102 · Become a DJ

Becoming a DJ is a very interesting idea for those for whom music is more than just a hobby. It’s an exciting adventure that combines creativity, technical skill, and a love of music. In this article, we’ll explore the different facets of this particular career, offering practical advice for those who aspire to liven up dancefloors. From choosing the right equipment to building your personal brand, we’ll look at the key steps involved in turning this passion into a profession.

• Here's the program
• What is a DJ?
• Why is it so popular today?
• What are the different types of DJ and which one to choose?
• How much does a DJ earn?
• What skills and qualities are required to become a DJ?
• Step-by-step guide to becoming a DJ
  • Learn
  • Find events and clubs to practice
  • Building your brand
• How long does it take to become a DJ and earn money?
• What makes a DJ successful?
• What hardware and software do you need to become a DJ?
• Tips and tricks for becoming a successful DJ
• Conclusion
• EcoTips
• Pros and Cons
• Information recap

What is a DJ?

Well, we all know what a DJ is, don’t we? Is it that guy (or that gal), rather young and handsome, who frantically moves behind his turntables with a very concentrated air, and young people in ecstasy around them who jump like wallabies on LSD, a glass of vodka-Redbull in hand? I admit I’m caricaturing a bit, but there’s a lot more to a DJ than that.

On a more serious note, a DJ (or disc jockey, as my grandfather used to say) is much more than a person standing behind a mixing console. His main mission is to select and play music for an audience, whether at private parties, clubs, festivals or even on the radio. A good DJ knows how to “read” the mood of the room and adjusts his music selection accordingly, ensuring that the energy contained in that crowd of dancers remains at its peak.

But that’s just the visible face of DJing because behind the scenes, this work requires considerable preparation. And this preparation goes far beyond simply selecting tracks; it includes creating playlists adapted to different types of event, adjusting and mixing tracks to ensure a smooth transition between them, and keeping a musical watch to discover new sounds and trends.

A DJ must also master the technical aspects of his equipment, from the configuration of his mixing console to the optimal use of DJing software. The ability to anticipate audience tastes and adapt one’s performance in real time is the fruit of meticulous preparation and in-depth knowledge of the music world, but I’ll come back to this in more detail.

Why is it so popular today?

The popularity of DJs has literally exploded in recent years, turning this passion into a veritable career for many of them. This rise can be explained by the evolution of electronic music and the ease of use of often highly sophisticated equipment, making this path accessible to all who wish to embark on it.

Becoming a DJ today is seen not only as an artistic expression but also as a viable career opportunity, thanks to the huge demand for personalized musical entertainment for a variety of events such as weddings, concerts, festivals, and more.

But why start now? The music industry is constantly evolving, and the digital age has opened up new avenues for those looking to enter the world of DJing. Social networks offer unprecedented ways to make a name for yourself, share your music, and connect with fans around the world. What’s more, the demand for unique and personalized musical experiences is higher than ever, offering a multitude of opportunities for DJs looking to make a name for themselves and succeed in a specific type of DJing.

DJs have the capacity to create an immersive atmosphere, bringing people together around music. They embody an image of freedom and creativity, and that’s why they’re so popular.. Photo: Matty Adame

What are the different types of DJ and which one to choose?

Because, yes, there are different types of DJ, and therefore different ways of approaching this activity, each requiring a specific set of skills and interests. This diversity of roles reflects the richness and variability of today’s music scene.

DJ types are distinguished mainly by the venues where they play, the kind of music they mix, and the way they interact with their audience. Here’s a non-exhaustive list of the different types of DJ you might meet or aspire to become:

• Club DJ: This type of DJ, probably the best known, is responsible for selecting and mixing music in clubs and discotheques to create an electrifying atmosphere for customers. They must have a solid knowledge of different musical genres, be able to analyze the mood, and anticipate which sounds are capable of maintaining a constant energy throughout the night. Many young DJs dream of working in a club, but usually only the most talented with a proven track record succeed.

