5 Do's and Don'ts When DJing Live

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So you have your first DJ set! In this video learn the do's and don'ts of DJIng in clubs.
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[@fyen279]

Would love to see the video on successful older DJs!

[@Chris-pp6eh]

yes me to i.m 35 years and my dream are to do in a club 1 time in my life or more:P in hardstyle i wild like to know how to find promotors and stuf for that (fivebpmz) chris

[@kimchi_b]

@@Chris-pp6eh You are still young enough buddy to fit in easily, just go for it :D

[@charlie3rown808]

Same! I’ve been in the scene over 20 years but am new to DJing. Old guys rule!

[@rjgowrie]

I’m monthsssssa away from getting anywhere near playing live…. But there’s a couple awesome venues around here that survived and thrived during Covid times. I’m gonna start sharing their content and shows rather than just consuming them. Also the promoters I know at least one personally and all of them definitely seem emotionally invested as you say :) Thanks for another epic Video Andrew

[@thisisjb...]

Yep fully agree a video on how to get on being an older DJ whos friends have moved on from the Club scene would be great, its hard enough to get them to follow socials let alone come out to a club

[@kimchi_b]

Definitely!

[@djwickey5516]

I’m old. Almost 50. Still a bedroom DJ. Played a few times for the office where I work. But I’m reeeeaaally interested to get your advice for old people.

[@kimchi_b]

Me too!

[@ZacharySound]

@@kimchi_b Never grow up.

[@Minoritynomad]

im curious, what limitations do you believe age present? Many of the worlds best Djs are 40+

[@ZacharySound]

@@Minoritynomad It presents ZERO limitations. That's the long and short of it.

[@ClydeBickford]

I'm 44, Very interested to hear your advise for us older guys

[@danjohnson7201]

Would absolutely love to hear your tips for older DJs!

[@dj-peterofficial2753]

As an older DJ I can tell that it's not about your age. At 50+ I had my best 2 years as a DJ up until the pandemic and restrictions stopped it all. +200 gigs/year, in all kind of situations, from private to corporate events, to bars, clubs and party cruisers, literally all ages. One huge difference I hear in this video not really explained, is the difference living far outside larger cities, like I do. I have no chance to visit clubs beforehand, and I rarely have since I was in my 20's. To over prepare is not what I call it, but rather being well prepared for what might happen. Even months when I don't have gigs for possible genres, I make sure to include a few of the best and a few of my own liking to all the genres every month. I often get to go to clubs with very little prepare time, as I play for a big DJ rental service, the largest in Scandinavia, and there's a constant shift among DJ's to get the best DJ's to where the requirements are the highest. Experience makes all the difference to get a lot of gigs, but it's expected that I can adopt to pretty much whatever restrictions and requirements I get on arrival. For me it's a challenge I love, but it's not for everyone, and it's all because my love for new music. If the music is more of a tool to get gigs and to be a DJ, you better stick to what you love to play, and have time for preparations. It's really important to find out where the fun in DJi'ng is for you, and not think that what everyone else is doing, is what you will like. It might be, but I have seen DJ's make complete fools of themselves asking for and getting gigs they are not prepared for, when they could have done exceptionell well playing events better suited to their skills.

[@kimchi_b]

Great insight thanks! It sounds like you've been DJing for quite a few years, and possibly very experienced? That's a bit different from folks like myself who've been music heads for probably about as long but have no real experience starting out from nothing. Any tips and advice really welcome, many thanks!

[@dj-peterofficial2753]

@@kimchi_b Yes, since 1985, but what's really getting me the variety of gigs is the knowledge in and about music, and that is something you carry with you if you have been interested in music up until now. Now you need to get the hang of the basic mixing skills required to play the genres you'd like to play, and by that I don't mean you need to be the next James Hype, but rather know when long transitions suites best, when cutting the mixes short to complete cuts or ''1,2,3,4 swap'' and when it's required to mix in key. A couple of variants for each style that you practice until you can do them in your sleep. Then you're ready to get out there, and please don't use sync, or ride the wave forms on top of each other. It might take you to your goal faster, but if the gear you end up with on a gig don't have these features, you're in trouble. Learning to mix by ear and separate screens will make you confident to use any gear out there, and you can expect that the second or third floor where you probably will start, will have the outdated gear, like the first gen Pioneer CDJ-2000, or cheaper models like the CDJ-850. Both players are still perfect to use for a set, as long as you can mix in a traditional way. The thing with the Pioneer club gear is that they last practically forever, and they have never been cheap. On the other hand, most parts that needs service or to be swapped out are very cheap, so most first gen CDJ-2000's are still in business, just not on the main floor. Most important is that you have fun, and then the adventure can begin.

