Getting booked as a DJ

Aloha,

Occasionally I am asked about how to get booked as a DJ, playing in clubs, lounges and/or bars. It can be tough for up and coming DJs to learn the industry and how to get started. Below are some ideas that may be helpful when you are ready to move from the bedroom to the club. I am not saying this is a complete list, just things I have learned and have worked for me.

1) Play every show you can at first, even if there is no pay involved. The experience will pay off.

2) Get to know the promoters and DJs that run and operate your local record shop. Most promoters and DJs that work in the local record shop are available during the day. It is hard to strike up a conversation about your demo in a loud, busy club.

3) Your demo cd...make it honest! Don't fix your mix with software. So your first decent demo has a bad or sloppy mix. Keep it! Over time as you work on your skills, your improvement will be recognized and hopefully rewarded.

4) When scouting a club, make sure your musical style matches with what the patrons want to hear. "Will people in this lounge want to hear happy hardcore?" "Will people in this dance club want to hear trippy IDM?"

5) Be seen! Club promoters and DJs typically book people they know and can trust. It takes time to get to know people yet people do business with people, not strangers.

6) Be honest if someone asks you how many people will come out to see you play. If you know that only 5 of your best friends will make it out than “5” is what you say to the promoter. Bottom line, be honest with people.

7) Make sure you show up on time and touch base with the promoter a few days before the show. This lets the promoter know that you are dependable and serious about what you do.

8) Use the internet! With all the opportunities to meet people, upload your mixes and network, the internet can be a great way to let people know who you are.

9) Know your price! If you are going to meet a promoter or DJ that might book you, be ready to tell them how much you charge. This is tough sometimes to figure out. Depending on how long they want you to play, I would say $50 is a good starting point. If you have friends that DJ on a regular basis, they should be able to give you some insight into what to charge.

10) Always have demos on you, where ever you go. You never know who you will meet.

Well I hope this helps!

Geoffrey / Mint DJ