This is a short post on how you can start DJing, get your feet wet in the art & business of being a disc jockey and find gigs. There are numerous DJs out there and especially on Craigslist or on the web. There are DJs in every town and dozens of DJ websites showcasing; skills, pictures, music, info, prices and more. So how can you get in the mix of being a mobile or club DJ? Do you know anybody who's a DJ? Have you ever been to a party, wedding or function where they had a DJ?
First thing you need of course in quality equipment. Quality equipment isn't that expensive. You can find good equipment on the web or any music professional's store such as; Guitar Center, Sam Ash, George's music, etc. The equipment you need is going to be in another article so check that out. Once you have your basic DJ setup; CD players, speakers, case, dance floor light and maybe a couple of speaker stands, than you can move onto the next step. You definitely want to check and re-check your equipment before you even begin to do any kind of event. I have seen many DJs who have some good equipment mixed with home stereo type parts and end up closing down shop early.
Next you will want to find a gig or show. For you inspiring mobile DJs, the way I originally got into the business of DJing is by performing at local fundraisers and charity walks. Great places to look into for your first gigs are the Heart Walk, MS Walk, etc. Many large cities or even small towns have benefits and charity events to help out an organization. Find out the contact information for one of these places and send your contact information to them. You will want to donate your time for the first few that you do to get your foot in the door. I also had some professional flyers made and faxed them (yes I faxed them because it was the 90s) to organizations and schools for their charity events. Make sure you have business cards handy at the events you do. Once I had a few people take my cards at these free charity events then I had a couple of them call me to perform at birthdays and picnic type events. One major tip that I can give you which is a huge mistake that many DJs make on Craigslist or Classifieds is the name they use. "DJ Scratch'em, DJ Powerhouse Pump it, DJ
Knock'em Out." Those are not names that other organizations would feel comfortable referring business to. Pick a name that highlights your service or company. Something creative but isn't going to scare your potential customers. A walk-a-thon type of event is more interested in a company that uses something like, "Music Masters Entertainment," or "Modern DJ Productions." Those are just examples and you can come up with something along those lines. Good luck and I will be adding more information on this topic.
If I have any DJs who started many years ago or started from the ground up, we'd love to hear how you got started in the disc jockey industry. How did you get noticed? If you are a new upcoming DJ what are your plans and ideas to get started? Questions and comments welcome!
- Billman
DJ Miami FL
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