|
| quote: | Originally posted by DjWoody
Connections is about 80% of it, but not always. Personally I don't think passing out demos works, but it helps out to get the word out that you're there.
There's several other ways to get gigs. Another major way is to throw your own events. This will help out a lot. Many DJs have done this, including Judge Jules and my self.
A third way of doing it is by meeting promoters. Become friends with them, talk to them. Promoters usually book the DJs, not the owners.
Fourth way, get on the radio, magazine, website. All those things get you exposure. That's the main thing, get exposure. I used to work for a nightlife magazine for free just to get hook ups. And trust me, I GOT MY HOOKUPS!!!
Don't expect to make money right away, you'll do gigs for free just to get your name out there. That's called paying your dues.
And lastly, don't get a big ego, and don't be a shit talker. I know several DJs who are awesome mixers, but because they got big egos, or are shit talkers, promoters don't want to deal with them.
Many promoters will give you one shot, don't fuck it up!!!! |
1. Meet as many people as you can. From the clubbers themselves and up the behind-the-scenes ladder (promoters/owners/etc). Knowing people at every level will help you out in the long run. Always remember the people that have helped you out in the past because you will never want to cross them.
2. It is important to hand out demos to possible patrons. This way you get exposure and build up a little fan base before you actually start playing out. Record something that represents your style...something that you are proud of. This demo will be representing you. If you must give a demo to an owner/promoter...make sure you get straight to the point with the demo. I handed out many demos to promoters/owners in my city. It was 40 minutes long with 12 tracks. Short but straight to the point. These guys have businesses to run and they don't have much time to listen to cd's.
3. Throwing your own events is an important aspect of getting gigs. You can book yourself! Haha. This gives you further exposure and gives you more credibility. It is a fast way to build up your network. This will open many doors for you. I gave my demo to a club owner and he let me host my own nights there 2x a month because he loved the type of sound I played. I have many other dj's, promoters, and club owners contacting me now because of all the exposure I have gotten from hosting and DJ'ing my own events.
4. Radio exposure is very helpful. I did my radio show for over 2 years. Broadcasting with almost 100 mile radius in every direction and a live webcast. I booked many local dj's and others from out of the area to spin on my show. I made many contacts this way. Doing this builds up your credibility and makes you look more professional.
5. As Woody stated previously...you must pay your dues. Don't expect to be getting paid right away. Wherever you end up playing at, help them promote their events heavily. Remember, these are actual businesses. You need to bring them clients. The type of music or the talent of the DJ is not the priority. The priority is to drive as many people as possible to the venue and sell alcohol. Thats pretty much what it all comes down to.
___________________
FACEBOOK | TWITTER
|
