6 Essential Steps to Becoming a Successful DJ

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 21 June 2023 9 min read

Are you dreaming of making people dance to your tunes? If you're interested in learning how to become a DJ, you've come to the right place. In this blog post, we'll walk you through six essential steps to help you on your journey to becoming a successful DJ. So, let's get started!

Step 1: Understand the Basics

Before you start spinning tracks, it's important to understand some basic concepts about the world of DJing. We'll cover music genres, equipment, and DJ roles to give you a solid foundation.

Music Genres

As a DJ, you'll be working with a wide range of music genres. Some popular ones include:

Electronic Dance Music (EDM)
Hip-hop
House
Techno
Pop
Rock

It's essential to familiarize yourself with various genres and stay updated on music trends. This will help you cater to different audiences and create engaging sets.

Equipment Overview

DJing requires specific equipment to mix and play music. Some essential gear you'll come across includes:

Turntables
CDJs (digital media players)
DJ controllers
Mixers
Headphones
Speakers

Don't worry; we'll dive deeper into equipment selection in step 3. For now, just get familiar with these terms.

DJ Roles

Not all DJs do the same thing. Here are some common DJ roles you might encounter:

Club DJ: Performs at nightclubs, bars, and parties, focusing on creating a high-energy atmosphere.
Radio DJ: Hosts radio shows, interacts with listeners, and plays music according to the station's format.
Mobile DJ: Provides music and entertainment for events like weddings, corporate parties, and birthdays.
Turntablist: Skilled in advanced techniques like scratching and beat juggling, often participating in DJ battles and showcases.
Producer-DJ: Creates original music and remixes, often performing their tracks during live sets.

As you learn how to become a DJ, think about which role aligns best with your interests and goals.

Step 2: Develop Your Skills

Once you've got a grasp of the basics, it's time to start refining your DJ skills. In this section, we'll cover three key techniques you'll need to master: beatmatching, mixing, and scratching.

Beatmatching

Beatmatching is the art of synchronizing the beats of two songs so they play seamlessly together. It's a fundamental skill for every DJ, as it helps create smooth transitions between tracks. To practice beatmatching, try the following:

Choose two songs with similar BPM (beats per minute).
Start the first song and let it play for a while.
Begin the second song on your headphones, adjusting its speed to match the first song's beat.
Once the beats are aligned, slowly fade from the first song to the second.

It might take some time to get the hang of it, but with practice, you'll be able to beatmatch like a pro.

Mixing

Mixing involves blending two or more songs together to create a unique sound. It's a crucial skill for DJs, as it allows you to showcase your creativity. Here are some tips to help you improve your mixing:

Learn about song structure and phrasing to identify the best points for transitions.
Use EQ (equalization) to balance bass, mid, and treble frequencies while mixing.
Experiment with different mixing techniques, such as cutting, fading, or using effects.

Remember, practice makes perfect. The more you mix, the better you'll become at creating captivating sets.

Scratching

Scratching is a technique where you manually move a vinyl record or jog wheel back and forth to produce unique sounds. It's an advanced skill, often associated with turntablists and hip-hop DJs. To start learning how to scratch, follow these steps:

Choose a simple scratch sound, like a short vocal sample or a drum hit.
Place your hand on the record or jog wheel and move it back and forth, creating the scratch sound.
Practice different scratch patterns and rhythms to develop your own style.

Scratching can add flair and excitement to your sets, but it's not essential for every DJ. Focus on mastering beatmatching and mixing first, then try your hand at scratching if it interests you.

Step 3: Choose the Right Equipment

Once you've developed your skills, it's time to invest in the right equipment. In this section, we'll discuss three essential pieces of gear for any aspiring DJ: controllers, mixers, and headphones.

DJ Controllers

DJ controllers are all-in-one devices that allow you to control software on your computer or standalone hardware. They come in various sizes and price ranges, so it's essential to pick one that suits your needs and budget. Consider the following when choosing a DJ controller:

Compatibility with your preferred DJ software, such as Serato, Traktor, or Rekordbox.
Number of channels, which determines how many audio sources you can mix at once.
Size and portability, especially if you plan to perform at different venues.

Some popular DJ controller brands include Pioneer DJ, Numark, and Native Instruments. Do some research and try out a few models before making your decision.

Mixers

A mixer is a device that allows you to blend multiple audio sources, adjust EQ, and add effects. While many DJ controllers have built-in mixers, you might want to invest in a standalone mixer if you're using turntables or CDJs (CD players designed for DJs). Here are a few factors to consider when selecting a mixer:

Number of channels, which should match your setup (e.g., two turntables or four CDJs).
Quality of built-in effects and EQ, which can enhance your mixing capabilities.
Inputs and outputs, ensuring compatibility with your other equipment.

Some well-known mixer brands are Allen & Heath, Rane, and Pioneer DJ. As with controllers, it's a good idea to test out several options before settling on a mixer.

Headphones

High-quality headphones are essential for accurate monitoring and cueing while DJing. They should be comfortable, durable, and provide excellent sound isolation. When choosing DJ headphones, keep the following in mind:

Over-ear or on-ear design, depending on your comfort preference.
Swiveling ear cups, which allow you to monitor with one ear while listening to the main mix with the other.
Frequency response and sound quality, ensuring you can hear all the details in your tracks.

Popular DJ headphone brands include Sennheiser, Audio-Technica, and V-MODA. Take the time to find a pair that meets your needs and feels comfortable during long DJ sets.

With the right equipment in hand, you'll be well on your way to becoming a successful DJ.