[@DJ.Skyhawk]

Still pursuing that elusive first gig, but feeling more and more confident each time I stream. Club Ready DJ school is the real deal. Thank you Andrew.

[@theiguy99]

Definitely... Plz! A quick video on some advice and suggestions for us older DJ's would be fantastic!! The struggle feels a lot more intense that it probably is haha. So some reassuring words would be greatly appreciated 🙂

[@RecoilTechno]

I really like the consistency in all the tips you give throughout your videos, it helps reinforce these basic, but highly important concepts in DJing. Cheers!

[@marcosvelez4148]

Yup, I'm an older guy. Could use that video for sure. Thanks!

[@salvature]

Your energy is amazing man, good video.

[@MW2GEEK99]

Every video you make , I feel like I’m this much closer to finding my first gig. Your point about dropping the ego and paying your dues resonated with me. Thank you Andrew as always!

[@KYLOWW]

Love the advice and positive energy. While Covid is somewhat still in my area i've been streaming online and preparing myself that way when the venues start opening up I will be able to perform live. 🙏🙏🙏

[@ChilledP]

Thank you for making videos like this. So interesting to listen to. I've been producing music for a few years now and recently been exploring the art of DJing. I love watching so many of your videos and you come across as such a cool guy to be around.

[@michaelcoaker3020]

Solid advice all around… the points on supporting the events and promotors can never be overstated. I’m now a resident at two events, playing only techno, and your advice has been critical in taking my game to the next level. Thank you and all the love and light brother ❤️❤️

[@_traphic]

I get my first controller in the mail in a few days. I cant wait to have some fun & learn !! i love your videos.

[@rhysmason4662]

I'm a total newbie to DJ'ing and bought my DDJ100 a few weeks back. Your videos are such a joy to watch, so much passion and really helping me improve. Thanks for sharing this and here's to hoping dance floors will be reopening soon around the world 🙌

[@stephendarke3219]

Love tips for older DJs. Thx Andrew

[@ClubReadyDJSchool]

No problem!

[@bryancraigiefisher]

Older DJ tips for sure... I’m one of them :)

[@franKeyM]

Yes please, I would be very interested in you talking about older DJs. Especially those of us just starting out. Thanks for the amazing content you provide. Cheers!

[@markdjhunter9080]

Another great video, so helpful and a decent bloke as well, not a diva....

[@dantebouwmeister6936]

This dude actually helped me go back to my old hobby and by doing that I’m actually earning a little bit of income as well this summer I’m playing in house parties and raves ❤️

[@movesusmusic]

Yes, I'd definitely like to hear your advice for older DJs.

[@trevorsharman4338]

Andrew, i am a older DJ in the making (just turned 51) i took it up to play at our own family parties 2 and half years ago as we had 6 significant mile stone birthdays, after doing a party befror the pandemic hit here in australia i said i enjoy this and see where it gose mid last year i started doing live stream sets on twitch and now im currently doing your controler to club ready course and learning heaps each time i watch a lesson, it has been amazing journey and looking forward to where ever it leads me.... keep up the good content cheers DJ Scrappa would love to see a video on older DJ's

[@Chazzsg]

Love every single one of your videos and would love to hear about how you read a crowd 🙂

[@dhrbakker8032]

Beautiful when you treat the karma side of dj-ing!! Valuable knowledge.

[@shanecostelloe4701]

Great video as always. Would like a video on older DJs!

[@raylions2551]

Just turned 40. Never played in front of people. Hoping to eventually. Love your course and got a ton out of it. Stay gold!

[@ChrisConnop]

Time Section Title 00:00 Intro 00:15 No.1 - Always Over Prepare 02:59 No.2 - Atmosphere Is Everything! 05:50 No.3 - Support The Event 08:00 No.4 - Build Social Proof!!! 10:08 No.5 - Find Things To Appreciate 11:05 Bonus Do's & Don'ts 11:30 Outro

[@bushtucker66]

Always solid advice.🤘

[@Atem_S.]

Well said!

[@modishmark]

Love your advice and insight every week but if you did a thing for older DJs that would be so great. Thanks Andrew

[@DjCavernas]

Excelentes videos saludos amigo

[@keithhaly3299]

I'm just about to turn 63 and although I may not be physically as fit as younger DJs my mind is still aged 21 and passionate about music. Bring on the video for us old farts😎

[@edgarlize6051]

Interesting your advices my friend regards

[@Xavier_Vincent]

love to see a video on younger/underage Dj's, and how gigs can be secured by them

[@danepastor516]

I have the same kind of questions in mind. As someone who isn't old enough to dj in a club where can I start?

[@frederikskipper7983]

@@danepastor516 Play at house parties, private events etc.

