arriving early when you play out

[groovinkim]

i generally assumed that it's important to arrive as early as possible when you're playing out so that you can hear what's been
going on musically and know where to take the sound next. (i.e., not playing the same records as the dj before you... or even just a more abstract concept of direction)

yet it seems like at most events, djs don't arrive until right before their set starts... or, if they do arrive, they hang out somewhere else where they can't hear the music (*coughviplounge*) and only meander in a minute or two before they're on.

for people who play out.. do you think it matters if you get there early?
if you used to show up early and you no longer do, why'd you change your mind? i suppose it could get annoying to have a bunch of people coming up and questioning you when you're trying to prepare mentally..

[djowns]

I'm almost always early, I like to help out and make myself as useful as possible :) I enjoy that kinda thing though.

[bright]

Promoters don't promote flow anymore, they promote "This DJ has this or that style". So why should a DJ bother to care what came before his/her set? Usually, it won't flow anyways because everyone is playing distinct styles because that is how the promoters are billing DJ's, and a lot of DJ's have grown up with this kind of mentality now, too.

Most dancers don't care, either. Most people nowadays go for the spectacle of having SEEN this DJ or that DJ and to experience the overload of 5-rooms, not really to hear the music and dance for 8 hours straight in one room with one vibe.

So, I think the question of DJ's showing up to get a feel for the flow and vibe is related to how parties os produced and what the audience expects nowadays.

- Paul

[186k\sec]

.. do you think it matters if you get there early?
if you used to show up early and you no longer do, why'd you change your mind? i suppose it could get annoying to have a bunch of people coming up and questioning you when you're trying to prepare mentally..
good questions,
~ ive wondered the same thing about how djs can run in and immediatley throw'n it down.... ive concluded those people must either dont give it any consideration, or dont have to worry because they have solid confidence in what they are bringing will be widely accepted as 'the s h ! t', and nobody else has heard it (yet) - (which sometimes proves to be false) , or its so rare, only a few people own it., and only a few people have ever heard it... , from what ive observed & heard..this seems to be exactly what happens and is to be expected from the pro's..

[Sophistik]

Originally posted by groovinkim
i generally assumed that it's important to arrive as early as possible when you're playing out so that you can hear what's been
going on musically and know where to take the sound next. (i.e., not playing the same records as the dj before you... or even just a more abstract concept of direction)

yet it seems like at most events, djs don't arrive until right before their set starts... or, if they do arrive, they hang out somewhere else where they can't hear the music (*coughviplounge*) and only meander in a minute or two before they're on.

for people who play out.. do you think it matters if you get there early?
if you used to show up early and you no longer do, why'd you change your mind? i suppose it could get annoying to have a bunch of people coming up and questioning you when you're trying to prepare mentally..

Definatly, but i'm very guilty of all of those sometimes. hehe. It depends on my mood I guess. Sometimes I'm there to party as well as play so in that case i'm all up in it. Then sometimes I don't even show up untill moments before I play, say hi to a few people and then I leave right after. It just depends I guess, but I always try to arrive at least 1 hour early, I like to soak up some atmosphere and case the croud a little before I begin.

I usually like a little bit of vibe, unless I feel the crowd is totally sleeping on the last dj's music, usually (not in all cases) continue that flow or at least start from that so as not to freak everyone out such as slamming in funky electro or jump dark nuskool right after the last guy was playing progressive house or soemthing. I might trail off from that with that with something of similar energy/vibe. I think the best thing to do is go with what you think feels right. If you feel an abrupt shift of energy's is appropriate go for it.

[RNA]

Unless you are double booked or some engagement keeps you from getting there early, then show up early. If you are too impotant to spend a few minutes early finding the vibe so you can then build on it, then maybe you are just to cool to be playing that party.

At the very least, you can add your body to the dance floor before your set, and give the DJ that has to open up for you a bit of respect. How does it feel when that dj that opens up for you pulls their last record, packs up, and walks out?

My theory: common respect requires that you arrive at least 1/2 hour before, and wait to depart at least 1/2 hour after, your set.

.02

[DJSPIDER]

ok, if you're about to DJ after someone. Play a record that you think would sound ill over plus progressing the flow at the same time and BAMMMM...usually impresses people taht know what's going on. then bring a crazy ass track after your own mix then progress the whole set. then BAAAAMMMMMMMMMM

[Dank Rag]

Of course there are times where a DJ may be pressed for time and have to arrive or leave exactly on time, but that is obviously the exception. Here we are talking about the habits of DJs, wht they do on a regular basis.

I always try to show at least a set or two before I go on. For me it is a very important part of my set, I need to get a feel for the direction of the event, the mood of the people there, and try to anticipate what the party needs and how I can take the party to another level during my performance. Sometimes you need to drop the bomb at the beginning of your set to make up for a really lame DJ that has just finished with killing off the dancefloor, sometimes you need to flow out of the DJ before you to take control of the reigns, if you don't show up early and know what is going on, you will most likely not make an optimal entrance to the decks.

