10 Things You will need starting out as a professional DJ

[@plexq]

Man - I love your videos. I'm just starting DJing, and I'm LOVING it. These videos are a brilliant discussion of DJing from a practical point of view. What actually works instead of a bunch of fluff and opinions. Really love it, and really appreciate it.

[@stuartrobson5265]

All new up and coming DJs need to watch your vids my friend....excellent advice as norm....👍👍👍

[@ClevelandTerry]

Stuart Robson much appreciated my friend.

[@plamaide666]

After DJing for mobile DJ Company for 3 years I have now started my own business and your videos are an amazing amount of help. Thank you so much for doing them

[@ClevelandTerry]

Glad to help

[@matthewpepler9673]

Loving the quality of your knowledge and appreciating your down to earth honesty, thank you and I've subscribed!

[@tangentsoul]

That being familiar with your music comment...TRUR THAT!! I play/listen to most genres of music at my gigs but I recently had a client that requested country and only country. I listen to "pop" country so I'm really not that familiar with the old school r roots of country music, I accepted it just because I wanted to gig, but it actually turned out okay. I did I have three months to prepare so I got myself familiar with their style of country music and was able to do a lot of mixing with a lot of contemporary pop music as well so it actually turned out pretty good.

[@jspruce1]

Very helpful for me as I am embarking on my first gig in 2 weeks. Thanks !

[@ontology3]

Good luck, man!

[@Ianbassfox]

14:15 one minor point…you can daisy chain xlrs without degrading sound however, you open up possibility for a ground loop causing noise. So I try to pack a few carpet squares with me to insulate where the chain is especially when outdoors.

[@mikewiggins6991]

Thanks for the info. I see a lot of my traits in you. I’m a new DJ and I can say I’ve put a check in all ten of your recommendations boxes.

[@chunkychev]

Excellent and objective advice as always , explained in a simple and jargon free way !

[@1531JeromeDjaytheBkackPrince]

Good information on me getting back into the DJ game after being gone from the game for over thirty years. I Djayed from 1977 thru 1989 spinning vinyl records back then. I got the juices flowing again so the "Black Prince " from Lee Film Group is back on the ones and twos on the airwaves next Sunday afternoon live on Facebook from 2-5pm for the 4th of July weekend with an "Old School House Party ". I've got my startup equipment with my computer, dj controller, monitor speakers, workstation, mixing board, djuced software with microphone and stand. I hope that is enough I need for my first virtual dj event next week. Your tips are right on and I have thought thru most of your points as I thought though want I did back in the past. Just a few things have changed but it's all good!

[@georgedjmatrix4229]

Motivation, a Passion for music , and willingness to Learn.

[@djscottymaxx]

great vid Terry, maaan I started out 15 years ago with 2 yamaha 10's, a radio shack mixer, Windows media player, and no lights🤣..... let me just say when you have the bare minimum and can rock crowds its even better once you get higher end stuff and it became even easier to impress. 15 years later I have regular events all year round, have two controllers, speakers, lights, amps, etc...etc. One other thing I stress to other dj's that " made it" in this world, dont ever forget where you started, and dont ever down a beginner, share your knowledge. You do that and I love your vids, thank you Sir.✌️💯

[@ClevelandTerry]

DJ ScottyMaxx my pleasure my friend

[@Kylereeves13]

The background reminds me of where I went to school. Chico State Wildcats!

[@glenroysimmonds5554]

Thanks alot for your information for starters

[@darrynbretzke8949]

Hi Terry a lot of your videos are interesting I’m watching your videos from Australia I have been a DJ for 30 years all the information you have currently put here is valuable to any up-and-coming DJ make sure that no stone unturned and get as much knowledge as you can but you’ve gotta start somewhere as Terry said get a small control to start off learn how to mix even if it’s final records which is good to know and CD and memory card and so on and about everything that is important to be in this industry Get very familiar with your equipment so you can almost do it blindfolded in my case I am a blind person and I mean that literally so you need to know your interface to be able to do it without thinking you should be able to put your hand on anything and almost know what it is the more you do it the better it will be for you and therefore your customers when you get in to do the weddings 21st engagements which ever Find out what is right for you from all the different platforms and controls that are out there think about you expansion make sure you can grow with your equipment so I can be improved and you can add more things if needed

[@DJ_PHILCO79]

Thks

[@CJ-gp9yh]

#10 is gold

[@keithmcdonald6920]

I like how you changed the sound when talking about stereo sound

[@air_rue23]

Def my favorite dj videos on KZbin

[@anthonybryant9087]

Thanks again for the information

[@Harlem_Q_AllDay]

Love the information you provide king.... thank you

[@hereismyusername007]

You have the best, most common sense DJ how to videos. Thank you!

