How to use a reference track to improve your mix

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DJ How You Want – What It Takes To DJ Your Way

dj alicia keys DJ How You Want – What It Takes To DJ Your Way

Aside from your love of music, you probably decided that you’d enjoy a career as a DJ because of the flexibility. There are no bosses telling you how to DJ, what to play, when to do it and for how long you can do it. As a DJ you choose the tracks, transitions, sound effects and everything else related to your set…within reason.

Due to the innate flexibility and autonomy associated with DJing many DJs think they can DJ how they want and get more gigs than they can handle. For a few select genius DJs this may be true but for us mere mortal DJs who bleed and sleep and drink, we have to do a few things before we can DJ the way we want.

So how can you DJ how you want and also play by the “rules”? Keep reading to find out!

The lucky few out there who can DJ how they want without compromising their artistic integrity and regular meals have learned the importance of listening. The key to being your own kind of DJ is to listen to what the client wants. Whether the client is a raging bridezilla, a stuffy executive, a spoiled sweet sixteen-er or a cocky club owner, it is your duty to listen to what they say they want or expect from you as a DJ.

But why should I listen if I’m gonna do what I want? The answer is simple: the only way to figure out how to DJ the way you want is to know what the customer wants and give it to them…in your own unique way. Just be sure to get clarification because of someone wants oldies or a specific genre you don’t want to give them ‘your version’ of it and have it backfire.

The worst thing you can do for your DJ career is be unnecessarily arrogant. You don’t want to be the DJ equivalent of the kid fresh out of college expecting an executive position, do you? Of course not!

You want to be the DJ who is unfailingly confident but with the skills to back it up. You know your equipment as though it is a part of your body, you have a near robotic memory of your music library and an extensive knowledge of music in general. By honing your craft, which basically means knowing your shizzle, you have a lot more wiggle room to DJ how you want.

Music and DJ equipment knowledge will allow you to manipulate tracks and sounds to fit into what your client wants.

Now this is important especially for you digital DJs out there who only want to spin one genre of music: we all have to pay our dues. Okay well not all of us. If you are content with DJing as a hobby or part-time gig then, by all means, play only the music you want to play. Forever.

But if you want to play extra big venues and the biggest cities on the planet then you’ll need a list of satisfied customers to get you there. Guess what? Not all of those customers will be EDM club owners or underground Hip Hop promoters. Some of them will be newlyweds, parents, high school principals and the HR lady in a Gene Simmons wig.

What’s my point? To DJ how you want you will have to take some gigs that maybe you don’t want so much. First of all you need the experience and saying “yes” will make sure you get that experience. The other thing is that if you only wait around for DJ gigs within your predetermined genre, you won’t have very many gigs to choose from right away.

It is universally accepted truth that the more likable you are, the more you can get away with. This is why DJs who seem to be friends with everyone get a lot more leeway in performances than DJs who are aloof and unfriendly.

Show up to your DJ gigs on time wearing a smile and be prepared to do what you’re getting paid to do. Be nice to everyone you meet and next time say the words that every club manager dreads hearing; I want to try something a little different. They won’t want to hear it but since you’re a likable enough DJ who has done your job well, you’ll get a chance to DJ how you want.

dj+your+way DJ How You Want – What It Takes To DJ Your Way

Whether or not you are likable, increasing the club numbers will almost guarantee you a chance to DJ how you want a night or two each week. You know the deal; the more people in club the more cover fees and drinks are purchased, which translates into dollars, euros and pounds in the pockets of the decision makers.

Show that your DJ skills have a way of bringing in big numbers and you’ll be able to DJ any way you want.

I hope I helped you DJ how you want to. Email in the box below to get access to Free video DJ lessons that will answer all of your questions on how to become the disk jockey you want to be!