I don't have a predetermined set when I go out, and I usually don't even have a style in mind before the party. When picking out records to take to an event I'll try to envision what I may need when I am at the party, pack a bunch of records that may fill that need, and I pack even more to give me a lot of flexibility within my set. Arriving early can help me to mentally sort my records into abstract categories before I even open up my crate.

If a DJ is playing at a party that they don't care to show up before their set to check out the party and hang, and if they don't want to stay afterwards, then why are they even playing the event? Maybe someone else that will give more to the event should be playing.

Paul- I'm sorry you are seeing a lot of events where promoters don't promote for flow, I know I have seen my share of those events. What you should note is that there are still a lot of production crews out there that spend an extensive amount of time and energy into getting the perfect flow planned into their events. Look around for crews that may have a reputation for being kind of "hippy-ish" or crews that have a CONSIDERABLE history for underground events. (5+ years I would consider considerable for the party scene in the NW)

[Won D'funk]

I think getting to a show early is very important when you play out. You gotta look at being a Dj as your job. When you start playing out, and you r getting paid, i think it is important to be ready to play your set when it's your time. Personally, I like to be wherever I am gonna play at early, so I could read the crowd a little bit and see what music would make the people dance and up.

[dj jakub]

i like to get to show a little bit before my set, honestly my ears go to crap if i'm there all night, even chilling behind the main speakers. Its a lot easier to match beats when you have a fresh set of ears. And i agree, with what was said before, promoters don't think about flow much anymore. Everyone is so focused on having 2 or 3 or 4 rooms, people forgot what it was like, how the night progressed in one room, and how it got harder until the end when the sun would come up and someone would chill it out.

[Jizosh]

this is a great topic, and unfortunately i find myself in agreement with what bright said. i only know a handful of event promoters that give honest consideration to the flow of a room. when i play out (as rare as it is these days) i think showing up early is important. if i can't for whatever reason, i like to get in touch with the djs who play before and after me to find out what type of tunes they plan on playing, or at least what direction they might take their set. if they have no idea, i can usually make a snap decision based on the last few records that the dj before me plays, what my timeslot is, and what i know of the dj playing after me (if any), and just go from there.

[Pipedream]

gonna go in agreement with my associates on this one about the current
state of promoters: Most promoters no longer understand the sense of
flow... I think that in the earlier days of the rave movement, promoters
were MUCH more connected with the sound and electronic music. A lot
of promoters now a days are more akin to the typical dancer or typical
eletronic music listener. Sure, they like electronic. Maybe even a lot.
But the understanding of what is a good mix, what is good progression,
seems to have been lost by most promoters.

The exception to this would be the various underground promoters who
still exist in various places- but an interesting thing to look at when you
are looking at these groups.. (Inertia Labs, OSC, Joyscouts, SeelieCourt)
is that a good portion of the staff is actually made up of DJ's and music
producers.

I've always felt its important to get to the party at least an hour before
your set... I have always done my best to abide by this rule... The few
exceptions are when the directions are too shitty, or when my my ex
girlfriend spills pop all over me before the show.

I think its really funny when a DJ plays the same song as a the DJ she
just followed- it does show a bit of disrespect to the music goers I
think.

Of course, also your time slot can dictate a lot about when you show
up or leave.

[corbettfields]

Originally posted by Pipedream
gonna go in agreement with my associates on this one about the current
state of promoters: Most promoters no longer understand the sense of
flow... I think that in the earlier days of the rave movement, promoters
were MUCH more connected with the sound and electronic music. A lot
of promoters now a days are more akin to the typical dancer or typical
eletronic music listener. Sure, they like electronic. Maybe even a lot.
But the understanding of what is a good mix, what is good progression,
seems to have been lost by most promoters.

The exception to this would be the various underground promoters who
still exist in various places- but an interesting thing to look at when you
are looking at these groups.. (Inertia Labs, OSC, Joyscouts, SeelieCourt)
is that a good portion of the staff is actually made up of DJ's and music
producers.

I've always felt its important to get to the party at least an hour before
your set... I have always done my best to abide by this rule... The few
exceptions are when the directions are too shitty, or when my my ex
girlfriend spills pop all over me before the show.

I think its really funny when a DJ plays the same song as a the DJ she
just followed- it does show a bit of disrespect to the music goers I
think.

Of course, also your time slot can dictate a lot about when you show
up or leave.

of course you couldnt even find the last party!

ha ha ha!

[DRUM MACHINE]

Originally posted by corbettfields


of course you couldnt even find the last party!

ha ha ha!

I think you should have been there eric....... wait until the 9th, we'll make sure you get there...

