Derrick Jones, professionally known as D-Nice, describes being a dad as “the most important responsibility that I’ve ever held in my life.”

“I’m a father, DJ, producer, photographer — you name it, I’ve done it,” D-Nice says.

On his childhood, D-Nice shares, “I was raised by my great grandmother. I lived with her until I was around nine years old. I had to grow up quickly, but I have no regrets whatsoever.”

Recognizing that nothing is given to you in life, D-Nice recalls the moment his life changed when he became a father. “I knew I needed to get out, adjust and make things happen. Nothing is given to you. You know you have to get out in this world and earn your way.”

Growing up in a household without his parents, D-Nice explains how he had to learn on the job when it came to being a dad. “I had no one that set any examples. I wanted my kids to be strong, be focused and do what makes them happy, but I also want them to know it costs to be a leader. It’s hard work and I don’t sugarcoat it at all. Everything that I do is to provide a better life for my kids.”

D-Nice jokingly claims, “I’m always cheated when it comes to Father’s Day, because it usually falls on my birthday.”

“But when it’s just Father’s Day, it’s strictly about my kids,” D-Nice says. “We sit around and usually do whatever it is they want to do. It’s never really about me, even though it should be,” D-Nice adds in jest.

On family, D-Nice shares, “My family is pretty much everything to me. Everything that I do is to provide a better life for my kids, the life that I wish I had when I was younger.” He adds, “I’m so grateful that I’m in a position to provide them [the] proper shelter, food and education that I believe every child should have.”
(Photographer: Sabrina Thompson)