How to Be a Hip-Hop DJ for a Nightclub
Being a hip-hop DJ for a nightclub can be extremely fun, but also challenging work if you're not prepared to bring it to the crowd. Learning to DJ requires specific knowledge of different types of music, and specializing in hip-hop requires an especially dedicated respect for this style of "in-your-face" tunes. You have to master the basics of mixing music to different beats per minute, as well as gauging exactly what the crowd wants to hear.
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Instructions
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Develop your DJ-ing skills on both the turntables and with DJ mixing software. Mastering your desired profession as a DJ takes dedication to the craft. Many DJs consider what they do a fine art, so you can't expect to be as successful as they are after just a few days of practice. Consider tutoring under a seasoned hip-hop DJ you respect.
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Invest in sound DJ equipment if you expect to get work. Professional equipment is available on a sliding scale according to the name brand and reputation and price. Prepare to spend a reasonable amount of money to begin your business as a professional hip-hop DJ.
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Determine your availability. If you know your schedule before you begin working, it will allow you to filter out the jobs you cannot devote time to. You can opt to work full-time or part-time as a DJ. It's really about what your schedule permits.
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Develop your people skills. Being a popular hip-hop DJ is more about being able to finesse the crowd and work with their moods, not just playing catchy music. If you can't calm the club down as the night winds down or work them up when things get slow, then you run the risk of having a poor reputation.
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Practice your skills in your spare time. Whether you volunteer for another DJ and become his apprentice, or simply practice at home in front of your friends or other aspiring DJs, it's important to get practice to improve your skills and gain feedback.
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Market yourself and your services aggressively. You need to build a following if possible -- with fans, business owners and other DJs. Develop an online social media presence on a site such as MySpace, Facebook or Twitter. Additionally, offer competitive rates as a new DJ to get your foot in the door at other establishments. You can charge more as you gain credibility.
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Document all of your jobs in writing using written contracts that are signed and dated. You can lose a lot of money by failing to document your business. This also helps you to prepare your financial statements for tax purposes. Track all of your earnings through a financial accounting software.
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Arrive on time for all of your jobs. Build relationships with your customers for repeat business on a regular basis.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit dj wave 16 image by Nathalie P from Fotolia.com