Oh, and now a days promoters never line the DJ's up to coordinate the music. They just throw DJ's on the lineup with out knowing excatly what he or she plans on playing so 90% of the time the sound is quite different..........

[Tronic]

Great topic!

I don't have too much to add that hasn't already been said.

I do miss the days when warehouse parties were only 1 room of music and there was a definite flow from DJ to DJ.

It created a beautiful vibe because everyone was on the same page musically.

On a similar note, it drives me crazy when promoters book 17 DJs to 45 minute timeslots. There is no flow when that happens because each DJ has only a few tracks to drop so they each try and drop their current top tunes. It is a disservice to people who come to parties for a flow and to hear a DJ build a nice set with a good progression.

This is happening more and more, and it is a bad example for people who are interested in DJing to see. I think a lot of newbie DJs do not understand the concept of progression in a set because it is becoming harder to find at shows.

my .015

- tronic

[djsteel]

Generally, I show up not too long before my set. Usually there is other stuff going on...Not necessarily other Gigs, But other stuff.

The Best sets that I play are ones that I just walk into the room, and the party is still really fresh to me. (15-20 minutes before)When I see the people and my thoughts are still fresh...when I walk right up and put the headphones on, and my heart is still fresh, and my fingers are fresh...That is when the best mixes kick in, and I feel the most confident and most creative about what I am doing.

Usually, when I arrive real early, I listen to the other DJ's, and end up sliding into their 'groove'...before I know it, Im changing stuff around in my head to 'match' what that DJ is spinning. When I get behind the tables, my style is very apathetic and does not stick out from other people's sets at all. I am in other people's grooves, and it seems to drag on...

But usually I stick around afterwards and hang out and check out the scene.

[Mothra]

MOTHRA SHOW UP RATE, PRAY RECORDS, EAT CROWD FOR DESERT!

SKREE...FRAP FRAP FRAP.......

[dj plantlife]

If you are a local DJ just coming up, you should always be there early. This shows the promoters that you aren't too big for your britches, and they might call you back and/or recommend you.

If you are a fairly well known local, and are trying to make it on a national level, you might want to establish a fan base. It helps to get there early, unless, of course you just came from another gig.

If you are a national DJ, trying to go international, you should try to show up early, so you don't get shown up by the local talent.

If you are an international DJ, you should get there early to see if the sound is good enough.

Exceptions are as follows:

Your car broke down
You just got off of work at the local McDonald's
Your mom made you clean your room before leaving the house
Family emergency
You are coming from another gig
You are visiting with friends (this applies ONLY to out of town DJs who are leaving the next morning)

[Jizosh]

Originally posted by dj plantlife
Exceptions are as follows:

Your car broke down
You just got off of work at the local McDonald's
Your mom made you clean your room before leaving the house
Family emergency
You are coming from another gig
You are visiting with friends (this applies ONLY to out of town DJs who are leaving the next morning)

or you are opening =)

[bright]

Originally posted by dj plantlife
If you are a local DJ just coming up, you should always be there early. This shows the promoters that you aren't too big for your britches, and they might call you back and/or recommend you.

Yeah, playing a good set has nothing to do with it. :)


If you are a fairly well known local, and are trying to make it on a national level, you might want to establish a fan base. It helps to get there early, unless, of course you just came from another gig.

Yeah, playing a good set has nothing to do with it. :)


If you are a national DJ, trying to go international, you should try to show up early, so you don't get shown up by the local talent.


Yeah, but if you have a passport, you are already a step ahead. Although, maybe some of those locals have been playing in Vancouver BC and not telling you. Those sneaky bastards!


If you are an international DJ, you should get there early to see if the sound is good enough.


It is also good to show up early to practice the dance moves you will be performing while your lackey does the actual mixing. Also, you want to make sure you don't use the same dance moves as any of the locals or the national DJ's without international passports. That may prevent you from getting another contract for DJ mix CD mixed by a computer program with your face on the cover.

All in all, very good advice, dj plantlife. Now please share the bling with the rest of us that you accumulated on your road to international noteriety. ;) Alas, if only I showed up early in order to counteract the popular notion that I have a bulge in my britches.

- Paul

[dj plantlife]

Originally posted by bright

Yeah, playing a good set has nothing to do with it. :)


Okay, brain for brains...that's pretty much implicit.

Furthermore, your effort to be funny has been completely nullified by your utter lack of not being able to read between the lines and/or pick up on sarcasm.

(And seeing how the bulge is in the back, that could be another exception, because you had to change your panties.) ;)

[Tasty]

Back to the subject at hand.....

Not to regurgitate the statements of my peers earlier posts.

I think it's important to show up early before one's set. I've found it highly beneficial to see/feel/listen to the sound and energy of the event.

First of all, it shows respect to the dj spinning before me. Because, I'm showing interest in what he has to share w/ all of us. Also, because it means I'm paying attention to what he is bringing to the dancefloor. It would be a sign of disrespect to just show up right before one's set, and mix in a track he/ she had just played out 1 or 2 mixes before.....