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 DJ How You Want – What It Takes To DJ Your Way

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How To Be the Best Club DJ In Your City

best+club+dj+in+town How To Be the Best Club DJ In Your City

There is this saying that always seems to be spoken with a negative connotation but I think it is perfectly appropriate in the DJ world. Given how fast digital DJing has taken off around the world, it is much preferable to be a “big fish in a little pond” than it is to never swim in the pond at all.

Not to get all existential on you guys, but having success as a DJ means defining what success means for you. For some it will mean reaching the earning level of world famous spinners like Tiesto and Avicii, for other it will mean being the go to DJ in (insert your city here). But even before you become one of the big dawgs you’ll have to start someplace so why not in your hometown?

When the clubbers in your hometown can’t get enough of you, then you’ll be ready to take on the rest of the world.

One thing many big city club DJs have done is work the club circuit. I don’t mean as a DJ either. You’ll find many of these big names were bartenders or cooks or lighting techs or…whatever. These DJs know the ins and outs of how a club works and as such they know exactly who they should know to get their shot inside the DJ booth.

This doesn’t mean that you have to quit your cushy office job and start peeling potatoes in the kitchen, but if you have a similar job elsewhere, you may as well do it someplace that can help you get where you want to be. Why? Because you’ll be close to the people who hire DJs and they’ll know who you are!

In addition to knowing the club owner and the booker, you want to know anyone else that can help you become the best club DJ in town. Whether it is the music blogger of the city paper, the best club promoters, hottest bartenders and even planners, these are all people you need to know. Even more important you need to make sure they know you and about your DJ aspirations.

These are the people that are always looking for the next big thing and being on their radar can only help you become the DJ every club wants to book.

It is important you don’t approach these people as some brown nosing wannabe, but as a DJ who’s going to be well known in no time. Introduce yourself at a music event (do not interrupt them during lunch) and hand out a mixtape or business card. Stay connected to these people by sending out press releases of upcoming DJ gigs, new music releases and even giveaways.

best+dj+club How To Be the Best Club DJ In Your City

You might think this is a shady way to do business but the truth is that ‘having a hook up’ to someone who is in demand can help you become the best club DJ in the city. If you have friends that can be useful—web designers, stylists, sound engineers and security among others—being the person who connects them to people who need them can only help.

Let’s be honest; simply being a great DJ isn’t always enough. You will need something that gives you an edge, and knowing people who are needed can give you that edge. Don’t believe me, then let me tell you a little story. I tried to convince a club owner to give me a gig for about the hundredth time but he was convinced it was a hobby for me and wouldn’t let me get close enough to smell the DJ booth. When one of his weekend bartenders was down with the flu, guess who had the phone number of a recently certified mixologist who owed him a favor?

Monday morning I asked for another shot in the DJ booth and he gave it to me. From there I was able to prove myself as a DJ and after a few months turned that into a regular gig.

One of the things that will make you the best club DJ is being the epitome of cool. That doesn’t necessarily mean wearing the right clothes and perfecting the unaffected look of the cool kids. What it does mean for those with aspirations of being a regular club DJ is that you need to know cool music.

Highly sought after club DJs know what is cool beyond the top 40 and even more importantly, they know what is on the verge of becoming cool. You want to be the DJ who played Lady Gaga before the world went gaga for her and to do that means you need to keep your fingers on the pulse of the music industry.

In order to DJ clubs all over your city you will need to make yourself known by showing up where the right people hang out. Be at the club openings, local music festivals and even carnivals if live music will be played. Showing up and making it know that you are a part of the music industry in town will let everyone see you are more than just a flash in the pan.

As the best club DJ in town you are a local celebrity and everyone knows that celebrities know everyone and show up everywhere.

It takes time to build up this kind of persona, but believe me, the effort will be more than worth it when you have more gigs booked than you could possibly handle.

