Archive for December, 2010
Become a Radio DJ – Learn 4 Ways to Get Your Chance As a Radio DJ
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If you want to become a radio DJ, there will to be somethings you will need to know about. It is not as simple as waking up one morning and deciding you are going to be a radio disc jockey. However, I will not leave you in the dark. I will explain a few things that you need to know to start you down the right path.
First off, you can not expect to get hire as a full time radio DJ right off the bat. There are a couple of things you need to do.
Start with College Radio:
You can start out at the local college or university radio station, this of course is on a volunteer basis. However, these spots are usually taken up by the local college kids, most likely from the communications department, or maybe even the performing arts department.
If you have a good enough pitch, you might be able to make a deal, and still anchor yourself a spot, usually a few hours a night, or week, depending on if there are any openings.
Do your own Live Broadcasting over the net:
This is as simple as having a good selection of music, and an idea to talk about while the next songs are coming up.
These have become quite popular over the years, with various types of software available out there for it, both from your desktop, and web based.
You will need your own server, or hosting platform to get this off the ground. And of course, this will be a none paying gig. Unless you can get some advertising or sponsors to pay you some money for you to advertise for them over the net. I wouldn't try this at the start, wait until you get a good solid following to make it work their while
Start at the bottom of a local major radio station:
This one is not all that appealing I know, but we all have to start at the bottom. And if you can get a position at the station that actually involves the radio part, and not pushing papers in some cubicle somewhere, all the better.
You might even want to start as an intern, and be the station "gopher" while you learn the ropes. This is a great way of starting out, and I've seen it happen.
Go to College or University for a degree:
Now, this does not instantly guarantee you a position at a radio station to be a DJ, but it does give you the ins and outs of the business, and even some air time at the campus station, maybe even a foot in the door at a small local station down the road.
If you are really serious, and you want to become a radio DJ, then you need to do the foot work, do the time, and learn the business anyway you can. It is very rare that a green horn will get the mic right away. Just keep trying, and never give up, and you never know, you might be the host of your own show someday. Now wouldn't that be something?
Wedding DJ Insurance, an Important Commodity
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Disc jockey equipment is expensive. Although it is a rare occurrence for something to be damaged at receptions and other events, it is still possible. An uninsured disc jockey not only leaves him or her vulnerable, but it also leaves you vulnerable. Built into most disc jockey contracts is an agreement that holds the buyer responsible for damages. This means, by law, you are required to pay for the replacement or repair of the disc jockey's equipment in the event that you or one of your guests accidentally damages any of his equipment.
DJ insurance is often quite expensive for disc jockeys, but it is well worth the expense. If the disc jockey is insured, the only additional cost that clients may be responsible for in the event that DJ equipment is damaged or destroyed during your wedding is the deductible on the insurance plan. This means that instead of being responsible for up to $20,000 or more worth of damages, you are only responsible for a deductible fee that is usually a very small fraction of the total equipment value.
In addition to this, DJs without insurance could result in you dishing out thousands in legal fees. Because the liability is built into the contract, you are responsible for the disc jockey's equipment for the entirety of your wedding. This is a heavy burden to hold on your shoulders that could redirect your attention from the fun of the party to the unfortunate book-keeping portion of the event. If something does happen at the event, you'll be forced to either pay up the DJs estimated demands, or take the situation to court and fight through the process. If you lose your case, you'll not only need to pay the settlement, but you'll also owe a large sum of legal fees.
Before hiring a DJ, be sure to check if he is insured. Proof of insurance should be easy for him to display. Typically, insurance companies provide a proof of insurance card or statement that displays the initiation and expiration date of the insurance policy. If the DJ shows you expired documentation, be sure to make the disc jockey aware of this and ask for up to date proof of insurance. It's not always possible for customers to request proof of insurance from the actual insurance company, so you'll need to confirm all these details with the disc jockey. Once you are certain of his insurance, be sure to ask him to review over the details of the contract and help you understand what the extent of your liability is. Knowing if you are responsible for the deductible and how much it costs is all very important. In addition, be sure that it is clear in the contract that you as a customer are covered in the event of equipment damage. The last thing you want after your wedding is a law suit. The contract could make or break your future plans after your wedding, so make sure you're covered before you sign it and hire the disc jockey.