Second, I think it shows to the promoter that we have an interest in assisting the evolution of the event energy, and the progression of the night. More importantly, it shows respect to the dancers, and to all those that love our culture, and community. I love it when I am able to go out onto the dance floor and just vibe, and feel the energy of those around me.

Granted there are extenuating circumstances (multiple sets on one night, traffic, what-have-you) that would prevent one from arriving early. Some dj's are able to just excude energy right from the get go and put on the most amazing set. (ie Donald Glaude, and diverse others)

On a side tangent but related to some of the thoughts here - I've found that being able to read a crowd while spinning is a lost art. Not many dj's are really good at that anymore. I mean it IS important to put on a good show/ set, but isn't it more important for the community as a whole to have a good time? I don't find dancers sitting/ standing or wallflower-ing very fun.

With Respect.

[bright]

Originally posted by dj plantlife


Okay, brain for brains...that's pretty much implicit.

Furthermore, your effort to be funny has been completely nullified by your utter lack of not being able to read between the lines and/or pick up on sarcasm.

(And seeing how the bulge is in the back, that could be another exception, because you had to change your panties.) ;)

I thought I was playing along.

- Paul

[djsteel]

just out of complete curiousity, what is your 'motivation' for "giving respect to the DJ before you"...

I may sound heartless, but I am being honest when I say I don't understand. Im not there to work for that DJ...How I respond to that DJ really has nothing to do with my job or why Im even there.

I can only see that If anything, I should show up early and talk with people that are there and encourage them and help them remember THAT moment.

I just don't understand showing up early and pay respect to the DJ... He may deserve your respect, but making it fake is pretty stupid. And then, he may not deserve your respect, and may be a real jerk who is just trying to outdo you...

I don't know. I guess its case-by-case...but I don't understand the General "Respect the DJ before you" rule...(especially since some DJ's ...perhaps even myself...aren't worth much respect)

[dj metro]

i always show up early, and usually bring my own decks and mixer because i know my shit works. i also scan the dancefloor and see what is makin people move so i when i am up i can maintain that flow.

when you have an event with a lot of different dj's and styles i think it is important to listen to dj's that are close to your style so you can avoid playing the same tracks.

if you are in a nightclub and you have some tracks that are currently really popular you can expect to play them at least twice in a night so playing tracks that another dj played earlier isn't too much of a concern as long as you keep them distant from each other. i have had people ask me to play a song that i just dropped 15 minutes ago, but the funny thing is that when they get drunk enough they will do ANYTHING to get it played. some guy gave me $50 to play a track that i had just played about 15 minutes previous just so he could use the song to play mackdaddy whitey. so of course i dropped it again, but... you just gotta read the place.

i would rather be anally early than "fashionably" late or dead on time because it works out way better for me.

[RNA]

Originally posted by djsteel
just out of complete curiousity, what is your 'motivation' for "giving respect to the DJ before you"...

I guess the theory is that the more respect we all put into the scene, the more we will get back out. If you show up early and give the opener props, then that increases the chance of them giving you props. Fake or not, the more energy they put out on the dance floor during your set only increases the total energy of the floor. Positive energy out = positive energy in...

(ok... that's my hippie answer)

Really, if you generally know the person that is playing before you, then you know if you should show up out of respect for them and give them some props. If you don't know who they are, then maybe you should show up and check out part of their set. If no one did that for you when you started opening parties, no DJ's would know who you are or what you do, and you would probably not get many bookings. Neither of these circumstances requires "fake respect". If you show up to give some props, and they don't deserve them, there are plenty of ways to make that known as well.

ALSO... if you show up early, and the party totally sucks, you can always deck-dive and then bail, and save yourself some time and hassle.

[dj plantlife]

Originally posted by bright


I thought I was playing along.

- Paul

Well then, isn't my sarcasm meter just jacked the f up...

Steel - Are you really that good? Send me a link to a live mix of yours and I'll give you an honest review. From there we will decide whether or not you should show up early... Until then, I'll hold my tongue, because I'm really having a hard time not talking shit...

[Tasty]

Originally posted by djsteel
just out of complete curiousity, what is your 'motivation' for "giving respect to the DJ before you"...
I don't know. I guess its case-by-case...but I don't understand the General "Respect the DJ before you" rule...(especially since some DJ's ...perhaps even myself...aren't worth much respect)

Well, first of all, hypothetically speaking, if I was booked to spin after you. I'd show up early, because I have no clue who you are. I've never heard of you. I've never heard you spin. Still, I'd show up, to see what you're all about. I'd show up early to hear what you have been putting your heart and soul into before I spin. (I do hope that when you play out, that is how you feel.) Because I DO believe that it is important for the flow and energy of the event to be the main focus. I DO believe that all the participants create, and contribute to the energy and vibe of the event. How can one consciously contribute if one just show's up w/ no care of what has occurred before one's dj set?

