A career in music production and DJ can definitely go hand in hand. Be it at any function or a Wedding, DJs do much more than just play music. So, in case if you intend to take up serious DJing, here’s how to become a successful DJ. Learn the latest trends in the trade and how you can be successful with your own DJ business.
Get DJ Training
This is the obvious part. You need to learn, practice, get trained if you want to improve. No second thoughts about that!
Doesn’t matter is you are going to perform at your friend’s party, or at the local radio station, you’ll need good training, and lots of practice to become better.
Learn useful skills such as how to beatmatch, music theory, learn to DJ with vinyl, learn about DJ equipment and performance hardware best suited for new DJs, and more.
Go through online tutorials, how-to videos that will help you with tips and tricks that will enhance your knowledge of how to DJ.
There are also several forums and communities online where you can pose questions and get more information.
Learn to DJ on Your Phone
There are several apps available now for smartphones that are designed to mimic the traits of DJ hardware. Using your phone and a DJ app you can learn mixing, add Hot Cues, loops, and various kinds of effects – Pad FX, Transition FX, Combo FX, and more.
So use your smartphone to get used to DJ gear and software.
Learn to Use Popular DJ software
VirtualDJ
VirtualDJ is a popular DJ software that can be used to learn to DJ. You can use it for DJing using digital music without needing turntables, CD players, vinyl, and CDs. You can even use it to play videos or for karaoke by connecting your laptop to a projector.
Pioneer Rekordbox
Most Djs keep their tracks, playlists on a USB stick. Pioneer’s free Rekordbox is a software that helps organize music and greatly helps save time. It offers advanced cloud music management that allows you to access multiple cloud-connected devices, and also supports all Pioneer DJ hardware, including players controllers.
The next time you’re at a club or some event, look for opportunities to talk to the DJ. Request them to show what DJ equipment they have, ask them how they became DJ, what are the challenges, and so on.
You’ll get some valuable tips and suggestions from their years of experience.
“Mid way through my performance, the power suddenly goes out on the dance floor and DJ booth. It took them around 15 minutes to figure out what had happened, and that gave me a bit of a breather. I go to the bar to get a beer and I am just treated like a god by the customers; many bought me a beer. Sadly, the atmosphere changed COMPLETELY after that break, many left and when the power came back, I had to re-create the mood and bring everybody back into the same zone. But I was able to do so, the floor got packed again and we played the music until 3am. What an amazing first night for me,” DJ Ron talking about his first gig.
Can a DJ be Classified as Musician?
The general consensus seems to be that someone is not qualified to be a musician if that person plays another person’s music. Most DJs play pre-recorded music; they take existing music and try to mix and match that together.
DJs Only Press Buttons?
This is one of the most widely expressed opinions, that most DJ players only press buttons.
- If someone who spins a record/computer/cd could be thought of as a musician, then whoever can insert keys into a car should be thought of as a mechanic.
- An overweight buddy of mine thinks he is an athlete because he bowls.
- If I play movies on my television, then I am a movie and TV star.
They Don’t Play Any Instrument?
Most feel that DJs don’t sing and neither they play any music instrument. Some DJ’s definitely could be musicians, but being a DJ only doesn’t make them a musician.
So, what DJs do make them more of “Entertainers” and not really “Musicians”.
A DJ does not have to be a musician in order to be a good DJ. A DJ could also be a musician, but that’s not typically the case – just as a musician can be completely clueless about DJing.
Scratching requires skills and is the same as Composing Music?
On the other hand, there are many who feel DJs are musicians. It’s because being a DJ requires a lot of skill; it is not JUST about inserting a record and pressing play. These guys have incredible skills and tons of imagination. Watch this video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2kWRFwZPRuw
There are some who are of the opinion that a turntablist displays more musicianship than a DJ. A DJ uses a turntable to play someone else’s music, but a turntablist uses the turntable to make unique sounds and compositions, as a composer would do using a musical instrument. DJs are only musicians when they’re using the turntable to generate new sounds…like the ‘turntablist’ DJs from the ’80s and ’90s who used pitch/speed adjustments, mixer controls (fader, EQ, kill switch) and scratching to make new sounds.
Most DJs consider scratching to be a skill that makes the music better. Mixing tracks together requires you to have an understanding of tempo and beats.
Others argue that DJs need to master their instrument (controllers) through regular practice, just as a pianist would master the keyboard through doing various exercises including running scales.
While these are good points, does that really make one a musician?
Keeping the dance floor full and keep them entertained is definitely an art, but that doesn’t make you a musician.
Check out this video here and let us know what you think.
So, there are many DJs who firmly believe that electronic music now is much more innovative than some of the rock music that’s been released in the past. There are some DJ’s who have written and produced some great music. The debate of course continues…
Different Settings Where a DJ may Perform
Here are the different settings (environments) where DJs perform. You would be working on one of these.Club DJ
Also known as the resident DJ, his/her job is to maintain a moving dance floor. As a club DJ, you must try to maintain a balance between an active dance floor, and a busy bar. You must also bear in mind that every club has a different feel and audience, and so each will expect you to play a different selection of music. Clubs typically have their own equipment setup, which you can use to perform.