[@ClevelandTerry]

Thank you.

[@DjDiamondLee]

Always great tips

[@paulashton2441]

So smart glad I watched, you have been there done that. Appreciate your time, and i learned a thing or two.

[@djmannyleon9204]

I have almost all the above checked except that I need to work on my attitude. Been struggling dealing with strict venue managers and my lazy helpers.

[@sdmackpictures]

Good information.

[@djmagicmike5979]

Very good positive video that djs need to hear thanks big up 👏👍

[@ClevelandTerry]

Dj Magic Mike thank you

[@kingdomkidsmedia6395]

Appreciate you fam!

[@DJRandyGMusic]

Great topic!! I noticed the change in audio at the 12:16 mark. Stereo to mono? That was cleaver!!

[@ClevelandTerry]

DJ Randy G ding ding. Thanks for being involved. Makes my hard work worthwhile.

[@DJRandyGMusic]

Cleveland Terry Bowens lol. Absolutely.

[@elephantgrass631]

If you're going to mention RCA to XLR, you NEED to mention DI. When you extend an unbalanced signal that long, you run into even more problems, especially if the cable is too long and you have to coil it. Just because you have an RCA on one end with an XLR on the other, DOESN'T mean it's a balanced cable. In fact, what I just described is NOT a balanced cable. Use two DIs or one stereo DI and save yourself the buzz of embarrassment. Props for the video Cleveland. I've just found you and now I'm a subscriber.

[@kidcupid07]

Everything was FACTS!

[@djdrnate3967]

Shirt on point as always, and the video is great too!!!!

[@user-wr2lg7dl6m]

Helpful video!!! Thank you Terry!!!

[@djcpr2009]

Thank You.

[@leonray6638]

Great content right to the point.

[@DJROCKCEEENTERTAINMENT]

great video my brotha !!!!! 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@djphiliptan]

Great advice! I'd add a high-wattage power strip with a long cord, and gaffer tape. Small investments that save you a lot of stress.

[@ClevelandTerry]

+Philip Tan yes sir.

[@thenightraven60]

I would add use proper Gaffer tape if you can get it not the cheaper Duct tape that doesn't stick so well.

[@epicwizedome]

This is definitely true. I have both a DJ bag and a odyssey hard flight case. It definitely makes it easy to transport your gear. If you’re playing small gigs you may want to have a table with linen because sometimes the venue may not have it. Brewery’s... 12” with subs. So, tru about the wireless mics!!!!! Just buy the expensive mic.

[@KeepitRealer]

i like how you did that left right on the audio

[@kymphusmuhammad4356]

Perfect!!! Thank you.

[@JamesMesidor]

Good stuff

[@djtractionmussagy5477]

Hi love what you do big ups man I'm also a dj

[@AnouarSighaoui]

Thanks for the great video! Greetz from the Netherlands

[@ClevelandTerry]

+Anouar Sighaoui wow. Thanks!

[@eai1911]

Great video! You have a new subscriber.

[@djla4558]

Great info like always.

[@DJShuffle07]

First Equipment I have is the Denon set, Two DN-S1000 CDJs, Mixer DN-X120, using with Serato Scratch live, SL1 Sound card, and a Denon Flight case. Stage sound equipment cables, 1. 10 band Equalizer 2. Power Amp 3. Two Optimus 15 4. Four counts of wireless microphones. Like if any question if there’s more yes I have all the equipment large cables everything you name it. 👍🏻👍🏼👍🏽👍🏾👍🏿 And a Pioneer DDJ SB2 ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@lag3432]

great video and information, not a single dislike.

