Steps to Launching a DJ Career in India

Music is of various genres, which obviously all of us know but do we really ponder about how each genre is associated with a different emotion? Well, it can be associated with the way we feel things. In this blog, we are going to dwell into electronic music and the DJ spectrum. With music festivals and the party culture thriving in most metropolitan cities in the country, the demand for proficient and skilled DJs are growing with it. If you find yourself to be someone who has the flair and passion for mixing music, trying new music combinations, fascinated by raves and are full of energy – then you never know, you might turn out to be a great DJ. Keep reading further to know more about how you can become a DJ and establish a career within the spectrum.

Step 1: Learning the Fundamentals and Mastering the Basics

The first step in mastering a craft, irrespective of the field of work, is acquiring a formal education and learning all the fundamentals. There are several courses and certifications available both offline and online that help you gain the required skills to become a DJ. You can also learn by watching tutorials, YouTube videos and other instruction guides that help you practice mixing techniques and how to use softwares. While you practice, you will slowly realize the genre of music you want to go for and that inturn gives you the scope to create your own techniques, which we will further discuss in this blog. It will also be beneficial if you keep an eye out for workshops and masterclasses.

Step 2: Knowing Your Music Choices

As a beginner, you may find yourself mostly practicing using presets or trying to recreate existing pieces. This is a major part of learning something new and is imperative. Once you have taken your time to learn these released or previously produced masterpieces, slowly try finding what works best for you and what best defines your style. Having or following a niche can help people relate you with your style or music. Specialize in genres based on what music you relate to and the kind of audience you may want to target.

Step 3: Learning Tools and Softwares

To become a proficient DJ, you may want to learn a few important and sophisticated softwares, learn how to use mixers, vinyl records, turntables, you must also have headphones and a controller. If you can, invest in good equipment or go for monetary aids that can help you get minimal equipment to practice on. Read up online, take a look at resources and do your research to understand what equipment to buy based on the budget you have in mind. Try and familiarize yourself with popular DJing softwares such as: Virtual DJ, Serato, Traktor, Rekordbox and much more.

Step 4: Build a Unique Music Library/Collection

Curating an extensive music library with songs of various genres and from different eras can take you a long way in your career in Djing. Source your music from subscription services that also give DJs the access for downloading exclusive tracks and remixes. DJ City and Beatport are some popularly used subscription services. You can also build playlists based on artists and genres.

Once you have sourced your music, it is important to make sure that they are organized. Gathering and organizing your music based on genre, beat per minute and even energy levels can prove to be helpful while mixing tracks and energizing your performance. Make sure you look out for legal and safe platforms to source music to support artists.

Step 5: Networking and Collaborating

Working on your communication skills to network and collaborate, in the music industry, can work miracles. Attend music andDJ meetups, conferences within the music industry and other events where you can associate and communicate with fellow music enthusiasts and DJs. These can be opportunities where, you never know, you might even get your very first DJ gig. Make sure you maintain an active presence on social media, initiate conversations with managers you get to meet at events, practice with live sets, reach out to small clubs and local clubs that may let you perform your set and slowly with time, you get to see yourself growing and building your dream career.

Step 6: Crafting Your Own Style

Previously, just a little above, we talked about practicing existing styles and recreating already released or produced music. While that helps you get in the groove and practice techniques, with time you begin to realize that you are ready to try something on your own. Your unique and idiosyncratic style sets you apart in the DJ industry. Once you have mastered and learnt various softwares and techniques, you will be able to try mixing a few pieces of music, playing around with the equipment and experimenting with tracks. Ideally, it is always best to come with something that resonates with your music preferences and personality.

Step 7: Being Open To Learning More

Irrespective of the profession you are in, the idea is (and a beneficial one) is to know and tell yourself that there is always more to learn and more to explore. Being open to learning more can always help you in your professional life and also with personal development. After a formal education, you have the option to pursue certifications and other online courses with newer insights. You can also attend internships, workshops and conferences that give you crash courses and the guidance to learn new concepts. This is where networking and collaboration comes into play. As you interact with more people, it also gives you the access to knowing newer trends and keeping yourself updated.

Conclusion

Doesn’t the world of DJing sound fascinating and equally exciting? If you think you have got what it takes to be a DJ then all aboard the express train, you are in for a wonderful musical journey. With the right guidance, learning to use softwares and tools, practicing ,experimenting new mixes, collaborating and interacting with people; you will get to become a DJ in no time. Keep an eye out for this space for more insights and information. To know more about AAFT  programs in DJing.

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