There are hundreds and thousands of different directions in modern music, from string and classical to electronic. The history of electronic genres began around the 1980s, when disco clubs first started not to play live dance compositions, but to mix played records with the help of synthesizers and records.
Soon there were special mixing consoles, on which the musician could compose his own sound composition. Thus appeared an energetic, rhythmic and extremely musical profession – DJ.
Features of The Profession of A DJ
A DJ is a creative profession, however, with a large percentage of technical creativity. All sounds and various ready-made tracks a DJ mixes with the help of special equipment and computer programs.
The following professions can be considered the closest to this type of activity:
- sound engineer;
- arranger.
Creating his own track a DJ can change the tempo, rhythm and key of the music so that they seamlessly fit together. Famous DJ’s often write their own music and then create covers and remixes of their own works.
The most common place DJs work is at nightclub parties and club music concerts. There they can mix tracks in advance or change them as they play. However, the content of the DJ set and its direction is negotiated in advance.
Basic equipment of a DJ:
- audio players;
- Laptops with special sound editors.
It is extremely rare to use gramophone records now, although 20 years ago they were the main instrument of sound.
What Exactly Does A DJ Do During Performances
A DJ actually works for himself, so most topically he signs contracts with various clubs for a certain number of performances. Therefore, his responsibilities to his employers may vary – it all depends on the arrangements.
Usually they include:
- Creating a track list for certain parties;
- conducting events;
- working with audiences and colleagues;
- Improvisation and creation of copyright compositions.
Sufficiently promoted and popular DJs are also managers of themselves, so they have to deal with the promotion and advertising of their future performances: organize shooting clips, negotiating for performances, etc.
In order to be successful, a DJ must:
- have a good understanding of musical trends;
- To follow musical fashion and listen to a lot of different music;
- Know the device of all the equipment he uses, know how to create different compositions;
- Be able to improvise well.
Requirements for The Profession Of DJ
As a rule, clubs and concert venues expect a DJ to take over the entire musical accompaniment of parties. Therefore, at employment he is required to:
- Availability of a track list;
- the availability of their own equipment;
- The ability to improvise and make contact with the audience.
Where Can Work A DJ
As mentioned earlier, a disc jockey works in the entertainment industry, and today he can be found in the following establishments:
- nightclubs;
- restaurants;
- hotel complexes;
- radio stations.
Also, a DJ can work at private events and celebrations (corporate parties, weddings, birthdays, etc.).
Most often a DJ works at night, on weekends and holidays. The work schedule depends a lot on himself, but the performances can last two, four hours, or all night.
Where Do You Study to Become A DJ?
A DJ is one of the few musical professions for which there is no systematic education. Everything is tied to the love of music, the ability to improvise, and all training comes down to the knowledge of working with the remote control and special programs (the most common DJ Pro). As a rule, beginning DJs choose several ways:
- Learning from an experienced DJ;
- training videos;
- DJing courses.
Personal Qualities of The DJ Profession
In order to work as a DJ, you must have the following qualities:
- A musical ear;
- musical taste;
- energy;
- communication skills;
- efficiency;
- good diction;
- purposefulness.
How Much Do Djs Earn
The amount of income a DJ earns depends entirely on how popular he is and in what venues he performs. A young and not very famous DJ may not get anything for his performances at all. However, with the promotion and growth of skills, he earns fame and can already put a certain price tag for their services.
When they enter the international arena, their income increases manifold. They perform at major venues in various countries, shoot music videos, and collaborate with famous singers. However, their fees are most often not advertised.
Pros and Cons of The DJ Profession
The positive aspects of the profession include the following:
- There are no educational requirements;
- Opportunity to start a career at any age;
- interesting projects;
- The opportunity to create your own music;
- The ability to travel and perform in different cities and countries.
The disadvantages are:
- The need to purchase very expensive equipment;
- Long working hours;
- Difficult travels during out-of-town gigs or tours;
- Most often a non-permanent source of income;
- Regular work in stuffy rooms with very loud music has a bad effect on health.
Where Do Djs Get Their Music?
- SoundCloud
SoundCloud is a huge (possibly the world’s largest) source of music. Its main advantage and disadvantage is the lack of moderation. Every user can upload his own track or remix and get feedback. It’s simple: you search for tracks by tags and subscribe to fascinating musicians (or accounts with a set of music that suits you).
- YouTube
Oddly enough, a huge number of people post their music on YouTube. Often authors will leave a link to download their tracks in the description. Even if it’s not there, you can easily find it on other resources.
- Shazam
We’re not talking about the fact that you can shazam a track from the radio or from a DJ’s set. Shazam has its own music tops where you can find interesting tracks very regularly.
- Blogs
In Europe and the U.S. a lot of talented musicians were first noticed by scouting blogs.
- Stores
- iTunes
- Beatport
- Juno Download
- Amazon Music
- Streaming Services
Not so long ago, iTunes and other music stores were replaced by streaming services. Look for playlists with dance music.
- Spotify
- Apple Music
- Tidal
- DJ City
One of the most popular promo pools in the world. A good service not only with a huge database of DJ-friendly tracks, but also with its own tops and trend charts. Sometimes there are very interesting exclusives and instructional videos here.
There is an app for Desktop and iOS.
- BPM Supreme
Another good service with, in my opinion, the most user-friendly interface. Huge database of tracks and remixes in different versions.
There is an app for iOS.
We hope that our article helped you!