When I go out, I get tired of hearing bad DJs. I am not just saying that because I am a DJ. Typically, when I go out I try not to comment or continue until the person I am with says something first. That usually validates that I am not being a DJ snob. Let me give you an example.
Remember that time when you were in the middle of the club on a packed dancefloor jammin’? Then all of a sudden, the DJ switches to a song that is a different beat and tempo than the previous song? More likely than not, you think about the effort to navigate back to the bar, shrug your shoulders and continue dancing. One song, no problem. By the time the DJ does this three or four times, it starts to feel like an emotional roller coaster. Before you know it, your dancing vibe has just been killed. This is just one example. I don’t blame DJs for being bad; I blame the people and clubs who employ them!
Please don’t get me wrong. I am not a perfect DJ. I can tell you for a fact that early on in my DJ career, I lost costumers I will never get back for poor transitions, not knowing what to play which ultimately led to me inadvertently clearing the dance floor as if someone pulled the fire alarm. The important part is that I have learned and grown from my mistakes to become a much stronger DJ now. It is far easier for me to explain how you as the consumer can select a better DJ than it is for me to teach a DJ how to perform better. The power is in your hands!
There are probably tradeoffs. Maybe the venue does not want to pay for a DJ with more talent, so they are willing to sacrifice a smooth transition from song to song for a DJ who at least has a robust catalog of music and knows what to play.
It is a matter of simple economics. Why should a lousy DJ do better if they can get paid for mediocre performance consistently? There is entirely no motivation for a DJ to improve by learning new tricks or acquiring new music if they can cash a regular check. The worst part; they may not even know that they are bad at their craft because no one has shared with them what he or she can improve on.
Remember, you are paying for a service, and you have the right to ask as many questions as you want until you feel comfortable. If the DJ does not like your questions that probably tells you all you need to know. Here are some things you may want to consider before hiring a DJ for your next event:
- What type of DJ is he or she? All DJs are not wedding DJs, and some don’t want to be.
- Make sure they have a catalog of music you want to hear.
- If applicable, do they have edited radio versions of songs?
- Have an understanding of their experience with your type of event.
- Ask for a mix they have done recently or if there is a live performance in the area you can attend, or both (even better!).
- Have an understanding of the equipment they need to bring for the event.
- How will they dress for your event?
It is okay to say “no” to a bad DJ. You will only force them to get better. Who knows, you may end up employing them again later. What do you think? Please leave a comment.