TIPS & TRICKS
Not all DJs are created equal, and there are considerations above and beyond which version of the Macarena is gonna get dropped. Here are a few tips to help you hone in on the perfect DJ for your event.
For the love of all things holy, ask to listen to their demo
Most professional DJs, from Bat Mitzva beat-droppers to Goatee McSunglassesAtNight have a demo mix that showcases their skills. Listening to a DJ s demo is like checking out an artist s portfolio: it s one of the few ways you can get a real sense of what you re about to get yourself into. So if you do no other due diligence, do this. Unless you ve personally seen the DJ perform, no demo should be a dealbreaker.
There is such a thing as a DJ CV
Professional DJs often specialize, not only within a specific music genre but often within a specific type of venue or event. Some of them just do product launch parties. Some of them only lay down rock tracks at quiet little bars. A DJ CV should include a brief bio and a bit of history, so you ll get a clear idea of specialization, personality and past experience.
Ask for references
A DJ can have the chops and the right sound, but that hardly matters if they turn out to be a total flake with a coke habit. Call some past employers to lay those concerns to rest.
Ask to see a sample set list
What you re looking for here is appropriateness. A good DJ is intuitive about the perfect way to set a mood they re fluid and imaginative. A bad DJ will try to shoehorn your event attendees into his space. If the songs that they suggest don t seem to match the environment you want to achieve, you may need to ask the DJ to re-calibrate their understanding of your event s goals.
Ask what kind of equipment they expect you to have
Some DJs will rock up with just a computer loaded up with some mix software. Others will have a 20-channel mixer that needs to be incorporated into your existing sound system. Make sure their standard rigging will work with your set-up, and that you have the table-space available to accommodate their gear.
Image Sources: DJ by Montecruz Foto, Featured Image by Aurora Mixer
