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The promoter in me says:
An hour set is just enough to put on a cd. Any less and one starts to question your ability to mix more than handfull of songs. Mostly though, it's about the journey. What booking promoter is really trying to do is hear your sound. Often enough, the promoter may not know you personally and aside from the occassional conversation online or on the phone, they don't know how you perform. This is where a solid demo is essential.
Think of it as "your resume" for a job. If you send a resume that only shows you've only worked at one job for a few months and nothing else, you are likely not to get that job. A demo mix is no different. A thirty minute mix isn't enough time to let a promoter understand how you transition through a mix. It's more of a "teaser".
The dj in me says:
Stay true to your sound and don't put anything on the mix that you can't back up. Sure club promoters want you to be versatile, which is why longer mixes are definitely the way to go. But don't give a promoter a mix with just house music if the only tracks you have are on that mix. I don't know how many times I've got a demo from a dj who mixed psytrance only to find out that they don't have enough music to support a full set. One time I booked a guy and he dropped progressive house at the show. I was not happy. Even if you play multiple styles (as you should if your club ready), be specific with the club promoter on what your going to play.
On the outside:
Remember this mix is like your resume. So put a little effort in it. It's one thing to pass a short mix burned on a CD-R with your name scribbled on it to your friends. But keep in mind promoters get alot of cd's from alot of dj's. If you're passing out a standard mix (at least 60 minutes) to party people, keep a "nice copy" for the promoter. Spend a few extra cents and get a jewel case. Print out a decent label with some cool cover art. This is what makes a cd stand out.
Label your cd:
It seems that this is the most difficult thing for dj's to remember. Often enough, I get a plain cd with some name on it. Nothing else nothing more. I could do the extra leg work and search the internet or my contacts for whatever name the Sharpie pen hiroglyphics say. But why bother when I have five other cd's sitting on my desk that have that info?
The message here is to put your name on the cd clearly. Include a contact number/email/website where I can get hold of you. Again, think of the demo as your resume. Would you give a resume to a potential employer without your phone number on it? Of course you wouldn't.
Regarding .mp3 demos/submissions:
Digital media has allowed us to put alot more information in less space and move it quickly. They're also a great way to get your music to people without having to do the "face-time". This is a great tool esepecially when searching for bookings outside your own area. When you make an .mp3 mix for download, ensure that you go to the properties and "tag" your mix. Many digital players don't read the file name (ie: DJ N00b - My First Demo). Rather they read the id3v tag that .mp3's contain. Here, you can put vital information. It's easy to do (Right-Click/Properties/Summary/Advanced) and you can add your email address in the comments section. This allows me to be able to contact you and stays with the file itself. Meaning, if I get a recommendation from somebody (as I often do) and download the mix. I also have the info I need to make contact.
Now I've rambled on enough... If you need any more help feel free to ask...
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