• Mobile DJs: These bring the party wherever they’re called upon and host a variety of events such as weddings (you know, the one you’re always complaining about because he plays too many or too few slow dances), birthday parties, corporate events, and so on. They need to be versatile and able to adapt to different audiences and moods.

  They have a vast library of music to satisfy a diverse audience, from current hits to timeless classics. Mobile DJs must not only be good entertainers but also have their own sound and lighting equipment to ensure the success of every event entrusted to them.

• Radio DJs: These DJs are responsible for hosting and programming music on an FM or online radio station. They select songs for broadcast, host live shows, may be asked to organize artist interviews, talk about music news, and interact with listeners.

  Radio DJs need to have an in-depth knowledge of music, be at ease on air, and able to hold listeners’ attention while respecting radio’s time constraints. The ability to create a connection with listeners, without seeing them, relies on their choice of music and their on-air personality.

• Concert DJ: This type of DJ usually entertains crowds before or after concerts or between sets by other artists. Their mission is to keep the audience’s energy high, by selecting tunes that complement the mood of the event. They need to be highly flexible, adapting to the musical genres of the main artists to deliver a coherent experience.

  They must be familiar with state-of-the-art equipment such as MIDI controllers and specialized software. Concert DJs must also master the art of live audience interaction to create an immersive experience for the audience.

• DJ Producer: DJ producers are both composers and performers who create their own music, remixes or mashups for recordings, live events, and other projects. They need advanced skills in music production, composition, and arranging to create unique, catchy sounds.

  Turntablists push the boundaries of creativity by using vinyl as a musical instrument to create unique and innovative sounds. And while its roots are deeply rooted in the American hip-hop scene, turntablism transcends the boundaries of this genre and is applied in versatile ways to a variety of musical expressions.

• Turntablists: These turntable virtuosos regard turntablism as an art form, using scratching, beat juggling, sampling, and other advanced mixing techniques to create musical performances. Their approach is often more technical and prowess-oriented, aiming to impress as much with their skill as with their musical selection. Their performance is often seen as a visual and auditory spectacle, requiring great dexterity and a thorough knowledge of DJ equipment.

  Les platinistes repoussent les limites de la créativité en utilisant les vinyles comme instruments de musique pour créer des sons uniques et innovants. Et bien que ses racines soient profondément ancrées dans la scène hip-hop américaine, le platinisme transcende les frontières de ce genre et s’applique de manière versatile à diverses expressions musicales.

Choosing the type of DJ you want to become depends on your musical interests, your personality, and your goals. If you’re passionate about a specific musical genre and enjoy the energy of large-scale events, club DJing could be for you. If, on the other hand, you enjoy variety and want to create memories for special occasions, becoming a mobile DJ could be a path to explore. You need to start by understanding your strengths and musical preferences, so you can steer your career in the direction that’s best for you.

How much does a DJ earn?

The path to becoming a DJ is marked by often modest beginnings, where early experiences are more investments in learning than significant sources of income. Over time, however, a DJ’s remuneration can vary considerably according to the type and extent of his or her talent and notoriety. Let’s take a look at the different types of DJ.

• Club DJ: The income of club DJs depends heavily on the venue, the event, and their reputation. Some may start out playing for minimal compensation, such as free drinks, while more experienced DJs can earn up to 3,000 dollars per night. What’s more, obtaining a permanent position in a club offers a degree of financial security.
• Mobile DJ: Mobile DJs often have a higher initial income than novice club DJs. They usually charge a few hundred dollars per performance, but this figure can rise to several thousand dollars for certain events, depending on their experience and the type of request.
• Radio DJs: Their starting salary can be quite modest, particularly at small local or community stations, but the DJ working for a larger radio station can enjoy a more substantial income, up to 4 or 5,000 dollars a month. The club DJ and this one are the only types where you can expect to have a salaried contract, which is therefore ideal for a quiet, secure career.
• Concert DJs: These DJs can expect a wide range of remuneration, often depending on the scale of the event and their own reputation. Gigs at major festivals can be particularly lucrative, fetching several thousand dollars.
• DJ Producer: These have a broader income potential through royalties, music sales, and performances. Their success is highly dependent on their popularity and the quality of their musical output, but the big advantage here is that these productions can generate passive income over the long term.
• Turntablists: Turntablists can monetize their art through competitions, specialized events, and live performances. Their income is difficult to estimate as it varies widely according to opportunities and recognition in the milieu. What’s more, it’s not possible to make a steady income from it.
• Youtubers/Twitchers: DJs who use YouTube or Twitch as their main platform, or streaming services such as SoundCloud or Spotify, have an income potential that essentially depends on the number of views/listens and subscribers. Although difficult, making a living from these platforms is possible thanks to a solid strategy of publishing content that appeals to a large number of users and building up a sizeable fanbase.

