DJ Lenny Pearce Launches Family-Friendly Raves Across Southern California

DJ Lenny Pearce is transforming the traditional rave experience by introducing family-friendly events known as Toddler Techno. The Australian DJ, inspired by the repetitive nature of children’s music after the birth of his daughter, Mila Pearce, aims to create an engaging atmosphere for both parents and their young children.

Pearce’s journey into this unique musical niche began when he decided to remix children’s songs. His rendition of “Head, Shoulders, Knees & Toes” quickly gained traction online, sparking interest in his baby-centric raves. The second leg of his Toddler Techno tour will commence on October 10, 2023, at the House of Blues Anaheim, with subsequent shows at SOMA San Diego on October 12 and The Novo in Los Angeles on November 23.

Parents are encouraged to bring snacks, water, and ear protection for their little ones, ensuring a comfortable first rave experience. The events promise a lively atmosphere with kid-friendly activities including hair braiding, glow-in-the-dark face painting, and interactive photo booths. Pearce mentions, “Most people already come dressed up, but if they want to touch up their braids, they can. From what I remember as a kid, I loved face painting.”

Pearce’s musical career began long before he focused on toddler raves. He was a member of Justice Crew, a breakdancing group that won “Australia’s Got Talent” in 2010. The group later transitioned to a boy band, achieving chart-topping success with hits like “Boom Boom.” Pearce’s role in the crew included DJing, which fueled his passion for music production.

In 2022, the arrival of Mila shifted Pearce’s priorities as he embraced fatherhood while continuing to create music. Exposure to nursery rhymes led him to innovate within this genre, integrating electronic dance music (EDM) elements. After releasing his remix on social media, he was pleasantly surprised by the positive reception from both parents and children. “I’d been in the industry for a long time trying to push myself as a DJ, and then for this to go from zero to a hundred in a year is crazy,” he reflected.

Pearce’s approach involves balancing catchy children’s lyrics with energetic beats that resonate with toddlers. He tests his music on Mila to ensure it meets the needs of both children and their parents. “Kids are more energetic than we usually are, so it would make sense that their music is also energetic,” he stated.

In addition to his original productions, Pearce collaborated with The Wiggles, an iconic Australian children’s music group. This connection came about through his identical twin brother, John Pearce, who is a member of the group. When Anthony Field, one of the group’s performers, reached out for a remix project, Pearce gladly accepted the opportunity to create “The Wiggles Soundsystem: Rave of Innocence,” released in April 2022. The album features 14 classic Wiggles songs reimagined with an EDM twist.

Pearce’s events attract a diverse audience of parents, some of whom are former ravers, looking to share a unique experience with their children. He aims to recreate the spirit of the dance culture’s “PLUR” ethos—Peace, Love, Unity, Respect—within a family-friendly context.

As Pearce described, “Speaking for myself as a parent, I refrain from going out because our lives revolve around the kids. However, if there were an event like this one, where kids could see their parents having a good time, that would make it even more exciting. When they all come together like this and everyone’s having fun, it’s such a wholesome thing.”

The Toddler Techno events are designed not only for enjoyment but also to create lasting memories for families. “I hope families come out and create core memories. That’s what it’s about, because kids grow up so fast,” he emphasized.

For those interested in attending the upcoming shows, tickets for the Anaheim event start at $65, while tickets for SOMA San Diego are priced at $47.10, and tickets for The Novo begin at $64. Families can look forward to a vibrant celebration of music that resonates with all ages, creating an inclusive and joyous atmosphere.