[@nero-one]

subed dope dope videos, always on point, tell 'em the truet and you doo.. respect..

[@hot4futureyears2come]

Good video, Please i cant stress this enough, dont listen to people who thing they know it all. Don't go out and buy a $2000 laptop. if you are starting out just ready to DJ . read the software or hardware recommended specs for your preferred program. you can get away with your laptop you already have for now, Also power speakers are not bad and most of them are not that expensive. used is cheaper, stick to the main brands for the used. Cleveland terry has great videos when you are ready for more professional set ups and equipment. I have a wireless mic by Numark i got on sale for $100. it is great and sounds great at 25 feet. no feedback close either , try to catch any sales you see. it will help you get started.

[@MrTierry64]

Good advice love the videos man. Nice stranger things T-Shirt!

[@djseasick]

My DJ needs list... 1.Music 2. Business cards 3. Transportation Everything else is optional...

[@ClevelandTerry]

You don't need gear?

[@djseasick]

@@ClevelandTerry I personally have gear, lol... But I was trying to focus on NEEDS. A lot of venues/club would have their own setup. Turntables, CDJs/XDJs, Laptops, or whatever can be used if you have music. You can have the tightest setup in the world but without music (in my opinion), you're not a DJ.... Like you said... once you start to establish yourself to higher level, then you can invest in nice dj gear.

[@ClevelandTerry]

+Master Dj SeaSick 👍🏾

[@devijar7909]

I was hoping you touch and what headphones to started off with

[@Djanthonymosley]

Good video I think headphones should have made the list though.

[@mnyez101]

Great content Terry. A lot of stores and companies do no credit check financing nowadays. So get what's needed and pay minimum. Also, can you do a review on wireless xlr systems? Thanks

[@gibsuprooted2734]

Thanks 🙅🏿‍♂️♻️🙅🏿‍♂️

[@roba1365]

Great content as always. I would headphones.

[@ClevelandTerry]

Rob A I thought about you that too.

[@Lucky-r4u]

Love this video and thanks again......

[@calebkent7981]

great video! FYI - balanced XLR and 1/4” is rated for 100m/+300’. i have a $200 unbalanced 1/4” to balanced XLR D.I., so it’s worth it to get a controller with XLR built in. unbalanced 1/4” is only rated 12m/50’. that’s max with optimum situation.

[@ClevelandTerry]

+Caleb Kent very true, but keep in mind this is also for beginners that may not have the resources to get a controller or mixer with XLR

[@air_rue23]

Qsc 12.2 will blow most 15” speakers out of the water

[@earljaxfl]

Totally agree QSC k12.2 is the truth

[@fatherprincipal1]

DJ_RueBoi QSC is the truth still in shock with how loud they are

[@mike._.feliciano6782]

On the speakers...powered or you need an amp Great input

[@DJActionVasquez]

Passive or powered is up to the dj's needs. I personally prefer passive speakers.

[@dadjbig]

Awesome video..

[@scratchgonzo]

What do you think about the modern line speakers people are getting now?

[@djblack7079]

I agree with you I have a DJ for 31 years and I took not a DJ things didn't turn out too good we use his equipment they went to Happy they wanted my equipment my equipment the real deal so I lost the party never do that again

[@mythics791]

cases are key.

[@byromtaylor6482]

....number 1 patience...

[@itsamedjmario]

At least i know now why my cheap wireless mic sucks.. lol.. even tho i do have a 300$ SHURE.. for some reason it gives me feedback/ muffled.. So i went with the cheap one for a while.. Do you think changing the channel on the wireless mic would improve the sound ? maybe when you do the mic vid, you can explain what the different channels are for.. bc I would def like to know... :)

[@jimmycole855]

This guy is a Tiesto in the making

[@oldschooldjernie]

how do you get your gigs is one thing I wanna know

[@tyriecarter9549]

I like to scratch what is the best option for me

[@michagorecki8893]

You forgot about the headphones PS. You remind me of Inspectah Deck Deck from the Wu-Tang Clan. Even your cap logo looks kinda similar to WTC logo ;)

[@jeanettebrown1343]

Can you dj with a iPad? I only need music to go with a mechanical bull ride.