I hope I helped you improve your DJ profile in your hometown. Email in the box below to get access to Free video DJ lessons that will answer all of your questions on how to become a disk jockey!

beginner dj setup How To Be the Best Club DJ In Your City

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 How To Be the Best Club DJ In Your City

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DJ How You Want – What It Takes To DJ Your Way

dj alicia keys DJ How You Want – What It Takes To DJ Your Way

Aside from your love of music, you probably decided that you’d enjoy a career as a DJ because of the flexibility. There are no bosses telling you how to DJ, what to play, when to do it and for how long you can do it. As a DJ you choose the tracks, transitions, sound effects and everything else related to your set…within reason.

Due to the innate flexibility and autonomy associated with DJing many DJs think they can DJ how they want and get more gigs than they can handle. For a few select genius DJs this may be true but for us mere mortal DJs who bleed and sleep and drink, we have to do a few things before we can DJ the way we want.

So how can you DJ how you want and also play by the “rules”? Keep reading to find out!

The lucky few out there who can DJ how they want without compromising their artistic integrity and regular meals have learned the importance of listening. The key to being your own kind of DJ is to listen to what the client wants. Whether the client is a raging bridezilla, a stuffy executive, a spoiled sweet sixteen-er or a cocky club owner, it is your duty to listen to what they say they want or expect from you as a DJ.

But why should I listen if I’m gonna do what I want? The answer is simple: the only way to figure out how to DJ the way you want is to know what the customer wants and give it to them…in your own unique way. Just be sure to get clarification because of someone wants oldies or a specific genre you don’t want to give them ‘your version’ of it and have it backfire.

The worst thing you can do for your DJ career is be unnecessarily arrogant. You don’t want to be the DJ equivalent of the kid fresh out of college expecting an executive position, do you? Of course not!

You want to be the DJ who is unfailingly confident but with the skills to back it up. You know your equipment as though it is a part of your body, you have a near robotic memory of your music library and an extensive knowledge of music in general. By honing your craft, which basically means knowing your shizzle, you have a lot more wiggle room to DJ how you want.

Music and DJ equipment knowledge will allow you to manipulate tracks and sounds to fit into what your client wants.

Now this is important especially for you digital DJs out there who only want to spin one genre of music: we all have to pay our dues. Okay well not all of us. If you are content with DJing as a hobby or part-time gig then, by all means, play only the music you want to play. Forever.

But if you want to play extra big venues and the biggest cities on the planet then you’ll need a list of satisfied customers to get you there. Guess what? Not all of those customers will be EDM club owners or underground Hip Hop promoters. Some of them will be newlyweds, parents, high school principals and the HR lady in a Gene Simmons wig.

What’s my point? To DJ how you want you will have to take some gigs that maybe you don’t want so much. First of all you need the experience and saying “yes” will make sure you get that experience. The other thing is that if you only wait around for DJ gigs within your predetermined genre, you won’t have very many gigs to choose from right away.

It is universally accepted truth that the more likable you are, the more you can get away with. This is why DJs who seem to be friends with everyone get a lot more leeway in performances than DJs who are aloof and unfriendly.

Show up to your DJ gigs on time wearing a smile and be prepared to do what you’re getting paid to do. Be nice to everyone you meet and next time say the words that every club manager dreads hearing; I want to try something a little different. They won’t want to hear it but since you’re a likable enough DJ who has done your job well, you’ll get a chance to DJ how you want.

dj+your+way DJ How You Want – What It Takes To DJ Your Way

Whether or not you are likable, increasing the club numbers will almost guarantee you a chance to DJ how you want a night or two each week. You know the deal; the more people in club the more cover fees and drinks are purchased, which translates into dollars, euros and pounds in the pockets of the decision makers.

Show that your DJ skills have a way of bringing in big numbers and you’ll be able to DJ any way you want.

I hope I helped you DJ how you want to. Email in the box below to get access to Free video DJ lessons that will answer all of your questions on how to become the disk jockey you want to be!