If you’re just starting out in the world of DJing, there’s no need to tell you that you’ll have to be patient and work hard to build up your pool of greenbacks. Some very famous DJs such as Armin Van Buuren, Tiësto, and DJ Snake have managed to accumulate earnings that can reach dizzying heights, often running into millions of dollars a year, but these figures reflect not only their talent and popularity but also their ability to navigate the music industry, capitalizing on years of experience, worldwide tours, and successful musical productions.

The majority of DJs around the world, even if they’re not rich like the ones I’ve just mentioned, have managed to find their way and make a living from their passion for music. So, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t too, provided you do things the right way, with method and perseverance.

What skills and qualities are required to become a DJ?

Becoming a DJ is an art that requires a specific set of skills and qualities, both personal and technical. For those who aspire to a career in this field, understanding what it takes to succeed is the first step towards making it a reality. Here’s an overview of the key qualities and skills needed to become a DJ.

Qualities

• Passion for music: This is the foundation. A deep appreciation of various musical genres is fundamental.
• Patience and perseverance: The road to success can be long and full of pitfalls, which is why it’s important to be tenacious and never give up too quickly.
• Creativity: Being able to innovate and create unique sets that captivate the audience.
• Discipline: Practice regularly and never stop learning in order to evolve.
• Social skills: Excellent communication and networking skills to build professional relationships.

Skills

• Mastering DJ equipment: Acquire in-depth knowledge of the equipment you’ll be using, such as mixers, turntables, DJ controllers, and software.
• Beatmatching: Acquire the ability to align the tempo of two tracks for a smooth mix. Well, that’s the basics too.
• Scratching and mixing: Learning some advanced techniques for manipulating music and creating a distinctive sound can be useful for certain types of DJing.
• Music library management: Organize and know your music collection inside out, so you can quickly select tracks when the time comes.
• Musical knowledge: Understand musical structures but also current genres and trends.
• Technical skills: Quickly solve technical problems that may arise at the least opportune moment and master audio equipment.
• Marketing and promotion: Using social networks and other platforms to promote your sets and personal brand.

More globally, it’s not just technical mastery that defines a good DJ, but also his ability to connect emotionally with his audience, create memorable moments, and adapt to an ever-changing environment.

Step-by-step guide to becoming a DJ

As you can imagine, becoming a DJ isn’t just a wish that comes true overnight. It’s a demanding path that requires passion, dedication, and a well-thought-out strategy. Let’s explore the key steps to becoming an accomplished DJ.

1Learn

Many of those who make their living from this passion have acquired their skills self-taught. Getting started may seem super-difficult, even out of reach for some, but you’ll soon discover that it’s not as complicated as it sounds. In fact, a few hours’ practice is often all it takes to grasp the fundamentals and produce your first good beatmatchings (all the more so as today’s software offers very effective assistance).

So, if you really want to learn, the easiest thing to do is to buy a good-quality mixing console, without breaking the bank, and get down to work. You can also take advantage of tutorials on YouTube, for example, which can help you progress more quickly.

If you’re looking for more structured and flexible courses, e-learning platforms such as Udemy or Skillshare offer modules or complete training courses at very affordable prices. These courses are usually taught by professional DJs with many years’ experience behind them. It’s a great way to learn a variety of techniques and evolve quickly.

