How to Hire a DJ for a Rave

The rave is a staple of the underground American culture. Usually held in a remote location, massive in size and legendary for starting late at night and ending in the wee hours of the morning, the most important thing about a rave is it's music! Here are a few tips on how to hire a DJ for your rave!

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Plan the details for your rave. Before you can think about hiring a DJ you must know where and when you are having your event. Secure those first. Also make sure you have permits (if needed), and a contract for the location inclusive of the parameters of the event. (Like when it starts and how many can attend.) Also security is usually needed. Raves can get pretty crazy and while you want them to be fun, you also want them to be safe!
2. Check out the DJ. This is easier to do if you live in a major city as club and event promoters often fly in the best DJs to spin on a rotation. Within a couple of weeks you can listen to half a dozen DJs live. If you can't get to a major city, try listening or watching their events online. Many are captured via streaming video these days.
3. Contact the DJ. Now that you've listened to a few, narrow down your choices and contact them. (Most have info on their websites.) See if you vibe with them. Things that should be discussed are availability, cost, accommodations (many top Rave DJ's require first class accommodations) and any equipment you'll need to provide. Make sure you get a contract.
4. Hire the DJ. Review the contract, make sure the terms are acceptable, sign the contract and mail the deposit.
5. Follow-up with the DJ. A couple of days before the event, contact the DJ and make sure everything is still set to go. Review the terms of the contract and any last minute needs that may have arisen. Better to find this out a couple days before than on the actual night of the rave!
6. Relax and enjoy. You've done your hard work, now go to the rave and have a great time!

Tips & Warnings

• Raves are notorious for ecstasy use. Ecstasy is an illegal narcotic in the United States. Your guests and the DJ can be charged with drug possession if the event is busted by the police for noise or other complaints. Vetting the DJ's drug use and telling him it's unacceptable is probably a good idea. And make sure it's in the contract.

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