[@danb_ix]

@@danepastor516 rock up to your local school and ask if you can dj proms/graduations. even a primary school has a grade 6 graduation you could do

[@LeoSeasoning]

This guy: take as many photos and videos as possible Me, living in Berlin: Feck...

[@vivienne218]

yes pls! interested of topic for older dj!!

[@ClubReadyDJSchool]

I did that video check out my channel!

[@NexuJin]

Its refreshing to have someone said the unwritten rules outloud about supporting the event and the community. It's also the difference between backstage access or not 😂 (as non dj)

[@JMacc213]

Seriously... Who’s the 1 person who down voted this vid?... Dude is dropping some good info.

[@nigel4b]

As a bloke just turned 50 last year (and in the mid life crisis 😉) I would love to see a video for the older DJ. Too afraid as a young man to try. Although I have no "rhythm" I make up for it with enthusiasm and want to try. Great content thanks 👍🤙

[@DDadsge01]

That ending made my day! :D

[@ClubReadyDJSchool]

Haha I thought some may welcome some randomness ;)

[@aleksandrkolosov2551]

Such a lovely stuffy, had same, too :)

[@ClubReadyDJSchool]

The best!

[@realgun666]

Just turned 49, love me some drum and bass. Got back into it during lockdown and love it. I'll take any advice you got mate.

[@ClubReadyDJSchool]

Free stuff is good, best advice is right here: www.clubreadydjschool.com/club-ready-dj-course/ :) :)

[@ToniRawGazer]

As a older dj I would love to hear some advise

[@jeremysweda9044]

I would definitely like to see that older dj video

[@buzzbi7408]

I really want to see a older DJ video 🔥🔥

[@tgholness]

100% you should do a video for older DJs. I'm a beginning bedroom DJ, and turning 44 years old. I don't know what will come out of this, but I would love to hear your feedback

[@ClubReadyDJSchool]

On it!

[@breakoutgaffe4027]

@@ClubReadyDJSchool +1 😎

[@pat7373]

I am old, too😎

[@guyhetman2975]

I have done little research lately and when been out at parties at venues I have always approached DJs and asked who they work for and in Sydney it’s mostly promoters ie entertainment companies that have the venue as there client. Thought I would share as I Havnt come across a venue that seeks the Dj direct.

[@JStarNewYrk]

Pandemic DJ. Started at age 41 (ddj 400, now ddj 800). Just had my 1st club gig 2 nights ago (CDJ 2000 Nexus) to about 15 people from my friend's wedding party. Useful tips would be useful.

[@alvinsellors1232]

Another great video andrew. Where was the other dog? Nice to see you in normal clothes this time on the sofa 👍😂😂

[@ClubReadyDJSchool]

Haha the other dog Sadie - was inside with her Mum (my partner), Mickey (the blag dog) follows me more :) Pappas girl!!

[@sachs8809]

Extra points for the bit right at the end of the video 👍

[@ClubReadyDJSchool]

Hahaha i thought I'd leave that, real life stuff!!

[@danielbernal6523]

Can you pleaaaase make a video on how to officially use trimmers!

[@ramilv739]

I'm old, please advise

[@veorflex]

Hey, thanks for the video! I've never played a live show before, but I think I've been able to develop the skill to do so. How can I best reach out to promoters to find opportunities?

[@hotzemusic]

Rule #1 is the biggest lesson I learned. If you're doing the club gigs, you can't just go in like a festival with a planned set of all your underground bangers if you're on a 2 hour warm up set.

[@craigparry282]

Another great informative video Andrew. Just one thing about adapting and maybe changing your pre planned set to a bit more commercial stuff. Where do you as a dj stand with regard to the club and the event that will have been promoted? You could have a good response on the dancefloor by changing some of the music but what if the club aren't happy that you took a diversion. As a dj it's our job to read the crowd and dancefloor but how do a promoter or club management see things - will they be fine as long as the dancefloor is full or will they be wanting you to stick to the promoted event as much as possible?

[@kimchi_b]

I think there are a lot of variables in there and you may be overthinking it (but don't listen to me, just some thoughts, I haven't DJed since the 90s!). You ask some great questions. One thought I have is that if you're a house or techno DJ it's very possible to raise the roof even if you mainly play stuff that the crowd haven't heard before simply due to your groove and building the set to give energy and unexpected twists and turns at the right time. Drop in a few classics in unusual ways and that's one approach to making a great set imo. Cheers!

