Many DJs choose electronic dance music.If you want to become an electronic dance music DJ, you'll need equipment such as a laptop, DJ software, and speakers.You can play around with the DJ software.When you're ready to start playing for an audience, ask local venues around town if they'd like you to DJ and then come up with ways to get the crowd excited.
Step 1: You can easily transport a laptop if you find one.
If you already own a nice laptop, you can use it to run DJ software.If you can bring the laptop with you to venues, you should use it.If your laptop has a good battery life, it is a plus.Depending on the software, you should try to have a little bit of RAM.
Step 2: DJ software can be used to get started.
The DJ software is used to create mixes and experiment as a DJ.Pick out a program that suits your needs, such as Apple Logic Pro, Ableton Live, or Image Line's FL Studio.The software can get expensive, so do some research and choose the one that is most comfortable for you.If you have a specific laptop, choose a software that works with it.A digital audio workstation is a term used for this.
Step 3: Purchase a pair of headphones.
The headphones should be sturdy and comfortable to wear.You don't need to spend a lot of money on headphones, they can be found at electronic stores or online.You will be able to hear a song through headphones and decide when to start playing it through the speakers with the help of these.
Step 4: You can create a library of music by selecting EDM mp3 files.
Thousands of options for mp3 files can be found on a number of websites geared towards DJs and electronic dance music.It is advisable to listen to the songs before purchasing them to make sure they are of good quality.To create a collection of music based on your favorite songs of the genre, try to find artists that you love.There are websites with good music options.Some websites will give you free samples.
Step 5: Pick out speakers that can amplify your music.
If you are just starting to DJ, don't invest a ton of money into the speakers.If you have a simple set of 2 speakers around the house that can plug in to your computer, you should be able to complete your speaker needs.Make sure you have cords for the speakers.Purchase DJ monitor speakers if you can afford them.
Step 6: The software can be used to experiment with songs.
If you want to learn everything your DJ software can do, you should just play around with it and try different tools.If you learn better through reading and watching online videos of others using the software, you can purchase a book on the topic.If you watch a video on how to begin using Logic Pro, you can try out the methods on your own.
Step 7: Transition between songs.
To create a smooth transition, it is important to pay attention to the pace of the song so that you can match it.Pick a song with a similar rhythm to start playing next so you can easily fade them in and out.You can learn how to do this with your DJ software, but play around with different songs to listen for which ones flow nicely together.You will be able to transition from one song to another smoothly if you learn to beat match.
Step 8: It's a good way to use EQ.
Equalizing helps boost or reduce certain tones in music so that you get the sound you want.If there are elements in the track that you would like to change, such as exaggerating sounds, cutting out sounds you don't like, or altering a sound, listen to it and decide.Small changes, such as boosting the sound 3dB, should be made when you first start using an equalizer.
Step 9: Help you get booked by creating an entire set.
Pay close attention to the venue and audience you're playing for when creating your set of music.Pick out tracks you think the audience will enjoy, and plan out your set according to the type of energy you want to create.You could start with songs that have medium energy, work your way up to high-intensity songs and then come back down.Depending on the event and venue, your set may be an hour to several hours long.
Step 10: You can learn from DJs that inspire you.
Go see a DJ perform live if you want to watch them in action.Listen carefully to the songs they choose, how they switch smoothly between songs, or the way they get the crowd to maintain their excitement throughout the show.You can also watch videos of DJs on the internet, such as showing them at a live show or giving tips for DJing.
Step 11: There are online resources for help.
It's a great place to find out how to use DJ software, pick great songs for the crowd, or put together unique mixes.You can follow along with the videos using your own software and music.There are lots of online resources that can help you find the answer to your problem.
Step 12: Choose a unique DJ name to brand yourself.
DJ names give you an opportunity to craft your DJ identity from the ground up, selecting a name that exemplifies your music.You can use your own name, nickname, or come up with a completely new name that you think is cool.Pick a name that is easy to remember.Avicii, Skrillex, and Afrojack all chose unique names.Make sure the name you choose is easy to pronounce, and do a quick online search to make sure it isn't already taken.
Step 13: Make yourself stand out.
Some DJs have special lighting or fun props while others don't.The crowd knows which DJ is performing when they see these things.Pick your own prop or activity to engage the crowd.You could give everyone in the crowd glow sticks or have bubble machines make bubbles the entire time.There is a jacket that represents you as a DJ.
Step 14: You can market yourself on social media.
To spread the word that you are going to have a show, invite people to your events on Facebook.If you want to get people excited about your DJing or show, you can post pictures on social media.It will be easier to get in touch with fans if you have a strong social media presence.You can use Soundcloud to post mixes for others to listen to.
Step 15: You can reach out to venues around town to see if they will allow you to play.
Email, call, or visit local nightclubs in your area to see if they are interested in having you perform your tracks.You can reach out to your friends to see if they want a DJ at their next party, or you can see when local carnivals or festivals will be happening.When booking venues or events, make sure you specify that you'll be playing electronic dance music.It is a good idea to make a CD of your setlists to give to the nightclub or festival organizers.If you don't have a lot of experience, you should play your first few shows for free.
Step 16: Get to know people at shows and venues.
The people who put on the shows, as well as the people that attend them, will have great connections and ideas for how you can find other DJ opportunities.You never know when a connection might be useful, so talk to the people you meet at shows to get to know them.If you are not performing yet, it is still a good idea to attend a concert to see if anyone knows where to find good music or how to use the software.Ask them if they have ever DJed before, or if their favorite artists are, when they first started getting into electronic dance music.