How To Become A Better DJ (6 Month Anniversary Episode) - Ep #26

Explicit content warning

06/24/24 • 50 min

Ever wondered how to truly captivate a crowd with your DJ skills? Celebrate our six-month anniversary with us as we pop open a special bottle of sparkling wine, gifted by our wonderful client Francesca Di Lorenzo, and share our journey of growth and reflection. We'll discuss the importance of consistent practice and setting clear objectives, especially when it comes to refining your mixing, scratching, or crafting routines. You'll hear our insights on the often-overlooked art of reading a crowd and why real-world experience is essential to mastering this crucial skill.
Struggling with beat matching or phrase mixing? This episode is packed with practical advice on fundamental DJ skills and how to elevate your performance. From tackling the trickiest hip-hop tracks to choosing the right beginner tools like the Hercules Impulse series, we've got you covered. We'll also weigh in on the age-old debate between Serato and Rekordbox, and share our thoughts on advanced gear like the Pioneer XZ and Opus Quad. Plus, get ready for some laughs as we recount the classic DJ blunders we've all experienced, like forgetting to turn off the high-pass filter!
Professionalism in the DJ world goes beyond just technical skills. We'll address the serious issue of substance dependency among DJs, advocating for healthier alternatives like therapy. Discover the importance of nurturing connections within the DJ community, supporting fellow artists, and the unwritten rules that keep creativity and originality alive. As we toast to our progress, we'll also touch on handling mistakes during live sets to enhance authenticity and share exciting plans for future content, including a special episode on Canada Day. Cheers to continued learning and growth!

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Previous Episode

Taking Requests - Are People More Entitled Noadays Post Covid? - Ep #25

Ever faced an aggressive guest demanding their song be played on the spot? Discover how to handle these high-pressure moments with grace in our latest episode of Clever DJ with Ilya and Nino. We'll share our experiences of navigating song requests in the post-COVID era, where crowd dynamics have shifted dramatically. From dodging physical threats to tactfully declining unsuitable suggestions, we provide you with practical insights and strategies to maintain control while keeping the crowd on their feet. Learn the art of never outright refusing a request unless it clashes with the event's theme and how to use diplomacy to handle even the most insistent patrons.
Join us as we recount memorable gigs where song requests have both saved and sabotaged the night. We'll explore how elevated DJ booths can be a game-changer, the different approaches needed for various music genres, and personal anecdotes about the impact of generous tips on our setlists. Whether you're spinning tracks at weddings, proms, or clubs, we offer phrases and techniques to help you manage requests professionally. Tune in for a deep dive into the joys and challenges of DJing in today's unpredictable world, and learn how to master the art of crowd dynamics while preserving your artistic integrity.

Next Episode

Canadian vs American Weddings (Canada Day Special) - Ep #27

Do you know what truly sets Canadian weddings apart from American ones? Spoiler: it’s not just the maple syrup! Join us, Ilya and Nino, as we celebrate Canada Day with a deep dive into the fascinating world of wedding DJing across North America. With Jacques the Duck by our side, we explore the striking contrasts in wedding durations, from Canada’s elaborate 12-hour celebrations to the more concise four-to-six-hour American weddings. We also share insights into unique cultural traditions like Ontario’s “Stag and Doe” events and discuss the varying costs and logistical challenges DJs face in different regions.
Ever wondered why Canadian weddings can stretch into the wee hours while American weddings wrap up right after dinner? Tune in as we recount personal stories and reveal the behind-the-scenes dynamics between DJs, caterers, and service staff dealing with extended timelines and tightly scheduled meals. We also touch on dance floor preferences, the financial landscape for DJs, and how these experiences have shaped our understanding of what makes a wedding truly successful. Get ready for a lively, informative episode packed with anecdotes and expert observations on the diverse wedding traditions across the continent!