Being a DJ is probably one of the most thrilling jobs out there and much like other professions, it's extremely competitive and hard to break in to. However, unlike many other professions, getting well-paying gigs doesn't rely on your well-formatted and lengthy resume (unless of course, that's DJ experience you have listed). Getting gigs—and ones that pay well—relies on true talent, an understanding of the medium, and professional DJ equipment that can really showcase your skills.
Here are a few more tips to help you evolve from the day-dreaming bedroom DJ, into the money-making professional DJ.
1) When deciding on what genre of music you'd like to spin, you should determine whether or not there is a market for that genre. As much as you love bluegrass, and know the periods and artists extensively, you may have a hard time getting booked if that's all you're interested in playing. In short, the more high-paying gigs require you pull a commercial element into your set. Promoters are interested in hiring someone who's going to bring bodies (with full wallets) in the clubs. If you're music isn't really known for a large club-going fan base, then you may want to rethink what you're playing.
2) Furthermore, you need to really have your skill set down packed. You should be practicing mixing and beat matching religiously. Once you're confident in your skills, you should then record your stuff and start making mix compilations to pass around. Beat matching and mixing skills are a must if you want to succeed. Some of the most skilled, professional audio mixers can take an virtually unknown, let's say…bluegrass song and beat match it with some recognizable radio hit, and in turn they end up producing a new totally original, unique, and yes, club worthy track. When you finally have the reigns over the technical aspects of working with a professional audio mixer, you can really experiment with your style and pinpoint that one thing that makes you stand out from the rest. By being able to distinguish yourself creatively from other run of the mill DJs, you can really make an impression on promoters.
3) The third characteristic of a professional DJ vs. a bedroom DJ is the polished nature of a professional. A pro definitely uses professional DJ equipment. Sure, while practicing in your room, the lower end products are perfect, but when you're ready to make the transition into the club environment, you're going to need the high-end equipment to really show off your skills. In addition to your equipment, the way you carry yourself and act around important people plays a large role in how they will treat you. If you handle yourself like a professional who has done this a million times, and is always prepared, then the important people will treat you like a professional. Make business cards, have booking forms on hand, and keep a log for all of your bookings.
All in all, being a professional audio mixer is an extremely unique road to go down, and it can be done successfully with the right combination of skill, equipment, heart, and professionalism.
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