At one time, the idea of getting your hands on a vinyl record was sacrilegious. Early DJs like Kool Herc, Grandmaster Flash and Grand Wizard Theodore pioneered the techniques that are now part of the classic DJ repertoire and made crowds dance with their art. Break beats, scratching, loops and punch phrasing are among the basic skills of DJs and you can easily learn them if you want to enter this world. Learn what equipment and skills you will need to develop, how to build your fan base, and how to turn your experience into a potential career.
Steps
Part 1 of 5: Getting the Equipment
Step 1. Start with the basics
Being a DJ doesn't just play songs. To learn how to build a set, improvise mixing, and make a crowd dance, you'll need to start with cymbals. Later, you can invest in larger speakers, a monitor speaker, a MIDI controller, an audio interface, microphones and various plug-ins, according to your ambitions. A stripped down DJ set up includes the following equipment:
- Two turntables or two CD players;
- 2-channel mixer;
- Headphones;
- Speakers;
- Mixing software (optional).
Step 2. Decide whether to prefer analog or digital technology
Traditional DJ setups rely on direct-drive turntables to play vinyl records, but the use of CDs and digital equipment is increasingly common. Both systems have advantages and disadvantages, but they are both effective for playing and becoming a DJ.
- Analog setups allow you to DJ in the traditional way, learning the skills as they were developed: by scratching a needle against the vinyl. This requires you to collect a fairly large collection of vinyls to play, so it can be expensive.
- Digital setups allow you to be extremely mobile and the learning curve is much faster with this equipment. Learning to match beats and transitions, for example, will be much easier with a program and a BPM counter.
Step 3. Consider a mixing software package
Serato Scratch or Traktor are excellent programs that can read any music format and select songs through the computer program interface. Pioneer and Numark also offer many products that you can try.
- These programs will allow you to access the MP3 library on your hard drive to complement your vinyl and CD selection. Often these programs offer loop and scratch functionality, delay and reverb effects, real-time control, karaoke effects and the ability to play videos.
- Ableton is a program that allows you to connect mixer controllers via USB cable and works to mimic the work of a DJ. It is suitable for beginners and those on a budget.
Step 4. Make wise economic choices
Don't invest in very expensive tools and equipment right away. Most of the money you invest will have to be spent on cymbals and a mixer. Ignore the rest for now. Spend your money well. Buy used cymbals and a new mixer.
If you really want to dedicate yourself to this profession, you will surely know some DJs. Contact them and ask for advice on equipment. If they share the same passion for music as you, they will definitely help you out
Step 5. Don't neglect your study
Most DJs record demos, playlists, and original songs at home. Make sure you have the tools at home that you will use most frequently on the premises. For example, if you want to play hip-hop, you will probably want to invest in a scratch / battle mixer for your simulations at home.
This will be especially useful if you plan to become a producer. We will talk about this shortly, but consider production as one of the possible outlets for your career
Step 6. Find out what you need for concerts
If you are going to perform in a venue that already has DJ equipment, you will probably only have to carry your laptop with the software to mix the music. If, on the other hand, you will work in private places, you will probably have to bring all the equipment. Figure out what you will need for each job.
It can be difficult to learn how to use some software to mix music. For most of them you will find good tutorials online. If not, know that there are specific DJ schools that can teach you cutting-edge techniques, but if you want you can also train yourself
Step 7. Create a large music collection
Do you know what you need? Music. Not the poor or third-rate one. To be a professional DJ, you will have to pay for the music you use. For now, work with what you have, but know that later on you will have to deal with that expense. You will need to be a music expert. Talk to friends and check out the charts, Youtube channels of record companies and websites dedicated to DJs like Beatport. Here is a list of genres to explore:
- House
- Trance
- Techno
- Electro
- Glitch
- Dark Alternative
- Progressive
- Breakbeat
- Hardstyle
- Hardcore
- Downtempo
- Jungle
- Drum and Bass
- Dubstep
- Hip-Hop
Part 2 of 5: Working on Music
Step 1. Learn the BPM of the songs you play
The beats per minute (BPM) of a song will determine how smooth or easy it will be to mix with another. You can calculate BPM by counting the beats yourself with a stopwatch, but that's pretty boring. Some mixers have a BPM counter, while most DJ software will calculate the BPM of the tracks for you; however, that value will not be accurate in 100% of cases, so it will be useful for you to guess the BPM yourself.