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 DJ How You Want – What It Takes To DJ Your Way

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4 Cool Toys To Help You DJ A Wedding

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Beatport, Android & Other Digital Tools Killing the Art of DJing

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Why I DJ Free For Other DJs

practice+dj+for+free Why I DJ Free For Other DJs

New DJs trying to make a name for themselves constantly have to deal with the conundrum of whether or not to accept unpaid gigs. It is a difficult question to answer and one that only a DJ can answer for him or herself. On the one hand unpaid gigs allow you to build up a portfolio of actual performances that you can use to get paid gigs. On the other hand, you are using time, effort and equipment to DJ for free.

Sorry to say that even those with MBAs have to intern (for free) at some point before making the big bucks. But even today I DJ free…for my fellow DJs. By that I don’t mean that I gig for free, but I use my other DJ pals as a sounding board also known as my practice sessions.

I know it technically isn’t the same thing, but I’m going to tell you why I DJ free for other DJs to help you understand the benefits of taking the occasional unpaid gig…until you no longer have to.

Whether you are doing a simple practice session in the wake of a big gig or you are going to DJ free for the hell of it, the saying ‘practice makes perfect’ was never more true than it is here. A few full on practice or free DJ gigs will make you a master at packing and unpacking your gear and setting it up.

The more you do it, the better and more efficient you will become at getting your gear in your car and into the DJ booth.

By treating practice sessions and free DJ gigs as real gigs with a paycheck, you will become better in all aspects of DJing so when you finally do get a barrage of paid gigs you’ll be an old pro.

Back in the early days of my career I spent a lot of time—too much time, in fact—choosing music. I mean I spent hours setting loops and cue points, listening to tracks to find what song fits where. I thought I was doing my due diligence as a budding DJ but as time went on I realized I was wasting a lot of time.

You know why? Because that isn’t the same as practicing, which is what I needed to be doing. Of course there are tons of software applications that let you filter tracks by keywords, genre, artist, beats and pretty much any other way you can think of to categorize your music so your job is a lot easier than mine was. Nevertheless, when I DJ free for my DJ pals I am actually practicing my planned sets. This way if something sounds off I can simply correct that instead of rearranging my entire set for one track.

dj+free+practice+sessions Why I DJ Free For Other DJs

To become a better DJ you just might have to DJ for free at least a few times, because trust me when I tell you that doing it for yourself isn’t the same as doing it for your friends (or your mom). Other DJs will tell you the truth even if it’s so you don’t ever assault their ears with what passes for music to your ears and bookers will tell you the truth even for a free gig because they will want you to DJ free for them again or at least at a “beginner” rate.

I know it’s cynical but you need feedback from people who don’t care whether or not they hurt your feelings…it is a surefire way to become a better DJ.

One of my favorite things to do when I DJ free for other DJs is to step outside of my comfort zone and experiment with some of my more creative ideas. First of all you’re doing the gig for free or simply looking for feedback on an idea you want to run with, so you do have a bit more freedom to experiment. Then there is the matter of getting honest, in-the-moment feedback on what you think is a great idea.

Other DJs will tell you exactly what they think, and even if they don’t, their faces will tell you everything. And in the heat of a free DJ gig the crowd’s reaction will serve as your immediate feedback system. If the dance floor empties immediately that’s a pretty good indicator you’re on the wrong track.

Keep in mind however, that when you DJ free gigs you will have to color inside the lines at least a little bit. Why? The main reason is that these free gigs often serve as an unofficial job interview and playing something that causes the dance floor to clear out is the equivalent to showing up drunk and stoned for a job interview.

If you think you’re too cool or too famous to DJ free gigs, then don’t. But consider this: if you were too cool or too famous, would anyone be asking you to DJ for free?

I hope I helped you decide whether or not to DJ free gigs. Email in the box below to get access to Free video DJ lessons that will answer all of your questions on how to become a disk jockey!

beginner dj setup Why I DJ Free For Other DJs

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 Why I DJ Free For Other DJs

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Can (And Should) A Pro DJ Use djay 2?

how+to+use+djay+2 Can (And Should) A Pro DJ Use djay 2?