Tips on How to Hire a DJ
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When you are doing party planning and need to hire a DJ, there are several things that you need to keep in mind. With the right disc jockey, the party or wedding can be a great hit. With the wrong one or one that is inappropriate, that is all that guests will remember later.
By following a few guidelines or rules, you will be certain to get a professional. They need to have references. They should be open to providing you with a list of clients who you can contact about their services. If they are leery of providing these, there may be an underlying reason why they're reluctant. The references should be recent clients and represent a variety of different venues and party styles. Something more than written testimonials is necessary. Anybody can make up false written claims.
You should be able to see the DJ in action before the party. They should be willing to do an audition for you or provide you with video footage of previous performances. Larger DJ companies will often have presentations where they highlight their different talent and give you a chance to directly talk with them.
When you hire a DJ, you should also make sure that they have professional grade equipment. It needs to be reliable and provide the proper sound for the size of the venue that you have. It is also important that they have backup options. If something happens to the equipment on the day of the event, what will the DJ do to ensure that they still provide the services?
Since it is going to be your event, you need to be in control of the music and not be surprised by any songs. Many DJs will give you access to song banks where you can select the styles and the particular songs that you want to choose. It is your event, so if the DJ is reluctant to give you control over the music, look elsewhere.
During the event, the DJ has a lot of different responsibilities in addition to simply providing the music. He should be able to read the crowd and realize when they need to be energized or when they aren't reacting well to a particular song or type of music. He should be encouraging but never condescending or annoying. It takes a special person to be able to work the crowd well.
Finally, they should be able to provide you with a written contract of their services. This should outline exactly what is expected and will give you peace of mind.
When you hire a DJ, take your time in deciding. Get references and make sure that you are completely comfortable with them. These few things will ensure a successful event.
DJ Drama Mixtapes
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Known around the world as DJ Drama, Tyree Cinque Simmons has worked his way up the hip hop ladder to become the "King of mixtapes". Born in Philadelphia the father and businessman came into the music industry a hustler. Promoting the widely practiced method of copying music in chosen orders, DJ drama created mixtapes of his favorite songs. His unique choices of songs brought his mixtapes to the attention of local club patrons which led to requests for personal mixtapes. By catering to specific audiences he has boosted the careers of many of today's new artists. Many artists realize that adding their songs to DJ Drama mixtapes they will get heard and their popularity among the fans will increase.
As a promoter he has worked for Puff Daddy, Allen Iverson and Jermaine Dupree. He was on the Jay Z and friends tour as well as the Nelly sweat/ suit tour. Nominated for several awards he has been working hard in the music business for two decades. He has also made appearances in the movie ATL and rapper T- Pain's musical Freaknik. Chosen by Vibe magazine as the mixtape series of the year for 2005 with trap or die and automatic relaxation, DJ Drama is currently active in thirty one markets.
As his newest mixtapes are gaining in popularity among younger crowds so are the artists choosing to make them a part of their overall record sales. After being dropped by Arista records rapper TI formed Grand Hustle Entertainment and made DJ Drama the lead disc jockey for the entire company. Using his creativity in promotion he helped TI to continue his music career when others would have forced him out of the music business altogether. Several other joint ventures, such as co- founding Aphilliates music group with Don Common and Dj Sense has led to Drama to be one of the most hard working promoters in show business today.
With singles like " the mad DJ" and 'Feds taking Pictures" fans get a little taste of the world Drama comes from. He has also been known to mentor young people in general giving advice about success and using his own story as the model for this mentoring. Among the newest mixtapes of DJ Drama the Gangsta Grillz series has left quite an impression on the public. DJ Drama is a man of the people and he works for the people keeping our culture moving. DJ Drama mixtapes are the best of the best.
DJ Flight Cases
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When you DJ you will understand how important it is to keep all of your equipment safe and secure at all times. DJ flight cases ensure that your equipment is in the best possible place for transport and when in use. The equipment you are using is expensive and some times can not be easily replaced which is why purchasing the right DJ cases is essential. You want to transport your equipment easily and safely as that is your livelyhood and without that you cannot work.
When working as a professional DJ you will need to move your equipment from venue to venue often and this has to be done with care. The best way to transport your items is with DJ flight cases as these are specially designed for the job. When you place your equipment in one of these DJ cases you are protecting it from knocks and bangs and prolonging its life. There is a different flight case for every individual piece of equipment ensuring that they are protected in the best possible way.