Respect is for the culture that we all belong to. It is respect for the promoters that took the time to listen to my demo, or dance at an event I played at. I may not know you, but I sure as hell respect myself, and I would be hard pressed to make myself look like an ass for playing a track that someone else has already played.

I'm not hear to toot my horn. But, I was taught by my antecedants in our culture to respect one another, and to respect our culture. I may not know you personally. However, does that indicate that I should not respect you as a fellow music lover, and member of our community?

Would you not be appreciative if some person (DJ or otherwise) took the time to come early check out your set before they came on to see how they can add onto your contributions?

Food for thought.

[dj plantlife]

^^^See what I mean, Steel, this guy has weapons to back his words, too. Good mix, Tasty.

[djsteel]

Thanks, Tasty and RNA. There are a lot of things that I don't see and I appreciate it.

DJ Plantlife - Im trying to understand it...That's all. Let's say for conversation, I am a superstar International DJ and I do tour through Germany and France and I get my records direct...or lets say, Im not even a DJ at all, and I am just on this message board learning about the party scene. Who do you think you are to sit there and question 'How GOOD I am in respects to a question?

You just epitimized the entire rationalization for my question. If you think I need to prove my "Status" to you in ANY way, Im really sorry...If you...can't explain the reason why I should come early (or stay late) and see your set with constructive conversation, then you are no use to any of us.

I think RNA put it very well which is to say it is out of Helping others, encouraging those who are up and coming, and also to give respect to the scene.

I also think Tasty put in a really good point of Wanting to hear others and see what is going on with the party and the scene.

They have valid opinions which I appreciate very much, and I hope to hear more about it...

Thanks.

[RNA]

Originally posted by Tasty
I was taught by my antecedants

Who... Charlie's mom?

[Tasty]

Originally posted by RNA


Who... Charlie's mom?

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA **deep breath** HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! No, not Cha-REE's mom.

The veterano's back in LA when I first started going to shows/ raves/ parties/ whathaveyou.......

[dj plantlife]

Steel - It (the reason to show up early) seems to be there in plain English several time BEFORE you made your post. You have made yourself sound arrogant. Now, before you go lambasting me with some other stupid comment and try to back it by pointing out someone else's post, read all of the other posts. So it seems that arrogance might not be your problem, but sheer laziness.

And the reason I asked to hear a mix is to see if you can hold it down, because basically, what you've just said is "I show up when I want because my mad skills will keep this party going." And the reason I say this is because:

A. If you were an international DJ, you would have already gone through the motions and you wouldn't have to ask. (Unless, of course you just got really really really lucky and sucked the one cock that mattered.)

B. If you weren't a DJ, you wouldn't have said that in the first place.

How you respond to the DJ before you has EVERYTHING to do with your "job." If the people are loving it, keep it going, if they are hating it, step it up.

And since you don't know who I am, that makes my opinion valid. Because as far as you're concerned, the opinion you have expressed might affect when and where you play; seeing as to how I might have a hand in things that you just don't know about.

On another note: If you're not planning on showing up early, put some free music out there anyhow because that might help get you booked.

[Tasty]

Originally posted by dj plantlife
^^^See what I mean, Steel, this guy has weapons to back his words, too. Good mix, Tasty.

Thank you Plantlife :)

I'm glad you enjoyed the mix. I have another cd coming out: D-Lish Sessions vol. 2 'Musica de Vina...... You Gotta Have It.'

Be on the look out.... or actually click on the link on my sig. (link on my sig is still my old mix).

Regards,

[SonikBaby69]

*yawn*

[electrokid]

*stretch*

i like to arrive at least 2 hrs early if possible. this gives me time to check out the party, catch up w/ friends, dance, take in the music, and pull records according to what type of music the dj is playing before me.

my own little ritual i guess.

[Tasty]

Originally posted by SonikBaby69
*yawn*

h00t!!! LOL! Amelia!!!!! WAKE UP! ;)

[Boyd Main]

I like to turn up about half an hour early - it gives me time to scarf down my two free drinks.

[ornerite]

For the few parties that I've played out I've always been a member of the party too. I like it that way. Hanging with friends and meeting new people. I wouldnt want to look at spinning as a Job, but as something fun to do.

Aaron

[DJ Ice]

Come to the party when it starts...

Socialize...

Have a good time...

Socialize...

Sit for a second...

Socialize...

Have a good time...

Spin my set...

Have a good time & socialize...

Have a good time!