[@ClubReadyDJSchool]

It's a tough one, too many variables to consider to be able to answer this properly, sorry, you'd have to feel out on the night. However, in saying that I remember once responding to the crowd and taken an event perhaps a little too commercial before and had the crowd going nuts, but wasn't asked back,

[@nikakebuladze]

What do you think should i create artist page? I was thinking I would do it when i would get my first gig, it sounded more right and honest

[@davidedwards3838]

Advice to older DJ's. Just get after it. Dont worry about your age. Law of averages will kick in. Put yourself out there and eventually someone is going to say yes. When you do get a in person gig or a live stream put it all out there leave nothing left to give. Play from your heart and have fun.

[@Chris-pp6eh]

mayby a vidio how to create a nice atmosfire in a club or party

[@DJ-Dorian]

🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼

[@chaseshadows566]

I'm interested in a video directed for older djs.

[@jtm71]

I'm very old. Please advise

[@kingsfan2099]

Video for old timers are neeeded....lol...

[@ivanalvarezz]

How do I get shows if I’m 15?? Here it’s 18+. Also I produce music , maybe having a little platform with music could help?

[@ClubReadyDJSchool]

I'll give this some thought

[@spears1179]

When i listen too DJ mixes on soundcloud how come i never hear bass changes? it all sounds like one track, do they master the mix? i feel there's a difference between a DJ set and a DJ Mix.

[@kimchi_b]

Great question, I'd love to know too!

[@ClubReadyDJSchool]

Hard to say...

[@dj-peterofficial2753]

In my opinion there's 3 kind of mixes you can aim to make, or 4, if you count the showoff-mixes that usually turntablist and cotrollerist make to show their routines. But for the rest of us there's 1. A practised set that you don't upload anywhere until every transition is as intended, maybe even mastered to get the best sound possible. 2. A mix where you play like you would in a club. One take, and the faults that may occur stays to show that it is a ''live'' recording. 3. A mix completely made in a studio, where you edit every track to fit perfect and of course mastering the mix to perfection is a must. These mixes are usually made for radio shows, or to be put on CD's, like Hed kandi. Has nothing to do with a DJ performance. 1 and 2 can also be done with 2 intentions. Either like you would play in a club, with shorter mixes to keep the energy up, really making use of break downs and build ups to mix songs in and out fast, or you make it for listening, and care about longer layered transitions in key where you let every song play out, more or less. I prefer to keep to nr 2 and and do my recording in one take. I prefer real live mixing and in real life there's no starting over. If someone listening to my mixes book me for a gig, they can expect that I will sound same. I also switch between ''club like'' mixes and mixes for listening. On my channel there's both live mixes and house mixes made for listening, if anyone want examples, but I won't spam links here. It's easy enough to find.

[@spears1179]

@@dj-peterofficial2753 I was recently listening to Enrico sangiuliano essential mix for BBC 1 that’s why I asked the question, every transition sounded seamless. What software do you think he used?

[@dj-peterofficial2753]

@@spears1179 Listened to that particular set and also checked an earlier set to see what he prefer to play on and the way he plays. It's quite simple, as he plays techno, not very bass line driven, but instead uses heavy kicks, and that's why you can't hear the shift in the bass line. He's a good technical DJ, but mostly uses the 4 band EQ on the Allen & Heath mixer to make the seamless transitions. Not with the use of effects. Of course he has sorted every track by KEY and probably also by common elements within each track. There's no software involved when playing like this, except for when preparing the music in Pioneer Rekordbox, before exporting the music to a USB device. He probably prepared each track with several cue points and hot cues, and possible with automatic loop sections where he can just wait for the outgoing track to enter the loop before introducing the next track. He also might have a third deck playing beats and percussions, so that the same rhythmic elements span over several tracks. It's a common way within Techno and minimalistic tech to tie tracks together in that way, and makes it very difficult to hear when one track ends and the next track take over. Some DJ's, and listeners love this approach, others prefer more obvious change in the tracks to move the energy more obvious up and down during the set. When you keep to many elements in the same KEY and with very similar tracks, a set can lean towards the boring side, and certainly playing for no live audience it's a big risk. With a live audience you will automatically change the tracks to optimize the respons you get from the crowd. An experienced DJ knows this and can to some degree simulate that in a show without a live audience. As many Techno DJ's he uses something called power mixing. That is when you drop the bass for like 2 bars or more, and then return to full bass. This creates a power lift within a track, and also creates a perfect way to switch one kick/bass line for another one. Done with the same or matching KEY, it's hard to hear the shift from one track to the next. Especially if melodic elements from the new track is already in the mix, and the outgoing track is in a loop without any melodic elements. I hope I didn't get too technical and that some of what you could hear in Enrico's set got explained.

[@dantebouwmeister6936]

Btw is it smart to use remixed commercial music ? Or not ?

[@ClubReadyDJSchool]

Yes but sometimes people actually respond to the original - you have to pick your audience :)

[@krismessner7352]

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