You can use a pitch modulator to match beats, although it is better to choose two songs at similar BPM. Mix songs into parts that don't contain vocals. Speeding up or slowing down a song changes the pitch and alters the notes
Step 2. Learn the intros and tails of the songs
Most dance songs have an introduction, in which only the music is present, without voices; the same goes for the tail at the end of the piece. Mixing very often boils down to merging the intro of a song with the tail of the previous one. Knowing when these key parts of the songs begin is critically important for live mixing.
Play the second song. The next song must be ready while the first is finishing. With one hand adjust the speed (if the BPM does not match) and with the other move the crossfader (the lever that manages the volumes of the cymbals at the same time), in order to reduce the volume of the song that is about to end and increase that of the song. who must enter
Step 3. Learn to scratch
To find the point you need in a song to scratch, consoles can be used. There are different types of scratches that work at different pitch levels. Try them all before you perform!
Some songs and specific points of the songs are better suited to scratching, while for others the effect would be terrible. It's like a comedian's timing: you need to know exactly when the right time and the wrong time will be
Step 4. Do simple things in the beginning
When you are a beginner, don't complicate your life and try to mix songs that have a maximum difference of 3 BPM. Try to mix songs that also have the same key. The software should be able to detect it. Once you understand this technique, start experimenting with the loop, then move on to the toggle function and adding effects.
Also be sure to try different methods on your mixer. Almost any effect can be used in more ways than one. You will surely find the one you prefer: generally there is one that is very "do it yourself" and one that is more automated
Step 5. Make a smooth transition between songs
One of the most important parts of a DJ's job is the transition between songs, performed in a way that matches the beats, which must remain constant, to allow people to continue dancing, without interruption. Using traditional DJ equipment, you will have to listen to the intro of the second song in the headphones, move the pitch selector until the songs are at the same speed, and play the song in time with the previous one. Learning to perform smooth transitions is one of the fundamental skills for DJs.
- You will also need to adjust the volume levels of the songs. The song you are playing will be at full volume, so you will have to gradually turn up the second one, listening carefully.
- Never mix parts of songs with vocal tracks. It is important to avoid creating unpleasant sounds, which is why you will need to know the intros and queues perfectly.
- With digital equipment, it is possible to use beat-matching programs to do this automatically, provided the songs have similar BPM. You should still learn how to mix songs with analog gear, as this is a fundamental skill.
Part 3 of 5: Learning the Art
Step 1. Think long term
What is about to start as an expensive hobby can also turn into a career over time. What you are about to undertake is no small feat. Becoming a DJ means spending years doing magic on other people's music. You may be able to get started within an hour, but you won't get really good until after a long time.
This is not a midweek afternoon hobby. If you want to reach a good level, you have to work on it. Keeping time is a fundamental skill for DJs and can also be innate, but knowing how to interpret the wishes of the audience and knowing how to match the songs well are skills that must be refined over time
Step 2. Decide if you want to be a music specialist or audience barker
Some concerts will require compromises, otherwise you will only be able to make a few performances. In a college bar, the public might want to hear Katy Perry. If you are a specialist you may gain more credibility among DJs, but you may find far fewer jobs.
- Following your audience means playing the songs they prefer, in order to satisfy the taste of the largest possible number of people. This style is suitable for private events, such as weddings or parties.
- A music specialist sticks to a particular genre, regardless of the demands of the audience. Usually, these DJs work in established clubs on a certain type of music that have a following in that specific industry.