It used to be, not so long ago, that DJing was for the pros. With DJ equipment costing hundreds or thousands of dollars, DJing isn’t’ really something you can just ‘tinker’ about with on a whim. But as technology has advanced at an insanely fast rate, more and more recreational DJs are getting into the game.

With the ever growing popularity of the iPad and DJ apps like djay, many new DJs are wondering if the pros will be taking advantage of the newest version of the popular app to keep them away from the big gigs. While it is true that some untrained and emerging DJs are looking to Algoriddim’s djay as a way to keep cash coming in while they perfect their craft. hardcore DJs are reluctant to use this type of software,

With the release of djay 2, it is likely that pro and amateur DJs alike will be taking advantage of the newest features.

When most people think of apps they think of Angry Birds or other non-essential applications, and this is exactly why many DJs brush off the significance of djay as a viable piece of DJ software.

At first glance djay 2 looks plain and simple, but if you look a little bit closer you’ll see that the only thing simple about it is the packaging. In fact I’d argue that some of the new features like track analysis is more useful to experienced DJs who understand things like waveforms. This new version of djay uses colored waveforms so the DJ can actually see how a song is composed—which is necessary when creating your own mixes. The color changes helps newbies figure out a good place to insert a transition and it helps pros when they’re hunting for the ‘perfect’ track.

Beat matching is something new DJs, especially those with no other music experience, find quite difficult. The older version of djay made it tricky to match beats up the way you wanted but djay part deux comes with Perfect Sync that locks beats in sync easily.

This feature works great for new DJs learning how to beat match and experienced DJs who don’t have the time—or inclination—to worry about matching beats.

One of the things that old school DJs, you know those who still use vinyl or CDs, will love about djay 2 is that it is the same DJing it has always been…just digital. This means when you are ready to make the jump to digital it won’t be such a huge leap in use. Waveform HD is basically a digital turntable so instead of performing the physical movements you simply tap the cues to get the job done.

Color coded buttons and clearly labeled cues make it easy for any experienced DJ to learn how to use djay 2.

djay+2 how+to+dj Can (And Should) A Pro DJ Use djay 2?

If you think only amateur DJs are looking to djay, think again. The samplers provided by Algorridim are accessible by simply tapping a grid icon to reveal 8 different sample pads. You can use the samples as they are or add in your own tracks to create a unique sound.

What’s more is that you can also use the tracks contained in your library to create your own samples. As a DJ you are always on the lookout for ways to make your sound more unique and identifiable and this sample feature lets you pretty much figure out what your unique sound will be. The samples could be their own separate app, that’s how useful this feature is.

The fact is that if you’re willing to fork over $10 for the iPad app (less for iPhone) you can find out for yourself if djay 2 is something you’ll be using when you make the leap from amateur to professional DJ. You’ll see the different music library views and the user friendly interface isn’t at all intimidating. The idea of new DJ software is more daunting than actually learning how to use this app in real life.

The djay 2 app offers more than most users expect from any app, so both pro and recreational DJs will find themselves not only pleasantly surprised by the power of day 2 but by just how simple it is to use.

Put your iPad to good use and download the djay 2 app to see just how quickly you can get your audience pumping their fists in appreciation of the genius that is DJ YOU.

The only downside is that if you have an Android tablet then djay 2 is not yet on the table for you. Right now the compatibility is for iOS operating systems so you’ll either have to pony up the cash for an iPad or iPod or keep DJing the way you always have.

It’ll take more than an iPad and an app to make you a good DJ, but using djay 2 won’t make you less of a DJ.

I hope I helped you learn how to use djay software by Algoriddim. Email in the box below to get access to Free video DJ lessons that will answer all of your questions on how to become a disk jockey!

beginner dj setup Can (And Should) A Pro DJ Use djay 2?

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 Can (And Should) A Pro DJ Use djay 2?