;)

[~MiSs ViXeN~]

yea what he said!


everyone here has some real good advice. im still learning some of these things (like energy flow and whatnot) as ive only just started playing out. but what i want to know is what do you do if your the one opening and all you play is energetic hard dance and the like? i try to play "softer" stuff and not too fast, but i feel like the flow of the party isnt quite right when u have HH first, then breaks, then trance, then jungle...lol. so that goes back to the whole promoters not having any sense of flow.
..but at the same time, if your just startin out i rekon u cant be too picky bout it, which im not really because i totally apprechiate any oppurtunities to play out. so do u just wing it and focus on the progression of yer set with consideration for what the next dj is playing? or do u simply play what is yer style, and not worry bout it?

~Tracy

[dj metro]

Originally posted by ~MiSs ViXeN~
yea what he said!


everyone here has some real good advice. im still learning some of these things (like energy flow and whatnot) as ive only just started playing out. but what i want to know is what do you do if your the one opening and all you play is energetic hard dance and the like? i try to play "softer" stuff and not too fast, but i feel like the flow of the party isnt quite right when u have HH first, then breaks, then trance, then jungle...lol. so that goes back to the whole promoters not having any sense of flow.
..but at the same time, if your just startin out i rekon u cant be too picky bout it, which im not really because i totally apprechiate any oppurtunities to play out. so do u just wing it and focus on the progression of yer set with consideration for what the next dj is playing? or do u simply play what is yer style, and not worry bout it?

~Tracy

experience, trial and error... those are the 2 things that will help you out the most. trial and error will give you knoweledge and to learn what does and does not work, which is essential for you to further your experiences and gain experience. i haven't played out much either, but i have learned a few things here and there about some different clubs and parties that go on. knowing people that throw a party or run a club does help, because you can ask what kind of people normally show up and what kind of music they generally react to the best.

you can't worry too much about what the next dj is going to play. with all due respect, that is the job of the next dj to do. that is why it is important to come early and see what's crackin before you get in the booth and change the feeling and vibe so much that is has a big impact on everyone. i find it is good to spin different genre's that way i can morph into a different genre from another and start my real set. i have had to do it before. if you keep a constant beat in the mix while you transition and make it good, most people will never notice.

that also comes with experience. just experiment with things. there is no wrong way to go about it. even if you piss people off, make a mistake, anything... we are all human and it isn't anything to worry about. just be yourself.

[groovinkim]

Originally posted by ~MiSs ViXeN~
everyone here has some real good advice. im still learning some of these things (like energy flow and whatnot) as ive only just started playing out. but what i want to know is what do you do if your the one opening and all you play is energetic hard dance and the like? i try to play "softer" stuff and not too fast, but i feel like the flow of the party isnt quite right when u have HH first, then breaks, then trance, then jungle...lol. so that goes back to the whole promoters not having any sense of flow.


i think it's worth it to talk to them about it.. it won't necessarily mean that you'll be out of a gig. it's not really fair to you to book you for a party and expect you to play something totally different from what you want to play...

are these people that have already heard your mixtapes/cd's or heard you mix? i think the number of promoters who are willing to book someone without knowing what their sound is like is astonishing... and they do it both for 'big name' djs and for newer ones..

[2kewl4uNskewl]

music industry motto:

Early is on time. On time is late.

[Cethe]

I got a couple ideas in general here.
even though I don't DJ out I think it's a good idea in general to check out the scene, vibe and ovearall flow of the party thus far.

also having promoted a few parties, I like it when the Dj is at least a set early, if not two. That way I know he's there andI don't have to scramble for someone to fill the slot. And I know he won't drop a track that has already been played.

I also think that far too many promoters do not book a flow for the evening at all. The music is a journey and the party an adventure, treat it like a story almost. Take the audience to a different level or music enjoyment.

btw good topic i'm glad I tripped over it.

[flipsta]

This is an interesting topic, so ill throw my .02 in. Personally I always try to show up at minimum an hour before my set to scope out the vibe of the party, what people are diggin that night, etc. I wouldnt want to just show up and jump right on, cause that allows no time for feeling things out and really getting focused. The only times I show up close before my set are if Im playing at like 3 or 4 in the morning cause I was probably napping. ;) THats just me though, as far as other djs go, I dont really care when a dj shows up, it just doesnt matter to me as long as they are on time. Why? Because I dont take it personally if a dj shows up as my set is ending. Maybe they had other stuff to do, maybe they are just slackers, dont know, dont care. Obviously its different when its your friends cause its cool to see your dj friends getting down to you spin. Also this thing about being disrespectful by playing a record played earlier is kind of baseless imho. Face it people, we are human jukeboxes! :D Oh yeah and just in case anyway thinks I'm talking out my ass, theres a link to my mix below, lol.

[Tasty]

Originally posted by flipsta
....Face it people, we are human jukeboxes! :D Oh yeah and just in case anyway thinks I'm talking out my ass, theres a link to my mix below, lol.

H00T!!!! Flip you have such an eloquent college educated writing style w/ your sarcasm!

[flipsta]

Thanks Dan, I knew all those writing classes would be good for something! :p

[Tasty]

^^^ Yup!