These type of flight cases are simply heavy duty boxes which are lightweight to carry but are the exact size to carry individual pieces of equipment. DJ flight cases are designed to not only have a tough exterior but also a custom made foam interior. This foam will allow your equipment to rest against it in transit and remain fully protected. DJ cases although look very similar to other flight cases they are purpose built for DJ equipment.
If you store your equipment in proper DJ cases then you will ensure that it will last longer, none of your equipment is cheap and this means it is expensive to replace. Rather than worrying about it in transit if you protect it well then it will survive the journey and be ready for you to simply set up and begin work. Although there are many different types of DJ cases available to purchase you have to consider what you will need the DJ flight cases for. If you are using them for work purposes and need to ensure that your equipment is stored and transported in the best possible way then spending more is an idea.
You can have them custom designed to have your logo or name on the outside and often this is an idea if sharing the DJ box with other DJ's. It will make your cases easier to identify amoungst everyone elses. If you go for cheaper options they are often thinner and you may find that if they get knocked then this will damage your equipment. This style of DJ flight cases are more suited to people wanting to store their equipment at home. If you are on a budget then you should try to buy an expensive DJ cases for your most expensive item and cheaper ones for other things.
Upgrading them as soon as you can. You will find several different designs and styles in good music stores or online, if you know exactly what you are looking for then finding DJ cases online can be an ideal way to save money.
How to Choose the Perfect Mobile DJ Equipment
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If you have ever thought about starting a mobile DJ business, you may have hit the "equipment roadblock" along the way. Don't worry! I can help.
Lots of people think about starting a DJ business and get frustrated thumbing through equipment catalogs and descriptions. The prices can be extremely high, and there are always the little extra bits and pieces you need to fill out your gear. Cables, microphones, lights, extension cords, etc. It's a bit overwhelming.
Stop. For just a moment, think about the basic, bare bones necessities that a DJ needs to have. A sound source (CD player or iPod), speakers, and music. That's it.
Sure, there are lots of little things to fill in the gaps, but that's basically it. Decide on a sound source first. Will you be running CDs or MP3 files? If you want to start simple, just use your laptop and Apple iTunes to get started. If you want to go a little further, look at a dual CD deck. Any music store with a pro audio section will have several to choose from.
Next, your speakers need to be "pro" quality. Don't settle for home audio speakers or anything like that. Get a decent set of professional speakers with at least 12" drivers. These will run about $300 or more for a pair. Plus, you need to have power to the speakers. Active speakers will be self-powered, but they cost more. Passive speakers will cost less, but require an additional power amplifier to work. An appropriate power amp for your speakers may cost $250 or more.
To connect the sound source and the speakers, you may need a mixer. This depends, so don't rush out and buy one just yet. If you purchased a dual CD deck, it may have the proper outputs to connect directly to a power amp. If not, you will want to run from the deck into a DJ mixer. If you decided to use a laptop or mp3 player, you will most likely need a DJ mixer. The mixer can cost $60 or more for a decent starter piece.
Finding good deals? That's easy. Ebay is your friend. Look for reputable brand names on eBay. There are lots of cheap imitation brands that will let you down, so don't settle for the cheapest gear you find. Craigslist can also help you out. To get the most out of your investment, try purchasing only the basic necessities at first. Then when you begin to make more profits, re-invest the money to buy more gear and upgrade your old stuff. That's a powerful way to grow your equipment to truly professional level.
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Dell DJ
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Dell DJ is a fairly new term in the DJ world used to classify the evolving breed of technology enhanced jocks that are flocking to the industry.
The tools of a Dell DJ could be, but are by no means limited to:
MP3 players
Dell Laptop computers
Computer fused turntable scratching interface
Outbaord controllers to operate computer software
Remixed and extended mixes made from software based systems
That only scratches the surface of what makes up a Dell DJ. The term could just have easily have been HP (Hewlett Packard) DJ, but somehow that doesn't sound as smooth as Dell DJ. Dell, of course, being the computer company. The name Dell implies that the Dell DJ is progressing forward with technology such as computers.
