So, you want to start a career as a professional DJ? Great! DJing can be an incredibly fun and rewarding job. However, like any business, it takes hard work and dedication to be successful. In this article, we’ll walk through the key steps to starting your own DJ business.
Choose a DJ Name
Your DJ name is your brand, so pick something memorable that reflects your style. Avoid anything too similar to existing DJs. You want your name to be distinctive. Consider your real name or a creative stage name. Just make sure it's easy to spell and pronounce!
Get Equipment
Every DJ needs certain basic equipment to perform. This includes CDJs, turntables, mixers, headphones, speakers and more. You don’t need top-of-the-line gear when starting out, but ensure your equipment is professional grade. Invest in the essentials first, then upgrade over time as your business grows. Shop used gear to save money initially if needed.
Build Your Music Library
Successful DJs have access to a vast music library to suit any genre, venue, or crowd. Expand your collection by purchasing digital downloads, vinyl records, CDs, and subscribing to record pools. Organise your music files neatly into genres, BPMs, eras, moods, etc. Knowing your music library inside out is key for seamless DJ transitions.
Promote Yourself
Get your name out there! Create social media pages showing your skills, mixes, and events. Design promotional materials like business cards, flyers, and stickers. Reach out to event promoters offering your DJ services. Attend gigs to network and collaborate with local DJs. Generating buzz is crucial when first starting out.
Practice Your Sets
DJing live takes practice to perfect. Rehearse transitions, beatmatching, and reading the crowd in DJ studios or your home setup. Record practice mixes to review and improve. Familiarise yourself with equipment and software through repetition. Consider advanced DJ courses to sharpen your technical skills.
Find Gigs
Approach local bars, clubs, and event venues about potential DJ bookings. Start small at house parties, weddings or as an opening act. Offer to work weeknights to get experience. Build up a portfolio of successful gigs to better market yourself. Opening a DJ agency can help secure more bookings. Gain a local fanbase who will come see you perform.
Set Your Rates
Pricing will depend on your level of experience, equipment needs, venue and more. Typically, DJs charge by the hour or per gig. Don't undervalue yourself but remain competitive. You may offer discounts on weeknights or for newer clients. Be open to negotiation but know your baseline rate.
Get Legal
Take care of business formalities like licences, taxes, insurance, and contracts. Register your DJ name as a business. Have clients sign agreements outlining your fee, equipment requirements, damages policy, and other terms. Purchase liability insurance in case of injury. Report your DJ income and deduct expenses appropriately at tax time.
Grow Your Business
Once established, focus on growing your DJ brand. Hire assistants to help with advertising and lugging gear. Expand into producing original mixes and selling merchandise. Get featured on podcasts or radio shows. Promote yourself across regions or even countries. The possibilities are endless for scaling up success.
Starting a DJ business takes significant work, but it can be extremely rewarding. Follow these key steps, stick to perfecting your craft, and your new career path will start taking shape in no time. With passion and perseverance, you can turn your love of music into a full-time profession.