And for those looking for a more formal structure, there are specialized schools offering comprehensive training programs for aspiring DJs. The courses they offer cover all aspects of the profession, from the basics of mixing to the more advanced techniques of music production. A quick Google search will tell you if there’s one not too far from your home.

Skillshare offers several courses to help you quickly learn how to become a DJ, as well as various DJing techniques.

2Find events and clubs to practice

Once a solid foundation has been laid, it’s time to get out there and find opportunities to practice and perform in front of an audience. DJs have a multitude of possibilities for work, depending on their preferences and skills. Here are a few tips tailored to different types of DJ to help you find work or clients.

• Club DJ: Club DJs can start by creating a solid online presence, sharing their mixes on platforms like SoundCloud or Mixcloud, as well as on YouTube and other social media. Networking by attending local events and connecting with other DJs and event promoters can open doors. Offering to play for free or at a reduced rate to get yourself known can also be a strategy for getting started quickly.
• Radio DJ: For radio DJs, preparing a demo of your show and sending it to local radio stations is a good place to start. Getting involved with community or university radio stations can also offer valuable experience and increase your visibility. Keep up to date with radio station vacancies and don’t hesitate to apply.
• Mobile DJ: Mobile DJs need to focus on marketing and advertising their services. Creating an attractive website, optimized for search engines, and using social networks to share testimonials and photos of previous events can attract new customers. Registering on platforms dedicated to event providers or working with event agencies can also prove highly beneficial.
• Concert DJ: For DJs wishing to perform live, developing a relationship with event organizers and venue managers is essential. Participating in DJ competitions or battles can increase your visibility. What’s more, working in conjunction with well-known artists or offering to perform opening sets can create live performance opportunities.
• Turntablists: Turntablists, with their unique style, can find opportunities by taking part in DJing competitions, performing at specialist events, or offering scratch workshops. Establishing an online presence where you share your techniques and performances can also attract the attention of potential customers or sponsors.

For all types of DJ, understanding your target market and developing a strong personal brand is crucial. Be sure to provide exceptional customer service to encourage positive word-of-mouth, which remains one of the most effective ways of attracting new proposals.

Finally, don’t overlook opportunities to work abroad. Tourist destinations, internationally renowned clubs and special events often offer lucrative contract opportunities for talented DJs, broadening their professional and cultural horizons in the process.

3Building your brand

Once you’ve acquired solid DJing skills and found your first job opportunities, it’ll be time to build and develop your brand as a DJ. Especially if you’re planning a long-term career. Here are some key steps to achieve this:

• Define your musical identity: Identify the musical genres and mixing styles that set you apart from other DJs. Create a unique sound that represents you and appeals to your target audience.
• Create an online presence: Use social media and create a professional website to showcase your music, past and upcoming performances, and biography. Share engaging content regularly to keep your audience interested and interacting with you.
• Network and collaborate: Build relationships with other DJs, event promoters, club owners, and music industry professionals. Collaborate with other artists and participate in events to increase your visibility and credibility.
• Participate in events and festivals: Play at clubs, bars, festivals, and other local and international events to raise your profile and expand your audience. Take advantage of these opportunities to hand out business cards and interact with your audience.
• Invest in promotion: Use online and offline marketing strategies to promote your performances and music. Collaborating with brands or sponsors can also help you reach a wider audience and boost your credibility.
• Manage your brand image: Take care of your appearance, behavior, and public communication to reflect your musical and professional identity. Create an easily identifiable logo and visual identity to reinforce your brand image.

How long does it take to become a DJ and earn money?

The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, including your level of commitment, practice, and natural talent. There’s no magic formula or shortcut to success as a DJ, but with a methodical and determined approach, you can make rapid progress along your journey. Assume that the more you practice, the faster you’ll progress.

Acquiring the basics of this profession (how DJ equipment works, mixing techniques, music selection…) is the sine qua non condition for being able to make a living from it. So, there’s no need to rush things: first of all, take the time you need to get good enough. This can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on your learning pace.

