How To Get DJ Gigs - A Step By Step Guide
Learn How To DJ
You don’t need to be the most technically skilled in the world. Even some of the biggest artists playing some of largest stages in the world stick to basic transitions and DJ techniques.
Before you try and get DJ gigs:
Master the basics of DJing.
Be confident on the decks mixing tracks together.
You don’t need a tonne of knowledge on music theory but try to understand beats, bars and phrases.
Take note of how tracks sound when mixing them together.
Use this time to also build a music collection - check out different record pools and online stores.
2. Build Your Brand
Having an online presence is a must these days. However believe it or not, you don’t need a huge following in order to get booked as a DJ. Rather see online platforms as a way to showcase your sound and build your portfolio.
Pick 1 or a maximum of 2 platforms to focus on. Burnout is REAL!
You don’t need expensive equipment- your camera phone is perfect for social media.
Try to film content directly onto your phone rather than via social media platforms- that way you can reuse it.
Alongside video content, create some mixes and post these on a platform like Mixcloud so you can share these with venues/ promoters/ managers when asked.
Make sure your mixes matches the music the venues you want to work in are playing.
3. Research
Now it’s time to do your research and plan who you need to speak to in the industry. This could be multiple people and your list will grow over time.
Think about the venues you want to work in. Make a list.
Make sure they play the music you want to play. For example if you are a techno DJ, you aren’t likely going to get a favourable response from a venue which largely plays Hip Hop.
Try and find out who the manager or promoter is. Bear in mind it may be a different promoter (if the venue uses them) each night the venue operates.
Try and find out who the current DJs are.
Research some DJ agencies online as some venues will use these however NEVER pay to play.
4. Reach Out & Network
So you have your target list, now it's time to get in touch! Just remember these things....
When emailing, be polite and professional. Introduce yourself and ask questions around how they go about booking DJs for gigs.
Do not try and undercut existing DJs or talk unfavourably about a venues current DJs.
Timing is key- if you go in person, DO NOT start trying to network with the manager or a promoter when the venue is just about to open or during peak trading times. They are likely to be stressed/ busy and will likely forget who you are.
If you want to network with a DJ, don’t approach them mid set...rather wait until the end of the night, keep it brief and explain that you are looking at getting some DJ gigs and ask if you can connect on social media.
If you are networking in person, stay SOBER!
5. Follow Up
So you didn't hear back? Don’t worry you probably won’t the first few times you reach out. Remember this will be a marathon and not a sprint.
Send an email and politely follow up but don’t be rude or aggressive.
Don’t overdo it, following up is fine but constant emails comes across as desperate and you are likely going to annoy the person you are trying to get in touch with.
Keep knocking on doors- if you don’t get a reply the second time, thats fine, continue your research and reaching out to different people. Be resilient and don’t take it personally.
Continue to build your online portfolio.
Continue to network with other DJs. They may know of gigs and opportunities.