You owe it to yourself to see what can be accomplished with a Dell computer and some of the DJ gear that it can run. Many outside companies have reconfigured the Dell computers so that they operate more efficiently with DJ software. The result is like a Dell computer on steroids. Go to some of these websites and see for yourself. You'll be amazed.
To truly move ahead in today's competitive DJ industry, one must embrace the new technology and utilize it. But, that does not negate where the DJ's roots lie. Many of the new Dell DJs are failing to use anything but the new technology, and that is a terrible mistake.
Jocks from the seventies are creating new trends and styles by combining their vinly record playing skills with the Dell DJ concept. The results are things that were never thought possible. Old songs are taking on whole new lives.
The Dell DJ has arrived.
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Disc Jockey Career Essentials Facts and Requirements
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If you have chosen to become a disc jockey it is essential to know the requirements to become a successful DJ. Before giving any public performance you have to undergo preliminary training. It is helpful to have a degree in the related field to become a professional DJ such as a degree in mass communication, journalism etc. The first and the most important requirement are to have an ability to please the people by your voice. People hire professional DJ's to enhance the entertainment of their event. So to make an event memorable it is very important for you to show best of your skills. This you can only do if you have some tips and training before giving a public performance.
To become a DJ it is important for you to be familiar with the basics. You should be very familiar with the use of all the equipment and its presentation on the stage. You should have an ability to make an eye to eye connection with the guests so that they feel that you are DJing for them. You should be aware about the latest songs to be played according to the event. It is the DJ that makes the people to sing and dance to best of their tunes. To make your audience thrill on music you should be well aware about the sound mixing. It is the basic requirement for any DJ to be successful.
Besides all the above mentioned requirements it is also very essential that you should speak well in front of your guests. A well established communication with your customers will help you to build up your confidence as well as to perform to your best. It is not necessary that you go to any school or college to become a professional DJ, but it is helpful. You can become a trainee at a radio station where you can learn the basic requirement to become a successful DJ as well.
Your performance should be such that it attracts maximum crowd and you can achieve it by taking proper training, watching other DJs perform, and by performing yourself with a small audience.
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The Cheese Factor – Cheesy Wedding Disc Jockeys
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The cheesy wedding Disc Jockey.
I've heard the stories from wedding vendors and I have spoken to hundreds of people who have attended weddings as a guest, but until the YouTube sensation I did not fully realize how many cheesy wedding Disc jockey's there really are out there. I don't ever get a chance to be a guest at a wedding myself simply because I'm always working them, but today because of YouTube and other on-line resources you can find an endless amount of what used to be private wedding receptions videos. I constantly study the wedding industry, and keep up with the latest trends. One trend I have noticed in the past year is that more & more brides are choosing a band over a DJ for their wedding. If a band is out of the budget, brides & grooms will provide their own music using an I pod or computer. When I ask why? The number one answer is... "I don't want some cheesy DJ at my wedding." For the most part I don't blame them. I would rather have a band or use an I pod at my own reception than have some cheesy DJ embarrassing me on my wedding day. What do you mean by cheesy?
When I talk about a cheesy DJ, it's just that, the DJ himself, not so much the music the DJ plays. Sure there are numerous songs you may consider cheesy. YMCA, Chicken Dance etc.. Keep in mind there are also Brides & Grooms that like cheesy music. After all it is their wedding and I don't think you would want to deny them of the music they want for their reception. I will play whatever type of music the Bride & Groom wants, and if it's cheesy music so be it. But does that make me a cheesy DJ? If a DJ plays the same common cheesy reception songs for every wedding, you could label that DJ "cheesy", but in all reality, that is someone who really isn't professional and someone who does not know music, know how to read a crowd, and had never learned music programming & formatting. When I speak of a cheesy DJ I mean the DJ's mannerisms, personality, and the way they present themselves on the microphone in front of guests.
The Cheese Factor Why are so many cheesy wedding DJ's?