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Do’s & Don’ts Of DJ Booth Etiquette

dos+in+dj+booth Do’s & Don’ts Of DJ Booth Etiquette

When you finally step inside the DJ booth your first instinct might be to strut in like a big star and puff your chest out as you look over the crowd of partiers eagerly awaiting your musical stylings. That’s all fine; this is your first of many times inside the DJ booth and you should take a moment to enjoy it, revel in it and most of all get used to being there.

But what you should not do is look upon the DJ booth as some sort of throne that allows you to act like a jerk. This is an important lesson to learn and it often takes DJs a few years and a few burnt bridges before they actually learn it.

The sooner you learn appropriate DJ etiquette, that is how to act inside the DJ booth, the sooner you’ll be booking gigs with other DJs and enjoying cocktails that haven’t been spit in by the waitress you called “sweet cheeks”.

Sure it may piss off a few of your fellow patrons but it is your right as the DJ occupying the DJ booth to keep your gear safe and protected from drunken revelers. As such it is perfectly acceptable to cordon off certain areas inside the booth as “off limits” to anyone who isn’t you.

This is particularly important if you’re a DJ who does allow clubbers into the DJ booth. Set limits to make sure your gear is protected no matter what.

I know plenty of DJs who come into set up for a gig and can’t be bothered to throw out a “what’s up, man” or “How’s it going” to anyone but the owner. This is the absolute WRONG thing to do. Make a special effort to greet the person responsible for your position inside the DJ both that night: the booker.

In fact I’d suggest you do more than say “hey” but chat about something other than how grateful you are for the gig or anything related to DJing. Ask about the booker’s kids or family or recent ski trip. Just make nice—and mean it—and you’ll be surprised how quick this route is to future gigs.

It is common for a club to comp a few cocktails or soft drinks for the DJ, but you should never come to expect it. First of all you are inside the DJ booth to work, you are getting paid after all, so shouting for your free mug of beer won’t endear you to anyone. Even if you are allowed a certain amount of free alcoholic drinks, don’t work hard to max them out.

Have a drink or two throughout the night, and if you are feeling nervous about the gig, skip the booze altogether and grab some ice cold water.

in+the+dj+booth Do’s & Don’ts Of DJ Booth Etiquette

Nothing gets under my skin more than witnessing other DJs abuse the club staff. These guys have a job to do just like you do, and yelling at them for another drink or because you can’t find a cord, will not help you get an ice cold beverage or a repeat gig. You run the risk that they’ll inform management that you are awful to work with or do their best to make sure your gig isn’t the best it could be.

Be kind to the staff because you will need them at some point, and because it’s the human thing to do. Imagine how quickly security will respond to someone who’s been a gigantic ass all evening…

Under no circumstances should you disrespect the DJ booth by openly dissing the DJ who went before you. Do not leftover equipment on the floor, don’t use it as a coaster for your beer and do not make a show of tossing it over your shoulder. This is childish, disrespectful and it will reflect poorly on you…especially if the right person is watching.

You’re scheduled to go on in 15 minutes but the other DJ is still doing his thing with no concern for the pre-set schedule…what do you do? You wait until the set is over to set up and let the promoter/planner know that things are off schedule. When the set is finished you can step inside the DJ booth and begin setting up. Just let the crowd know how soon to expect you to be ready to go and then set up and get ready to go!

You wouldn’t want anyone making noise during your set so pay them the same respect.

It is easy in the heat of a gig to get worked up over every little detail. Resist this urge because it will only affect your gig. If the previous DJ’s set runs late; don’t worry about it just set up and start when you can.

Something will almost always go wrong during a gig. How you handle yourself inside the DJ booth will determine how much stamina you have to be a DJ.

I hope I helped you figure out proper etiquette in the DJ booth. Email in the box below to get access to Free video DJ lessons that will answer all of your questions on how to become a disk jockey!