Then you’ll need time to hone your skills and develop your own musical style. This can also take months or even years, depending on your level of aspiration and dedication. But be aware that the time it takes to become an accomplished DJ can vary greatly from one individual to another.

Once you’ve acquired a satisfactory level of skill, you can start looking for paid work opportunities. Your income will often be meager and irregular at first as it takes time to establish contacts and build a reputation. But remember that the key to your success as a DJ lies in your perseverance, passion, and determination to keep learning and evolving in your art.

What makes a DJ successful?

Let’s turn now to the various elements that contribute to a DJ’s success. Success is the result of a complex combination of factors, ranging from technical mastery to the ability to create an emotional connection with the audience. While some aspects are universally recognized, others can be more subtle and subjective.

At the heart of this success is undoubtedly musical competence, which I’ve already discussed at length in this article (musical knowledge, mixing skills, etc.) as well as innovation and creativity, and personal marketing.

But it’s true that physical appearance and charisma can also influence a DJ’s career. Mind you, when I talk about physical appearance, I’m not saying that you necessarily have to be “beautiful” (beauty being a very subjective notion), but rather that you have to be someone who cares about the image they project, who is well-groomed, well-dressed, etc. In short, if you have the charisma and appearance of Gollum in The Lord of the Rings, put on a suit. or a nice dress and work on improving your behavior with others (if, on the other hand, you’re the real Gollum, you’re already a star!).

On a more serious note, individuals who possess aesthetic appeal and natural charisma may have an advantage in terms of audience attraction and retention. That said, it’s important to stress that these attributes don’t guarantee success on their own. They may open doors and attract attention, but it’s the quality of the performance and the connection with the audience that determine the duration and depth of success.

Finally, networking and professional relationships are undeniable factors in success. Building a solid network with other DJs, promoters, and industry professionals can lead to valuable performance and collaboration opportunities.

What hardware and software do you need to become a DJ?

As an aspiring DJ, acquiring the right hardware and software is essential to developing your skills and experience. Here is a list of recommended hardware and software, with a brief explanation of each.

The equipment

• DJ controller: An essential piece of equipment for mixing and controlling music, it offers features such as jog wheels, faders, and buttons for manipulating sound in real time.
• Laptop: A powerful laptop is required to run DJing software and store your music library. Make sure you have enough memory (16Gb or +) and storage space (1TB or +) to manage your audio files.
• Headphones: Very useful for precise sound monitoring and for preparing your mixes in private. Look for headphones with extended frequency response and good sound isolation.
• Monitoring speakers: These are used to listen to and balance the sound of your mixes. Choose high-quality speakers, specially designed for music production, to achieve precise frequency response.
• External sound card: A high-quality external sound card is also recommended for better audio quality and minimal latency when connecting to your computer.
• MIDI keyboard: Allows DJs to create and manipulate melodies, harmonies, and rhythms in real time, enriching their sets with personalized, interactive musical elements.

Today, only purists still use vinyl to mix. Most DJs work with a controller, which offers unrivalled flexibility and ease of use, better suited to the demands of the modern world and its electronic music. Photo: Krys Amon

Software

• VirtualDJ: Versatile, user-friendly software that offers a full range of features for mixing and manipulating music. It features an intuitive interface and numerous customization options.
• Serato DJ: A very popular program used by many professional DJs—it offers advanced tools for mixing, scratching, beatmatching and music management.
• Traktor Pro: Advanced DJ software with a wide range of creative features, such as real-time remixing, innovative effects and compatibility with different DJ controllers.
• Rekordbox DJ: Software developed by Pioneer DJ, a leader in the DJ hardware industry. It offers seamless integration with Pioneer DJ equipment and lets you prepare tracks before a performance.
• Mixxx: Open-source DJing software with advanced features such as multi-platform support, library management, sound effects, and MIDI controls.
• Ableton Live: Versatile music production software that can also be used for live mixing. It offers unique features such as loop creation, real-time effects processing, and external hardware integration.

