Are
you ready for a major throwback? The first ever dance party that involved a
DJ was in 1943 where a person named Jimmy Savile played Jazz records for his
guests. While, the first ever DJ mixer was designed in 1971 for the Haven Club
by Alex Rosner. Since then, technology has revolutionized and evolved drastically.
Back then, people used to practice their DJ-ing skills on vinyl and turntables
which is completely obsolete for those practicing today.
Today, the skills required to be a
good DJ, whether as a part timer or making a full time living out of it, is
different. In order to make a mark and get a competitive edge, it is important
that you think beyond matching different beats or getting latest tracks as soon
as they are released. Popular DJs such as Armin van Buuren or Tiesto with
decades of experience are leveraging latest technologies in the domain to stay
at the top. Apart from this, you may also need non-music skills to become an
all-around good DJ.
Thereby, if you have not started
out as a DJ yet or are planning to take your game to the next level, here are five
important skills that will help you remain competitive and current.
BE AN ENTERTAINER
You might have heard many people
say that DJs should only focus on playing the music. Before proceeding, let’s
get one thing clear – when we talk about DJ, we mean entertainment. Yes, music
should be the primary and majority part. But, having great interpersonal skills
to keep the audience engaged at all times is something that will help you improve
get better. Being charismatic will allow you to connect with the people who are
present to listen to your music.
LEARN TO USE MIDI CONTROLLERS
Previously, female night club DJ used turntables and
vinyl to play music and entertain the crowd with their mixing skills. Nowadays,
they make use of Midi controllers to get the most of a single track. It is
important for every DJ, new or existing, to learn how to use it properly in
order to reap the benefits. A Midi controller can help you create live remixes
and dynamic music on the go.
GROW YOUR NETWORK ‘MUSICALLY’
It is extremely difficult for a
beginner DJ to make a name and get his/her music heard. There are so many
upcoming and emerging talents that it is not easy to get the spotlight. This is
where this non-music skill comes in handy! Every DJ should have the ability to
network to let the hard work pay off. It is important to keep connecting with
other DJs around you and growing your circle to get yourself more opportunities
and a smooth path towards success.
PRODUCE, REMIX, MASH UP, REPEAT
Gone are the days when DJ-ing was
all and only about beat matching and transitioning one song into other. In
today’s time, when we talk about a DJ, we mean producing, remixing, and more.
Any professional DJ will have a portfolio of ‘banging’ tracks, remixes, and
mash ups that would complement with good mixing skills. Furthermore, this gives
you an opportunity to be different than others. You are not going to make an
impact by playing a half/full song. If you are serious about your career as a
DJ/producer, be different!
ENJOY THE MUSIC
Last, but not the least, you should
be enjoying and having the time of your life while you are performing the gig.
Playing good music is not sufficient enough to call yourself a DJ. Instead, you
should perform and enjoy it with the crowd and connect with them on an
emotional level.
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