[@heathenthatheretic5960]

Don’t know if you’re responding to this old vid but I’m trying to get into DJaying so are speakers from amazon any good

[@geearc2448]

Appreciate you Cleveland! Let me ask you, when do you think it's important to add a sub. I usually DJ with two 15 inch tops. I usually do parties and weddings 100 to 150 people. Sometime I mask with just the speakers I have to lower the music. However when I do outdoor events sometimes I feel the sub would be nice for sound. What do you?

[@PURESOUND4]

Just my 2 cents.... it depends on which 15" spkrs you have and what type of music you play. Some speakers do a good job with the low end, but others might not sound so great and need subs to fill in the lower notes. Especially on newer hip hop and dance tracks. If all you play is oldies from the 50's, no subs are needed.

[@geearc2448]

@@PURESOUND4 thank you!

[@WillOren]

Having CDJs or the "right controller" doesn't mean "he knows what he's doing". Most clients could give zero thought to what hardware is being used. If it sounds good, they won't care. I understand the issue of perception and 1st impressions too. How much money a DJ has invested in his setup does not always equal quality.

[@ClevelandTerry]

+Will Oren It really depends on the client. You are correct though, investment does not equal quality, but first impressions are important and if the impression from the client is "cheap", you're going to be fighting an uphill battle until you show your skills. However, I didn't say spend all the money on the best controller.

[@abyss104]

You put words in his mouth that he didn't say.

[@johnparker8270]

Business insurance?

[@ClevelandTerry]

💯

[@jean-francoisvezine2536]

Got a question for you. Got a small dj contest and they want a 5 min demo what can i include in only 5 min.

[@ClevelandTerry]

Jean-Francois Vezine there's a lot to that question. I don't know the vibe, genre, style of the contest. There's a lot more info needed.

[@djpuma007]

Well what they want to see is your creativity. You can do phrases to connect or transition the next track or use effect some scratches. In five min you might need to pick parts of the song for 15-30 sec. For five min you probably can do about 10 songs, 5 effects and scratches more or less. Play what feel comfortable, some ppl do just hiphop others do 3-5 or even10 genres but that would be pushing it but it is possible depending how you organized your playlist for the 5 min. You practice a few times and see what works best for you!!!

[@daparxxx192]

💥👌🏾

[@klozher38]

and Don't get drunk at the Gig .... Wait till its over !!!

[@gregorymurray157]

Headphones

[@phinds1]

Great info as usual my brother BUT I have to disagree with the thing you said about placing the speakers to the side or in back of you. The instant you go to speak on the mic,, you’re usually going to get a sh@tload of feedback. Especially if it’s someone who knows nothing about how to hold a mic etc,,,

[@ClevelandTerry]

+phinds1 that depends 100 percent on the level of your audio (speakers and mic) and where it’s pointed. Just being in front of a speaker with a mic does not cause feedback. It’s when the mic is too hot or the speakers too loud that triggers the frequency response. When I said turn the speakers towards you i didn’t mean directly at you. Just slightly angled so you can hear it. Also if the speakers are behind you, your body will act as a natural frequency barrier.

[@phinds1]

Cleveland Terry Bownes agreed ,, I’ve got a wireless 58 and every time someone wants to make a speech, they get nervous,, start walking around and not holding the mic to their mouth. I’ll tell them to hold it to their mouth but 10 seconds later they go right back to holding it 10 inches away! Which in turn forces me to ride that gain trimmer. One wrong move and it’s WEEEEEE!!! So annoying!

[@ClevelandTerry]

phinds1 lol. Yup, I love human beings.

[@phinds1]

Cleveland Terry Bowens They’re the best! Lol Cheers!

[@digitaljackass]

ha jokes on you i'm DJ JanSport

[@ClevelandTerry]

+DJ AJ Ha!!!

[@djtroy4919]

Get a black and a white table cloth

[@mrndlprsnr]

with respect where i come from that's not peace...great vid otherwise

[@ClevelandTerry]

I don’t know what you’re referring to?

[@bboymac84]

Buy a cheap 10inch monitor

[@soulriter]

Great video