Step 3. Observe
Look closely at a DJ you admire and try to learn his style. Pay attention to song selection and audience management. After you've observed him a couple of times, try to bring him closer to the end of his performance and ask him for advice. Most DJs will be happy to help you if they see that you really care about their opinion.
Find inspiration from the most famous DJs. Sometimes it can help to be inspired by professionals like Headhunterz, Tiesto, Avicii, Knife Party, Sebastian Ingrosso, Deadmau5 and Skrillex
Step 4. Try to be a DJ who knows multiple genres
You can still be a specialist while still following different genres. Most professionals only specialize in one genre of music, but by focusing on versatility you can become one of the best.
- This also gives you more opportunities for future gigs. Instead of limiting yourself to one or two clubs in the area, you can perform in different locations and even at weddings or graduation parties.
- Whatever genre you follow, you will still need to know the classics, the beautiful B sides that should have been A side (the so-called deep cuts) and current music. With a healthy mix in your repertoire you will be able to keep yourself on the crest of the wave.
Step 5. Keep up with current musical trends
In order not to be left behind in today's fast-paced world, you will need to know all the rankings and understand how new trends will develop. You must always be up to date and look towards the future.
You should always write down notes, write down which song you just heard, and keep a list of ideas. Always keep your mobile phone or pen close at hand: inspiration comes in the most unexpected moments. And so does your best friend when he wants you to hear a new song he's working on
Part 4 of 5: Gaining an Ever-Growing Following
Step 1. Try to get recurring engagements
Just like a pilot, who needs a certain number of hours of flight, you too will have to achieve a certain amount of performances. The best way to do this seriously is to get recurring employment from an established venue - not just occasional gigs.
- Find companies that provide DJs for weddings and similar celebrations. You will not be independent, but at least you will enter the world of music.
- Offer to work at a university or local community radio station.
- Some concert venues need DJs between each band's performance. Make sure you get the job!
Step 2. Get to know your audience
Having a clear idea of the audience in front of you is crucial for a successful performance. If you play at a wedding for example, put slower into your repertoire and find out about the bride's musical tastes before playing. If you play in a nightclub, find out about the manager's musical tastes and the musical tastes of the public who frequent the club. The regular audience is the one who will pay your fee; learn to satisfy it.
- Be careful to respond to requests. If you're playing in a hip-hop club and a tourist or a non-regular customer asks you for a song you wouldn't normally play, think twice before doing it. Remember, your goal is to please the majority of customers and keep them coming back.
- If possible, visit the venue early. Taking a look at the crowd before performing can help you reduce anxiety about a new concert.
Step 3. Advertise
You should produce press kits, distribute business cards, constantly send e-mails, and continually expand your network. This is a full time job.
Keep busy. To get a good fan base, perform as much as possible to make yourself known. Try to have as many commitments as possible at the start of your career to keep interest and creativity high. In the beginning, it is important to accept any possibility of performing
Step 4. Enhance your online presence
If you don't have the time or money to create your own website, sign up on Facebook or Twitter and promote your DJ career. Advertise your performances, take the opportunity to keep in touch with your fans and respond to their messages in person. The more you become a real person to these people, the better off you will be.
Make playlists. Make iTunes and Spotify playlists to share with your fans. This will allow them to explore your musical tastes and let people know the songs you will include in your next performance. You will tickle their appetite
Step 5. Find gigs
Depending on the path you want to give to your career, you could start playing for a small fee at private parties, or playing on less frequented evenings (e.g. during the week) in a nightclub or bar. Ask a friend who is throwing a party if you can be their DJ. Keep in mind that you won't be earning much at first and will likely have to get a second job if you want to support yourself. Would you also DJ for free if you had to, right?