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Do Cheap DJs Really Get All The Gigs?

 Do Cheap DJs Really Get All The Gigs?

When you work as a contractor, freelancer or small business owner—as most DJs do—you have to constantly think about money. How much money do you need to make from each gig to turn a profit? Is that a reasonable rate for a DJ with your skill level and experience? This is a problem many DJs have, especially if they live in big cities where there are more DJs than Starbucks.

It is a commonly held belief that DJs who charge less get more gigs because club owners only care about pocketing as much money as possible. That isn’t necessarily true because club owners know that a bad DJ can cost them far more money than they save. Why do you think clubs spend big bucks to promote well-known DJs or offer regular gigs and residencies? Because the right DJ can pack a house which translates into mucho dinero for the owner.

While it is true that some smaller, disreputable club owners will prioritize cost above quality when it comes to something as “insignificant” as the DJ, there are far more owners looking to get a DJ who can actually help raise his profile with club goers. This is why the big names get to basically write their own ticket. If what you want to charge to DJ at a club is nothing compared to what you will bring in, you can pretty much as for anything you want because all the club owner sees is dollar signs (or euro signs as the case may be). For non-celebrities this is a big factor because Paris Hilton surely wasn’t being paid big bucks for her skill, but rather her name and how big names can fill up a club.

Another reason cheap DJs don’t get all the gigs? It’s that little saying “you get what you pay for”. Consider what you want to get paid and then consider the minimum amount you can afford to get paid for a gig without losing money. If you charged less than you can get by on, how diligent would you be about making sure you showed up on time or that your set was as cutting edge and incredible as it could be?

Chances are good that you would expect them to be grateful you even showed up for “the pittance they’re paying you” and it would reflect in your performance. Why get a cheap DJ for $250 when they’ll end up costing the club thousands in un-bought drinks and cover charges that never get paid because word spreads about the bad DJ in the booth.

One of the most important housekeeping or administrative tasks you’ll have to perform is deciding if your rate matches up with your skill and experience level. I can’t help you do that, but I do know that cheap DJs sell themselves short and make it almost impossible to ever get paid more.

In fact I’d argue that you’re better off doing a few free gigs as a show of good faith than simply undercutting your costs just to get a gig. While you think you’re giving yourself an edge, the truth is that club owners looking to make their club ‘the place to be’ will take one look at your nightly rate and peg you as an amateur DJ. The DJ owners who will book you as a cheap DJ will try to squeeze everything they can from you for that low, low cost.

cheap+djs+how+to+dj+fast Do Cheap DJs Really Get All The Gigs?

If you have never worked for yourself and have no idea what is an appropriate rate to charge for your DJ services, chances are good that you will see even a nominal amount as exorbitant. But when you factor in things like the cost of gas, time, equipment and profit you’ll see that being a cheap DJ pays about as much as being a free or apprentice DJ.

Cheap DJs often sell their services short and end up having to keep their day job because they don’t charge enough. The truth is that being new is no real indicator of your innate talent or skill, and the more you prove yourself as a hot commodity the more you can end up charging for your time in the DJ booth.

My suggestion is to work your way backwards. Start with how much you’d like to bet paid and figure out how much your expenses are to see if you can justify that rate. But also…be realistic about what club owners in your area are likely to pay you to DJ.

As easy as it is for you to believe that you’re losing gigs to those cheap DJs out there, chances are good you aren’t getting gigs for a different reason. So get out there and mix & mingle with people in the DJ world, and connect with people who can give you gigs and help you get bigger gigs.

Most of the time it isn’t about the money but about the connections when it comes to getting DJ gigs, so do more networking and less stressing over money.

I hope I helped you figure out it does not pay to be a cheap DJ. Email in the box below to get access to Free video DJ lessons that will answer all of your questions on how to become a disk jockey!

beginner dj setup Do Cheap DJs Really Get All The Gigs?

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 Do Cheap DJs Really Get All The Gigs?

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