Radio DJ
Depending on the station, a radio DJ’s job may vary, from the person who discusses news, weather (or other subjects) between songs, to full-on music curation. You’ll play music, but you may not be able to play whatever you want; you will be expected to follow guidelines set by the radio station and you will also be expected to accommodate listener requests.
The Performer (Turntablist)
Every DJ aspires to reach here some day. These DJs are revered for their skills at the decks and people go to hear them play because of their reputation. Their mixes are displays of raw skill, impressive tricks, and clever transitions.
Are DJs music producers?
If you go by definition, DJs play pre-recorded music to an audience; producing (music production) is the art of creating/recording original music. So someone produces a techno song, and then a DJ will play that song at some event.
Over time, most DJs acquire the skill of music production and end up becoming producers as well.
Read: Are DJs really musicians?
Attend Workshops / Trade Fairs
Trade fairs are events where audio/visual companies come together to showcase their products.
Usually, you’ll find workshops on several topics being conducted at such events. “Digital DJing” and understanding “how DJ technology works” is one such popular topic.
So checkout if any such workshop is being conducted in your city, it’s an opportunity to grasp useful knowledge. Starting with vinyl & CD players (where DJs were mixing two or more complete tracks) to digital platforms like Traktor (where multiple songs and samples are performed and remixed live), such workshops help you understand a lot about DJing, along with its technology. Also, all the MIDI controllers and mixers are usually on showcase, demonstrating how simple it is for anyone to get into DJing today.
Starting a DJ Business
Business Tips
Business OverviewYou can provide a DJ package that meets the needs of various customers. You can lend services ranging from by-the-hour DJing to full-day packages with the DJ acting as master of ceremonies.
The advantages is that you can start part-time while learning the craft and then scale up gradually.
Most DJs also act as master of ceremonies for the event, some also provide wedding planning services to become more competitive & to make more money.
About the Finances
- Startup Costs: $10,000 to $30,000
- Home Based: Can be operated from home
- Part Time: Can be operated part-time
- Franchises Available? No
- Online Operation? No
Remember, you need some means of transporting all those gear & equipment. The Startup cost is dependent on the quality of equipment, if you need storage or transportation, and other variables.
Here are some useful business suggestions to help you get started:
- Approach the local DJs and ask if they need any assistance. You can learn a lot by just being with them, even if you don’t get paid.
- Start small, take a couple of some gigs first and do those with rental equipment. After a few gigs (weddings, parties, etc) you would know if you want to make it an official business. Then you can start with your marketing efforts. Invest in proper gear, professional web site, accountant, business cards, lights, etc.
- For your first weddings, have music that can please 20 to 70 year olds. Weddings require extra organization and you need to know a wider variety of music compared to other events.
Preferably, gain some experience with other gigs before taking on weddings. - How much to charge for a gig depends on your experience, the type of client, and also which country you’re located. You can get that information by doing some research.
- Its better if you have liability insurance, to protect your gear.
Get the Right Gear/Equipment
You’ll need the right gear/equipment to be able to rock the dance floor, and you also need to wear the right kind of dress so that you don’t feel out of place.
Some events may expect you to do the job of both a Disc Jockey as well as a Microphone controller, make sure you can do both or have an assistant/help who could do that!
At the minimum, you’ll need these DJ equipment:
- Good Music Selection
- Turntables or Laptop and Software
- Good pair of Headphones
- Mixer
- Speakers
- Tables and stands
- Amplifiers
- Microphones
- PA System
- Lighting (optional)
Do You Need Any Type of Insurance for a Mobile DJ?
No, you don’t need any to start your DJ business. Although in some regions, you may have to purchase liability insurance to protect your business (check with local agencies for any license or must-have insurance).
However, depending on what sort of gear you have, you may consider having gear coverage.
If your business is dong well and you have invested a lot in your DJ setup, in a worst-case scenario, could you afford to replace all your gear and your music library at your own expense, to stay in business?
You may consider joining your local music/DJ association for possible discounts on such insurances.
Wear the Right DJ Dress For the Party
Being a DJ is now considered a professional career opportunity and you have to ensure that you make all the right moves to stay ahead in the game.
And besides playing the right music, and having the right gear, you also need to make sure that you’re dressed for the occasion. You also need to have the right overall look to woo your audience.
So wearing the appropriate DJ Dress should be part of your overall DJ promotion / strategy.
Professional DJing nowadays is about delivering a complete entertainment package, which includes:
- Music & Lighting
- Sound effects
- Lively banter (not too much when playing)
- Effects such as bubbles and smoke
Of course, if you’re a DJ then you must present yourself in a manner which matches your music style.
So what should you wear?
