Finding My Groove: The Journey of prince! and The Groove Palace
PRINCE!
This week, The Groove Palace spotlights prince!, a Miami-based DJ and producer who has quickly become a rising force in the underground tech house scene. Known for his percussive grooves, infectious rhythms, and undeniable energy, prince! brings a sound that is as dynamic as it is captivating.
With roots in Florida and a deep connection to Miami’s vibrant nightlife, prince!’s journey has been one of passion and evolution. From experimenting with music on a DDJ-400 to performing at iconic venues like 1-800-Lucky, The Trip, and Mode, he has crafted a style inspired by the likes of Dennis Cruz, Joseph Capriati, and Marco Carola, while infusing his unique creative edge.
Dive into his latest mix and experience the groove for yourself—a seamless blend of Latin-inspired rhythms and underground beats, setting the tone for 2025. Out now exclusively on our SoundCloud.
When I think back to the very beginning of my journey into electronic music, I’m reminded of the small, unexpected moments that sparked a passion I didn’t even realize I had. What started as a casual interest during college tailgates and parties has evolved into a career that I’m proud to say combines my love for music, creativity, and community. My name is Andrew Prince, better known as prince!, and today, I’m here to share my story, my growth, and the vision behind The Groove Palace.
The First Sparks: From Listener to DJ
My introduction to electronic music wasn’t glamorous—it was a school bus ride during elementary school, where I first heard Skrillex’s remix of “Cinema.” That track opened my eyes to the energy and edge of electronic sounds, but it wasn’t until college that the love truly took root. At the University of Florida, my roommates introduced me to tech house artists like Green Velvet, Chris Lake, and Fisher. Those nights of discovering tracks and dancing with friends planted the seeds for what would become a lifelong passion.
Immersing in the Miami Scene
After college, I moved to Miami and found myself immersed in the city’s vibrant music culture. Iconic venues like Club Space became my second home, exposing me to extended sets by underground legends like Dennis Cruz, Joseph Capriati, and Marco Carola. These experiences shaped my appreciation for the underground scene, teaching me that the best tracks are often the hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
prince!: A Name and a Sound
The choice of my DJ name was simple—my last name is Prince. The exclamation point adds a touch of energy and personality, much like my sets. My sound, however, has been a journey. Influenced by artists like Dennis Cruz, Franky Rizardo, and the percussive grooves of Latin rhythms, my sets are a fusion of tech house, minimal, and deep grooves. Each track I play reflects the vibrant culture of Miami while incorporating my own creative flair.
Building The Groove Palace
The Groove Palace began as a personal mix series but quickly grew into a platform that showcases rising talent. What started with posting my own mixes evolved into inviting other DJs to share theirs. Each mix is paired with an artist spotlight, offering listeners a deeper connection to the music and the people behind it.
The mission of The Groove Palace is clear: to shine a light on underground talent, particularly in Miami’s thriving scene. By sharing these stories and sounds, I hope to foster a community that celebrates creativity and connection.
Milestones Along the Way
Since its inception, The Groove Palace has featured incredible artists and received support from listeners worldwide. Personally, I’ve hit some major milestones, performing at venues like 1-800-Lucky, The Trip, and Mode. In February 2025, I’ll take the stage at Jolene Sound Room, a dream I’ve worked tirelessly toward.
As a producer, I released my debut track, “Just Fine,” on Tech House Miami in 2024. The track earned nearly 20,000 plays and fueled my passion for creating music. Collaborations like “Pero Que Rico” with Alex Musci and Trizz are just the beginning, and I’m eager to share even more in the coming year.
Advice for Aspiring DJs and Producers
If I could share one piece of advice with up-and-coming DJs and producers, it would be to stay consistent. Mastery doesn’t happen overnight—it takes practice, patience, and persistence. Focus on finding your unique sound rather than chasing trends, and don’t be afraid to take risks. Those risks are what set you apart and help you grow.
Equally important is building genuine connections. Networking isn’t just about handing out business cards; it’s about immersing yourself in the scene, supporting other artists, and being present. Whether it’s a small local event or a massive festival, show up, engage, and learn.
Lastly, remember to love the process. Whether you’re behind the decks or in the studio, the joy of creating and sharing music should always come first.
Looking Ahead
As I look to the future, my goals are clear. I want to bring The Groove Palace to new cities and audiences, growing it into an internationally recognized platform. I aim to refine my production skills and release tracks that resonate with listeners and DJs alike. And above all, I want to continue connecting people through music.
To everyone who’s supported me on this journey—thank you. And to those discovering The Groove Palace for the first time, welcome. It’s always easy to groove in the palace.