There are a few factors why wedding DJ's are cheesy. Going by what I have seen in over 20 years in the business, DJ's would rather spend money on new gear and lighting than on education and training. Most DJ's do not have the time or take the time to get proper training & education they need. (I'm talking real education & training, you know the kind you have to pay for and not just copying what other DJ's do). The biggest problem is DJ's do not take the time necessary to get to know the couple that they are representing on their wedding day. A DJ should know much more than the couples name, favorite songs and the date of the wedding. How can a DJ represent a Bride & Groom on the mic without getting to really know them first? i.e. their style, hobbies, interests, how they met, etc.. Nearly 80% of all mobile DJ's have full-time day jobs. They don't have the time to get proper education, properly plan, and prepare for the weddings they perform at on the weekends. Therefore the average wedding DJ will perform the same cheesy schtik and play the same cheesy music for every wedding. These DJ's may seem to appear very normal in meetings. But when they pull that microphone up to their face at a reception in front of a hundred plus guests (strangers) for the first time, the DJ turns into DJ Super Cheese with the Weekly Top 40 Countdown radio voice. Even worse, possibly wearing some silly costume. In some scenarios the Best Man would make a better MC than the DJ simply because the Best Man knows the couple well. Most importantly people tend to forget that DJ/MC entertainment is a talent based business, where most should just stick to what they know best and not attempt to be the weekend wedding warrior.
How do you find a DJ won't bring the cheese factor to your wedding?
You need to find a real professional Disc Jockey / Master of Ceremonies. This can be somewhat difficult but they are out there.
1. Ask for referrals from other experienced knowledgeable wedding professionals, coordinators, photographers, videographers, the vendors who work directly with DJ's.
2. Ask for proof from a potential DJ. Video of a wedding performance, mainly MC performance of the introductions, toast, 1st dance, cake cut. Be aware of repetitive phrases like "At this time" or screaming on the mic. Look for appearance how their dressed and how their sound system looks. Ask for credentials of paid education & training as a Master of Ceremonies and other DJ education.
3. Ask a DJ if this is their full-time career or just a weekend hobby.
4. Ask for the names, dates, locations, and emails of the last 10 weddings they performed for, not just a select few from a potential DJ. Bands can play live music well and bring a lot of energy, but a fantastic professional DJ / MC can add personalization, direction, custom craft your wedding to your style and add so much more to a reception than just music.
By all means, leave the cheese for the crackers.
New Year Party Disc Jockey and DJ Services
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New Year parties in Toronto are full of hope for better things. It is at this time that people want to have parties to celebrate yet another New Year. Unfortunately, some parties like the ideal entertainment that grasps the spirit of the New Year. Prior to settling on a Disc Jockey that will be responsible for the provision of quality entertainment, things to expect from the New Year DJs include constant attention to one's needs
The DJ's should arrive some hours before the commencement of the party in order to have enough time for equipment set-up. The DJs should also test the equipment in advance and replace any that might not be working properly in order to avoid disappointments during the party. Toronto DJ's should also dress properly to match the occasion. Unlike a wedding where, they could be required to wear tuxedos, a New Year's party is more casual and the DJs can be allowed leeway to dress in appropriate casuals.
A New Year party host in Toronto should expect the DJ to treat family members and the guests with a friendly, delightful manner. Guests do not want to be entertained by a sulky DJ. He/she should be able to discern the different types of music and which genres fit the guests invited well. A clear understanding of the different phases of music is also desirable. Additionally, the DJ should be organized and with a firm control of the entertainment aspects of the party at all times.
The DJ should be energetic enough to help shape the party spirit. He or she can achieve this by choosing the right type of music and adjusting the music volume to the right level in the entire party area. The party host in Toronto should expect that the DJ should be careful enough to avoid playing repugnant songs, or doing distasteful things that may offend the guests. Additionally, the DJ should be able to work with other people in attendants. This includes the photographers, and even the organizers and the party program director. When choosing the DJ, a planner should remember that most guests notice the various entertainment aspects than any other aspect of the party. If the entertainment is dull, then the entire party spirit dies off and the guests could end up leaving the party prematurely. The planner's expectations should therefore act as a guide when picking the DJ.
The planner should expect to see passion and drive in the DJ, after all, it his/her profession of choice. The party organizer should ensure that the chosen DJ understands the entertainment needs of the invited guests and the host of the party. Thus, he or she should ensure that a positive mood is maintained throughout the party. However, the DJ should also exhibit a deep understanding that his or her tastes and choices in music do not really count at this moment. At such, he or she must be able to execute the demands of the guests without any reservations. Toronto planners should also expect the DJs to consult with them on the various aspects of the planned entertainment. It is the planner that informs them of the invited guests and their likes and dislikes.
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