Step 4: Create a Unique Sound

As you learn how to become a DJ, it's essential to develop a sound that sets you apart from the crowd. This involves curating playlists, finding your niche, and experimenting with different styles.

Curating Playlists

Creating unique and engaging playlists is a crucial aspect of DJing. You'll want to have a diverse selection of tracks at your disposal that cater to different tastes and moods. Here are some tips for curating playlists:

Stay up-to-date with new releases and underground gems in your preferred genres.
Organize your music by mood, energy level, or genre for easy access during your sets.
Include a mix of popular hits, lesser-known tracks, and personal favorites to create an interesting listening experience.

Remember that your playlists should evolve over time as you discover new music and refine your style.

Finding Your Niche

Discovering a niche within the DJ world can help you stand out and attract a dedicated fan base. Your niche might be a specific genre, a unique mixing style, or a combination of both. Here's how to find your niche:

Explore various music genres and subgenres to find the ones that resonate with you.
Identify your strengths and interests as a DJ and focus on developing those aspects of your craft.
Attend live shows and listen to other DJs to gain inspiration and find your unique spin.

Once you've found your niche, you can tailor your playlists, mixing techniques, and branding to reflect your distinct sound.

Experimenting with Styles

While it's essential to have a unique sound, don't be afraid to experiment with different styles and techniques. This can help you grow as a DJ and keep your sets fresh. Here are some ideas for experimentation:

Try mixing different genres or tempos to create unexpected transitions and mashups.
Incorporate live elements, such as drum machines or synthesizers, into your performances.
Experiment with effects, loops, and samples to add texture and depth to your mixes.

By pushing your boundaries and trying new things, you'll not only develop your skills but also create a more engaging and memorable experience for your audience.

With a unique sound in place, you're one step closer to becoming a successful DJ. Now it's time to focus on building your network and promoting yourself.

Step 5: Network and Promote

Once you've honed your skills and developed a unique sound, it's time to get your name out there. Networking and promotion are crucial when learning how to become a DJ. Here's how to build connections, promote yourself, and collaborate with others in the industry.

Using social media is an excellent way to showcase your talent and connect with fans. Here are some tips for making the most of your online presence:

Create profiles on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to post updates, share your mixes, and engage with your audience.
Consider starting a YouTube channel or Twitch stream to share live performances and tutorials.
Use hashtags and engage with other DJs, producers, and music enthusiasts to expand your reach and build your network.

Remember to be consistent and authentic with your posts, as this will help you develop a loyal following.

Building Connections

Networking is key to becoming a successful DJ. By building connections within the industry, you can open doors to opportunities and learn from experienced professionals. Here are some ways to establish meaningful connections:

Attend local DJ events, workshops, and conferences to meet like-minded individuals and expand your network.
Join online forums and social media groups dedicated to DJing and music production.
Reach out to local venues, promoters, and event organizers to introduce yourself and express your interest in collaborating.

As you build your network, be genuine, helpful, and supportive of others in the industry. This will create a positive reputation and encourage others to support you in return.

Collaborations

Working with other DJs, producers, and musicians can help you grow as an artist and reach new audiences. Here are some ideas for collaborating with others in the industry:

Offer to remix or produce tracks for local artists to showcase your skills and gain exposure.
Collaborate with other DJs on live performances, podcasts, or online shows to expand your reach and learn from their experiences.
Partner with local venues, event organizers, or online platforms to host your events or share your mixes.

Collaborations not only help you gain experience and visibility but also strengthen your network and connections within the industry.

Now that you've built a solid foundation in promoting yourself and networking, it's time to get out there and gain real-world experience.

Step 6: Gain Experience

Experience is invaluable when learning how to become a DJ. The more you perform, the better you'll become at reading the crowd, improvising, and dealing with unexpected challenges. Here are some ways to gain experience and build your DJ resume:

Local Gigs

Starting with local gigs is a great way to gain experience and build your reputation. Here are some ideas for finding opportunities in your area:

Offer to DJ at friends' parties, weddings, or other private events.
Reach out to local bars, clubs, and restaurants to inquire about DJ opportunities or open mic nights.
Collaborate with local event organizers to provide music for community events, charity functions, or art shows.

Local gigs not only help you gain experience but also allow you to network with people in your community who can help you find more opportunities in the future.

Online Performances

Streaming your DJ sets online can help you reach a wider audience and showcase your skills. Here are some platforms to consider for online performances:

Stream live DJ sets on platforms like Twitch, YouTube, or Facebook Live.
Upload recorded mixes to SoundCloud, Mixcloud, or YouTube to share with your followers and attract new fans.
Join online DJ communities and participate in virtual events or competitions to gain exposure and connect with other DJs.

Online performances can help you build a global following and potentially attract the attention of promoters, record labels, or other industry professionals.

Music Festivals

Performing at music festivals can be a significant milestone in your DJ career. To reach this level, you'll need to build a strong portfolio, network, and following. Here are some tips for landing festival gigs:

Submit your mixes or press kit to festival organizers and promoters.
Network with other artists, promoters, and industry professionals who can recommend you for festival lineups.
Consider entering DJ competitions, as many winners earn spots on festival stages.

Performing at festivals can help establish you as a professional DJ and open doors to even bigger opportunities in the future.

By following these six essential steps, you'll be well on your way to becoming a successful DJ. Stay focused, keep learning, and most importantly, have fun with your craft!

If you've enjoyed exploring the world of electronic music and want to dive deeper, don't miss the workshop 'Making Electronic Music: An Introduction' by Leslie Wai. This workshop provides a comprehensive introduction to the exciting world of electronic music production, giving you the tools and knowledge to start creating your own unique sounds.