You should try to create a look that complements the genre of music that you intend to play, and that goes with the overall theme at a particular event.
Here are some examples:
- If you intend to play acid or house music in a club, you should be dressed in hip clothes, something that the audience would want to buy/wear.
- As a Club DJ, you need to present a slick & sexy image, something that the audience will admire. You don’t have to go overboard though (wear stylish sunglasses or have gelled hair).
- However, what we mentioned above, may not be appropriate at private BBQs and/or where the focus is on the 60s and 70s music. It would make more sense to wear jeans, loafers and bright casual shirts, something that goes with the genre of music/overall theme. A friendly & fun loving attitude will also be appreciated here.
As you can see, DJing is not about playing the same music at different venues. The genre can be different, the audience can be different. So its important that your DJ dress projects the right image for the occasion. If you’re not so excited about fashion-wear (in general), you need to remember that it does help in your DJ Promotion!
Get More Experience
Perform at as many venues as possible, pick up all the opportunities that comes your way. Don’t just stick to the radio broadcast booth, go in front of real people. You will need some solid experience, to get more work and also for your own confidence.
It’s quite possible that you may not get that internship so you’ll have to fetch for yourself. Always keep an open mind, and you’ll get several opportunities to perform & learn.
Here’s a video that shows how to be a professional DJ
On a lighter note, here’s another mock-infomercial video parodying the recent surge in the popularity of house music and those claiming to be a “DJ”.
DJ Business: Promote it Effectively
If you have a mobile DJ business, then you need to promote it; you have to let people know what you do to get more business. Of course you also need to have the talents to do justice to all the gigs that you get.
Having said that spending efforts on marketing & promotion ensures you get business on a regular basis. Fortunately, there are several low cost adverts and advertisement options available.
One of the more common ones still, is to use business cards and coupons. For around twenty dollars you can promote your DJ services.
And even though, in the online world, many would refrain from using their real names, when marketing your services locally, it does make sense to use your real name on the card. After all, you would meet people in person, so why not use your real name. There are many who also have their DJ names, but then they use it only as labels on their equipment/lighting gear.
As with most services, you need to set yourself apart from other DJ’s in your area. There are many who treat weddings as a separate business, and they do have special business cards made only for marriages.
These are some great ways to get started on a budget. There are many who’re already doing the discount cards on postcard method to great effect. Once you do a few gigs and save some money, you can invest on quality and unique business cards.
Over the long term, it may make sense to purchase business cards and posters for your mobile DJ business using online service companies such as vista print.
Promote Your BusinessYou need to promote yourself as a DJ to get regular work. at the bare minimum, do the following:
- Place ads in your local Yellow Pages, and/or in the in the local paper under events/music services/wedding services
- Set up a blog and write about your recent gigs, be a part of popular wedding forums
- Go and connect with local event managers, wedding-oriented vendors
- Leave your card & brochure with all your contacts and ask for referrals
Tip: A simple postcard can become a coupon that enables you to give incentives for doing business with you.
Show Professionalism & Treat it as a Business
You may want to become a DJ because you love music and love the sight of the audience dancing to your music. But then when it comes to being a full-time DJ, you have to a professional.
It means, you should be ready to show up whenever the opportunity arises. If you have said yes to any event, you will have to show up, doesn’t matter if you’re sick, feeling lethargic or have some other thing to attend to.
Never skip out on an event, or look sloppy, or be rude to the guests. If you’re in it for the long run, you have to marry yourself to the idea of being a DJ, and at the same time be fresh and exciting.
Remember, You have to show up for every event/reception/party that you have agreed to do, and turn up with the same level of excitement as if it were your own party or as if it was your first gig.
The only way to really succeed with your DJ business is to give people a choice, and keep a track of what is popular.
We will be happy to hear your experiences of setting up your business as a DJ. What promotional things worked to get more business/clients, did investing in better gear resulted in better experience for the audience, and so on.
Here’s a video that provides useful tips on How to start a DJ business.
To Conclude
Picking up DJ skills is easy but the much bigger challenge is to make a living of DJing. Like any other profession, you will need to constantly improve yourself, both a a DJ and also as a person. While its easier to become a DJ these days, what matters is that you should try to be better than the others.
There are plenty of opportunities for those who know their trade. But if you’re a beginner, you will need to go through some struggle first. However you choose to learn, be persistent and always try to improve, and be passionate about it. This is how you become a DJ.
See Also
Useful DJ Equipment
DJ mixing software
Useful DJ Accessories
External Links
KeytarHQ editorial team includes musicians who write and review products for pianists, keyboardists, guitarists & other musicians. KeytarHQ is the best online resource for information on keyboards, pianos, synths, keytars, guitars and music gear for musicians of all abilities, ages and interests.
Hosur says
If you want to be a DJ, I suggest you don’t go for any app and instead invest in DJ gear. World famous DJ’s like David Guetta, Deadmouse, Tiesto, Hardwell don’t use apps/software and they are the top DJs in the world.