DC9 Nightclub

History

DC9 opened its doors in 2004 at 1940 Ninth Street, Northwest in the Shaw neighborhood. The venue was co-founded by DJ Bill Spieler alongside Joe Englert and other industry figures. Spieler’s wife, Amber Bursik, works as the venue’s chef and helps him manage operations. Steve Lambert took over as booker in late 2006, and general manager Josh Copeland joined the team in 2007.

The two-story building had previously housed Metro Cafe, and before that, Club Hollywood and Asylum. The club is best known for indie rock shows, though in recent years it has shifted toward hosting house music events. While not considered a gay club, DC9 draws a diverse crowd through its varied programming, which includes karaoke and dance parties. In 2010, a man who threw a brick through the venue’s window died after being restrained by five employees; the Metropolitan Police initially charged the staff with homicide but later dropped all charges.

Pop-up bars began at DC9 in 2018. The ground floor features a narrow saloon bar with a digital jukebox, while the upstairs holds a double-wide concert room. A glass-enclosed rooftop bar opened in 2010. At DJ events, the club enforces a no-phone policy, asking patrons to check their devices with their coats.

DC9 closed on March 16, 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and gradually resumed restaurant services with take-out and outdoor dining when restrictions eased on June 22, 2020. For its 20th anniversary in 2024, Bill Spieler organized a week-long series of four shows that celebrated the venue’s history, honoring past performers and highlighting current and future acts.