Note that the hardware and software choices you need can vary according to the type of DJing, your personal preferences, and your musical style. But beware that professional equipment can quickly become very expensive, and when you’re just starting out, there’s absolutely no need to go straight for top-of-the-range equipment. Try to start with the minimum you really need to learn, and choose equipment with excellent value for money.

For a beginner on a limited budget, the ideal solution is to equip yourself with an entry-level DJ controller compatible with various software packages, accompanied by headphones offering good sound insulation and affordable monitoring speakers.

On the software side, taking advantage of the lite versions included with the controller, and exploring free audio editing tools like Audacity, means you can cover essential needs without breaking the bank.

Tips and tricks for becoming a successful DJ

Finally, here are a few tips that can make all the difference in your quest to become an accomplished DJ.

• Integrate visual elements into your sets: Use VJing/mapping software to synchronize visuals with your music. This will enrich the listening experience and set you apart.
• Take part in online DJ battles: Online competitions can be a great way to measure yourself against others, get constructive feedback, and increase your visibility.
• Use apps to create loops and samples: Explore mobile apps to create unique loops or samples on the move. This will stimulate your creativity and enrich your performance.
• Record and analyze your performances: Film your DJing sessions to observe your interaction with the equipment and identify areas for improvement, both technically and in terms of showmanship.
• Organize live streaming DJ parties: Take advantage of streaming platforms to organize live sessions. This will enable you to practice regularly, receive real-time feedback, and build a community.
• Learn coding to customize your setup: A basic knowledge of coding can enable you to further customize your equipment or use MIDI controllers more creatively.
• Practice with constraints: Limit yourself to one genre or a certain number of tracks for your practice sessions. This will sharpen your creativity and improve your ability to do a lot with a little.
• Swap sets with other DJs: Create a group with DJ friends where each one prepares a set for another. This will expose you to different styles and techniques.
• Get involved in music production: Starting to produce your own music will give you a deeper understanding of musical structures and improve your DJ skills.
• Customize your sound: Find your musical signature. Mix genres, experiment with new sounds, and create sets that set you apart from the rest.
• Stay up-to-date: Keep up with musical trends, but don’t be afraid to explore and integrate lesser-known tracks to surprise your audience.
• Learn digital marketing: Use social networks to promote your sets, share moments of your performances and interact with your community. Publish regular mixes or podcasts online to build and retain your audience.
• Be technically prepared: Master your equipment and be ready to deal with any technical contingencies. Basic knowledge of sound engineering is an asset.
• Take care of your health: DJing can lead to a demanding nightlife. Take care of your physical and mental health to keep your performance at its best. And beware of alcohol and other substance abuse at night.
• Adopt a professional attitude: Be punctual, reliable, and prepared for every performance. Your professionalism will earn you the respect of your peers and your audience.
• Be receptive to feedback: Listen to feedback from your audience and peers. They can be a valuable source of learning and improvement.

Conclusion

We’ve come to the end of this article. In it, we’ve learned that succeeding in this world requires much more than a simple affection for music. From the acquisition of essential technical skills to a deep understanding of the art of reading and captivating an audience, every aspect of this profession contributes to forging an accomplished DJ. We also discussed the importance of choosing the right equipment, developing a solid online presence and, above all, identifying and developing your own distinctive style as a DJ in an already highly competitive industry.

Finding your niche, forging a distinct musical identity, and investing yourself wholeheartedly in your practice are the essential elements for transforming this passion into a genuine professional career. Remember, the road to success is open to everyone!

Constant learning and rigorous commitment are crucial, but armed with determination and perseverance, realizing your dream of making a living from your passion for DJing is entirely possible. Success, paved with patience, sustained effort and a burning passion for music, awaits those who are prepared to dedicate themselves body and soul to it.

Which DJs inspire you most? Do you have a favorite piece of equipment or software that has transformed the way you mix? If not, when do you plan to start DJing?