An M Street New Year
When the clock strikes Midnight, we will be welcoming 2017 in true M Street style. Bubbles will be flowing, confetti will be flying, and beats will be thumping throughout our bodies as we ring in the new year on the block. This New Year's, The Rosewall, Virago, Saint Anejo, and Whiskey Kitchen will all take part in the celebration.
We sat down with M Street's Event Producer, Kim Sawyer and our New Year's Eve Headliner, Chief Maverick of Los Angeles to see what we can expect from the night.
What inspired you for this year's New Year's Eve?
Kim Sawyer: In a nutshell, Vegas clubs inspired me. My favorite part about last year's New Year's Eve was the light show. I wanted to make this year's light show even bigger and better. I also wanted to focus on bright colors throughout the night. The colors and patterns will change based on the increase in energy throughout the night. The decor will be black and white with various colors coming from the lights.
Walk us through the night. What can we expect?
Kim Sawyer: DJ Keno will open the night and get the energy going. One of the first things that guests will notice is the DJ stage in the center with a platform around it to dance on. The second thing guests will notice is the large bar with really fun, interactive elements and live installations. Then Chief Maverick, an awesome DJ coming from LA, will make his Nashville debut headlining the night and helping us ring in 2017.
DJ Keno at last year's NYE party
What is your favorite part about this NYE production?
Kim Sawyer: I keep going back to the lights, but all of the elements are falling into place so seamlessly. I cannot express how excited I am to see everything come together. There are going to be some really cool installations, and even the costumes for the dancers are being flown in from Vegas. I have a really good feeling about this one.
Sample of 2017 NYE dancer's outfits, courtesy of Glen Cleary/Belluscious.
What was the most memorable part about last year's New Year's Eve?
Kim Sawyer: I loved how creative we got with our bar set-up last year. There was an aerialist inside of a chandelier. It added such a "wow" factor. I challenged myself this year to get equally creative but also focus on faster bar service.
Can you describe M Street New Year's Eve in 3 words?
Kim Sawyer: Energetic dance party.
How will this party be different from other productions around Nashville?
Kim Sawyer: I think what makes our party stand out is that it will be a club party. There will be tons of cool concerts and fancy galas around town, but this is a high-energy, thoughtfully produced dance party. It will definitely be the largest club party happening in Nashville this year, with next-level productions.
Moving on to our Headliner, Chief Maverick. How would you describe your music?
Chief Maverick: I like to interpret my sets in a very energetic way. By adding my own twist on songs people know, my music evokes excitement and adrenaline. I would describe my music as having uplifting bridges and hard drops.
Amazing photo shoot of Chief Maverick shot by the incredible Audrey Crawford.
When did you start DJing?
Chief Maverick: Four years ago. I went to Counterpoint Music Festival in Atlanta, and it was my first EDM show. During Skrillex's set I decided that being a DJ is what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.
Where did you get your DJ name?
Chief Maverick: My dad gave me the nickname Maverick when I was younger after the old Western TV series, Bret Maverick. The Chief part of my DJ name comes from my Choctaw heritage.
Where do you draw inspiration from?
Chief Maverick: I am inspired by what I experience when I go to shows. I try to picture myself listening to the music I produce to see if I would enjoy it or want to dance to it.
What is your favorite show you have played?
Chief Maverick: When I lived in Seattle I played at a place called Club Volume. I was just getting started in my DJ career, and it was my first club show, so it was very memorable.
What do you think NYE will be like?
Chief Maverick: I think New Year's Eve will be super energetic and fun. It will definitely top any of the other parties I have done, especially with the combination of amazing lights and sound.