[Advent]

Personally I show up to the party when I show up. If i'm early cool if not, cool. For me, I play what i'm going to play. I'll definetly cater to the people and make the transition as smooth as possible. I won''t play after a D&B dj and throw on downtempo, or vice versa. It's really up to the promoter to promote flow between the dj's. The promoter is the communicator for the dj's and tell's them what he wants. Honestly that is'nt always the case, but that would help.

If I play the same song, oh well. With the style I spin that's next to impossible unless i'm playing with other dj's who spin the same music, which hardly is the case. If the music is just going to go, boom boom boom, then flow really does'nt matter, unless it's that cheesy shit and that stuff should'nt be played out anyways, or at least where no one can hear it.

[Advent]

I'm not meaning to beat a dead dog to death with this comment but I thought it was ironic...

I played at Bumbershoot on Sunday. Talk about music flow, they had me play after a progressive dj. If you knew my style that would seem a little off right? Well it was, to bridge the gap of course I played some "indian" trance( two trax, I hate trance, bad name I know just trying to explain) and obviously it did'nt work well. Going from progressive to progressive but with tabla's and sweeping turkish orchestra's is a little odd. Sure enough I went out of that ASAP and went to breaks.

The rock star producer Karsh Kale from NYdid his rock star thing and showed up 10min before his set right. Believe or not he played 5 of the same trax I played earlier. The shit cracked me up, anyways thought I would share this will yall just for a practical explanation of what everyone has been writing about.

[**Deep6**]

I usually show up about 2 hrs before, just cause my pabst will get warm if i don't...but, really folks, as long as you can get there atleast a half hour before your set, and get set to play after whomever it is you are playing after, that's all that matters in my mind...
but that's my mind, and it's all screwy anyways...

[00negative]

If you just worked a long day, its understandable to get there a little late, or if its like a 3 hour drive back home or something and you want to leave after you play so you dont end up kissing a tree w/ the front of your car.Sometimes things are constricted by time. But generally, over looking the whole djing aspect of it, the polite thing to do is to hang around before and after your set. After all, didnt we get into this mess 'cause we enjoyed the music? - Jake

[Soular]

I've only opened so far....

I think that when I do play a party later in the night (as I do have one coming up) I'll probably be there all night. I still enjoy going to parties and hanging out, so I'm sure that won't change, unless work gets in the way. Either way, I would probably show up as early as I can. As far as playing something that somebody else has, I don't really have to worry about that because hardly anybody spins what I spin, and I haven't heard 99% of the tracks I have and play at a party.

[RYLE2K4]

if at all possible i like to arrive with enough time to:

- get in the venue / deal with any security check
- put my records down
- survey the crowd and the venue
- see what's going musically on in other rooms
- talk to the sound guy (if you can find him)
- walk the dancefloor to get the vibe of the room itself
- sift through my records one last time and get organized to play
- find the promoter and get paid (if possible)

all of this depends on the gig, the night, etc.... dj'ing is my life, my passion, and profession even though i have a day job..... sometimes it's nice to listen to the whole set of the dj before you from the dancefloor to hear what the room hears before you get on... sometimes it's cool to walk in and play whatever the fuck you feel like....

but regardless, i pride myself on playing off the vibe of the people i see before me... no matter how weak or strong that vibe is.... i almost NEVER plan anything out, and even though i've never played any other way i have to just play what feels right in the moment... some dj's only play *insert whatever genre here* and that's it... with no freedom to switch things up if the crowd doesn't dig it... you are basically saying to the crowd and the promoter "this is what you get, tough shit if you don't like it" ...i can't imagine playing that way. I genre hop constantly to met the changing vibe of the room or to create a journey for the dancers because when it comes down to it, a dj is live musical entertainment... and should respect the crowd and it's want / need for that entertainment.

furthermore, someone brought up a really good point earlier... most promoters don't put much thought into the flow of the night, from dj to dj... a progression thoughout the night... it sucks to walk into a room at 10:15 to play a 11:00 set and you find and empty dancefloor because the promoter decided to put an epic trance dj on to start the night.... wtf? with our events i painstakingly put together line ups and timeslots that work with each other and find the progession and connections between the djs' styles' and schedules....

[ALATIN]

I am a little late into the game, but thought I would add my thoughts to it anyway.

I enjoy going about an hour or two beforehand. A dj has to capture the energy of the crowd and become a part of the crowd before you have a good shot at entertaining them. It helps me to be there and be around. If I just show up before I get on then I feel like I have missed something important. I meditate with my audience around me. It really helps and I think it is sad not to see some top dj's at least behind the scenes watching. Good topic.
Ray

[hardhousetyrant]

To be early,

a) Sumone may cancel.
b) I don't want to play the same track the last 4 djs in a row had played.
c) I like to see people when they're sober and as Alatin said "Feel the vibe from that point on".

