We had the good fortune of connecting with JD Hyers and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi JD, Let’s talk about principles and values – what matters to you most?
Authenticity. For most of my life, I was unable to be authentically me, to the point that when I became an adult, I had no idea who I was. That is the most beautiful part about my life now. Everything I do is my choice. Everyday I uncover more of myself that was hidden away.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am a DJ (TIKE) and founder of Party 222, a 3 part party series that showcased some of the most talented and freshest underground music selectors right now in ATL. Currently, I am working on my new project called Gimmick Sounds. This is a project that will stretch across multiple forms of media and art forms to continue to showcase the talent that flourishes here in ATL, while simultaneously acting as an outlet for my obsession with finding music and creating a community to share it with. I started DJing in Athens, GA where I helped start and run a music collective dedicated to bringing an otherwise nonexistent dance music scene to that city. I made my move to ATL just over a year ago in June 2022, where I was introduced to an incredibly effervescent underground nightlife scene filled with people who share the same love for music and who have accepted me with open arms and allowed me to find my footing, that to which I am grateful. With this new project, I am hoping to converge on my love of visual arts, party curation, and as always, playing tunes, to create something that reflects the raw energy that makes this city so damn fun.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Friday Night Itinerary-

8pm Dinner at Del-Bar
11pm Late Night at Banshee (Dancing)
1am Eat Screaming Weenies (Outside of Banshee)
2am Find DJ Gorp at Mary’s (Tip them)
3am Locate the Afters (IYKYK)
3-9am Discuss anything and everything (Stay Awake)
10am Slide into a booth at Thumbs Up (You’ll need some time to recover for tonight)

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would not be where I am today with out my wonderful friends who are also my chosen family whose support means everything to me.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tikemp3/

Other: https://gimmickradio.airtime.pro

Image Credits
Jordan Young Necro Manny

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.