one crafted to bring people together across backgrounds and generations.
Beyond the booth, Hipxgawd is a visionary curator. Through his event brand, “Hip to the Vibe,” he designs experiences that go beyond nightlife, creating spaces where culture and community intersect. His events celebrate the rhythms of the diaspora, offering not just entertainment but education and empowerment—reminding audiences that music is both art and heritage.
In the digital space, Hipxgawd leverages platforms like Instagram and TikTok to share his artistry with the world. His content blends humor, storytelling, and performance, offering glimpses into his personality while extending his reach beyond the stage. This dual presence—both online and in-person—positions him as a modern creative force, equally comfortable behind the decks, in the studio, and in front of the camera.
But at his core, Hipxgawd’s mission remains simple and powerful: to inspire, uplift, and unite through music. Whether he is mixing genres that were never meant to meet, crafting edits that reimagine familiar songs, or hosting events that center global Black and Latinx sounds, he creates experiences that feel transformative. His journey is not just about entertainment—it is about legacy, identity, and the belief that music has the power to heal, connect, and elevate.
Hipxgawd isn’t just playing music—he’s building a movement.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My Mom, My sister and my grand parents
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
All the time but I continue to revisit my why! which helps me refocus with intention.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
That we as artist of color hold no real space. When we are the ones who shape culture, fashion, movements and perspectives.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
Procrastinating, making excuses and not living with pure passion.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: www.instgram.com/Hipxgawd
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Hipxgawd
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXCoGwLWg-GDGmkIo-wq_aw
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/hipxgawd
- Other: https://www.mixcloud.com/Hipxgawd/
Image Credits
unknown
