Choosing to become a professional DJ is something that many music lovers aspire to do, but it can be a rocky road. There are likely to be many commitments and disappointments along the way, and you need to ensure that you are ready to weather every single one of them. Here are some of the things you should consider when getting ready to launch your career as a professional DJ.
Get the Practice Time In
Even if you think you can come up with some pretty good mixes on the fly, there be a chance that you will make a mistake in the middle of a set. No-one wants to be the person to bring the energy in a club or a party down, so it is important that you really know how to DJ properly, and all the skills needed to keep .
This ultimate guide by Pirate is a great start to help you pick up some of the many skills that you are going to need, and you should also try to get as much practice time in as possible. The longer you can spend at decks, the more you will be able to hone your craft. This, in turn, allows you to make that important step from amateur to professional.
Network
Everyone needs to network. As a self-employed DJ, it is likely that you are going to have to your opportunities. You need to make sure that you are actively promoting yourself so you are able to draw in gigs.
Make use of platforms like YouTube and Soundcloud to get your music out to new people. Anyone who wants to book you is going to want to hea . If you have ready and waiting for , they are going to be more likely to think about taking you on as they won’t have to ask for your mixes when they reach out to you with a potential booking.
Be Discerning – But Don’t Be a Diva
You should not take every gig that comes your way when you are starting out. Though this will get you a lot of exposure, it can also put you in some situations if you are not careful. You might end up not getting paid the right amount if at all, and you might have to put up with some unpleasant comments from a resident DJ if you are coming in for a guest spot. These are just two examples of issues that you could face, so if you feel like a gig is not going to be the right choice for you, you should definitely think about saying no and looking for the next one.
At the same time, you should never be a diva. You are not a big-name DJ who can maybe afford . You are very much a rookie who is starting out. Show up early to gigs so you can gauge the vibe of the room, be polite to the venue’s staff, and be thankful for the opportunities you have been given. At the end of the day, you are there to do a job, and you must be professional to be successful.
Lose Yourself in Music
Music is at the heart of being a DJ. Even if you want to create your own unique songs and dabble a little bit in production in addition to your DJ work, you need to make sure that you are aware of current musical trends. Taking inspiration from other DJs and the most popular musical artists of the moment is a fantastic way for you to learn more about your industry.
Take the time to explore new releases and styles of music. Experimentation is going to be key in helping you stand out as a DJ, especially if you are working in a very competitive . By learning more about your craft, you are going to be able to find that niche that .
Start Improving Your Brand Today
Every great DJ at the top of the industry . You need to make sure that you are working hard to constantly improve as an artist. No matter what type of DJ you wish to become, there is always going to be a way for you to elevate yourself to the next level. Take the time to practice your craft and begin to work your way up the ladder. Before you know it, you could be a professional DJ.