At the beginning, you will often have to enter into contracts ensuring that you bring X number of people. These are really unpleasant deals. You are not a promoter and you cannot manage your friends. Sometimes, though, you will have to adapt if you have no other choice. Know that these characters are only the ones you are working with now - avoid them in the future
Step 6. Become a producer
The next step in being a DJ is to become a producer of your own music. You can still work with other people's songs, but you can combine them, mix them, edit them and make them better. On YouTube DJ Earworm is famous for doing this. You will be able to rack up a lot more cash when you start producing your own songs.
When that happens, you can start a record company. You may not end up being a high-billing artist, but you can work with others, doing what you love behind the scenes
Part 5 of 5: Creating a Career
Step 1. Work on your charisma
As a DJ, you will be responsible for entertaining large groups of people on your own. The music you play is important, but you also need to pay attention to how you behave on stage. Don't just sit folded over the plates. You would be an anonymous figure. Try to attract attention in a positive way. At the same time also learn to step aside when the situation calls for it.
Step 2. Learn to interpret the needs of the audience
Use the music to manage the performance. Divide songs of different styles into different sections. Play slower, quieter songs at first. Gradually move to more action-packed pieces and keep the best ones for last. Above all, learn to notice audience reactions and understand how people react to your music.
- Don't play too many action-packed songs at weddings. You would ruin the romantic vibe.
- Don't play slow songs at kids 'and teens' parties. They will get bored quickly.
Step 3. Behave like a pro
Show up to your performances on time and ready. Always try your best on every occasion. Keep the audience entertained, but always keep your demeanor professional and respectful - you never know who's watching you.
The DJ world is full of scoundrels. Try to be different. If you don't prove yourself a true pro, there are thousands of guys and girls out there ready to take your place
Step 4. Beware of unpleasant situations
Working in discos and similar environments is not always a pretty sight. Remember that, in many cases, a large part of the public will be under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or both. On some occasions there will be those who will try to annoy you. What enters you in one ear should immediately come out of the other.
In addition to the rowdy or ungrateful crowd, you'll have to deal with shady promoters and technical disasters. Use common sense to survive these problems and try to manage them in the best way
Step 5. Have fun
Imagine going to a show (you may have already witnessed it) and seeing a busy DJ pushing buttons as if he were climbing a rock. It's terrible to watch a DJ who doesn't even like their music. So make sure you have fun and the crowd will follow you.
You are totally allowed to lose your mind. The more you hear the music, the more you'll hit it and the more the audience will want to hear you again
Step 6. Live the dream of working for yourself
After all this hard work holding unsatisfactory gigs, working with low-value companies, and using cheap equipment, it's time to up the ante. As soon as you start cashing in, upgrade your equipment. The industry standard is the Technics 1200, but you can buy higher quality equipment. It might cost you a few thousand euros, but you'll make up for it soon and earn more.
Start setting your rates. How much are you worth? You may not be a star, but you don't have to depreciate yourself either. Evaluate the distance traveled, if you are bringing your own equipment and the general aspects of the concert (some do much better than others). And don't forget: will they give you a meal?
Advice
- Develop your own sound. Create original and specialized mixes on a genre. Experiment with different sounds and equipment and include them in your performances.
- You can try using song titles to create stories or themes. For example: "Lady in Red" drove a "Little Red Corvette" to "Funkytown. '
- Try adding effects while mixing songs: they can help you blend them.
- Ask a friend in the audience to help you adjust the volume. It will need to be high enough for people to hear the beat, but not to the point where you can't talk to people around you.
- Choose a cheerful, lively and fun opening song.
- Find the right balance between words and music. The audience will want to hear you speak, but not too much.
Warnings
- Keep your equipment aloft to prevent someone from spilling something on it.
- Don't get in the habit of playing for free or for very low amounts. You don't want word to get out that you're a cheap DJ. People should hire you because you're good, not because it's cheap.
- Never speak ill of another DJ. The DJ community is compact. If you get a bad reputation, you will regret it.
- The most important thing is to choose the appropriate concerts. You will make audiences and DJs happier!