[dj heavyweight]

Originally posted by bright
Promoters don't promote flow anymore, they promote "This DJ has this or that style". So why should a DJ bother to care what came before his/her set? Usually, it won't flow anyways because everyone is playing distinct styles because that is how the promoters are billing DJ's, and a lot of DJ's have grown up with this kind of mentality now, too.


- Paul

we (pussycat) always promote "flow" ill never book a house dj after an NRG dj or D'n'B right before florida breaks.....

but your right.....promoters have dropped the ball on that for years...and now, we have an entire generation of dj that either dont know or dont care.

[Sophistik]

I keep flow in mind. But it's not only for the respect of the dancers. The last thing any DJ wants is to clear a floor because they totally culture-shocked everyone in the room.

Early this year I was booked to play some trance n breaks right after a ragga and jungle tag with Axiom and Ownz. I did my best to keep the flow, by playing Nuskool first, then some Progressive and Trance breaks after... I knew mah homie Dave (Skatan) was comming next so I started dropping harder Trance towards the end.

It was the best I could do vibe wise.

I don't think you kill a parties vibe per say when two DJ's of genres on opposite ends of the spectrum (worst case scenario) are playing back to back unless everyone on the floor is a total single-genered head (then your fucx0rd). But what does happen is that you definatly genre-shock the floor. It's like dropping Country and then to New Age and finally into 80's Big Hair Butt Rock. It gets awkward, it feels awkward, it sounds awkward. It's just weird when every DJ that night flipped the power switch off of the playing deck. But what can you do?

Sometimes there's nothing you can do except the best that you can do I guess. Play shit that vibes if you can. If not, blame the promoter for slotting shit too wierdly.

[Soular]

Originally posted by Sophistik
It's like dropping Country and then to New Age and finally into 80's Big Hair Butt Rock. It gets awkward, it feels awkward, it sounds awkward.
It seems to work well for Z-Trip :p

[djrobbnelson]

RESPECT !!!!
Show up for every dj you can !!!!!
especially if you are booked together !!!!!
support each other , one love baby !!!
ONE !!!!

[djadonis]

It all depends -

A. Is it a party you would be at if you weren't DJing?

B. Are any of your friends playing before you?

Personally I don't really care to hang out hours before my set and listen to some DJ I've never heard of. Or have heard a million times before - It's usually a lot more fun to pre-funk with your friends before your set some where else -

Vibing off the dj before you? Promoters book you for YOUR style of music - it's up to the promoter to get his/her timeslots correct if they want djs to vibe off each other...personally I could care less about the DJ before or after me unless I'm opeing or closing for a bigger DJ I respect like Dan or Terry.

[Daz]

being a non-dj (or at least... someone who doesn't play outside of his living room..)

I like it when DJs show up early and leave late...

especially when they stand in the crowd...

it lets me know they actually care about what they're doing enough to assess in the situation.

and thats cool.. because I paid money to be there... to see them put down other people's music... something i very well could have done at home... but they are taking the time to make my night better by scanning the crowd and getting the feel... not just going through the motions...

i'm much more likely to want to go see that person again if i see them out there, then they tear it up...

*shrug*

people that don't flow often cause me to leave the room cursing...

[dubplaya]

Originally posted by Daz


I like it when DJs show up early and leave late...

especially when they stand in the crowd...



Perfect example : Zacharia...that man is insane on the dance floor...then he brings that same craziness onto the decks. For sure a true crowd pleaser!

Peace
Mike

[Soular]

Flave does that a lot too. In fact, he was at Cosmic Friday last week, and he wasn't even playing. I found that to be really cool that he was out supporting :)

[djadonis]

DJ's are just like anybody else - If it's a good night they'll go out even if they're not playing.

I see all kinds of DJ's out everywhere all the time...now that doesn't mean I think they're cool for going out somewhere...I either like their music or I don't.

knowing that people are looking for you when your not suppose to be playing is scary - I think that's borderline stalking...

[Soular]

Are you implying that I'm a stalker? :eek:

[djadonis]

Originally posted by perfect_trip
Are you implying that I'm a stalker? :eek:

Of course not...

[Soular]

I wasn't looking for him, I just happened to spot him behind the stage. I'm no stalker mang.

[confident wino]

its rare that i show up late for a gig (but i have done it a once or twice, sorry Dank). i think it's good for you to be there at least an hour or so before you play. never know what might happen and arriving late (on purpose) is some ego-based rockstar shit and that just aint me.

[djadonis]

15 to 20 minutes before your set is Kosher - Enough time to get your records together, hug your friends and vibe (if you must) off the guy or gal before you -

[Advent]

Originally posted by djadonis
DJ's are just like anybody else - If it's a good night they'll go out even if they're not playing.

I see all kinds of DJ's out everywhere all the time...now that doesn't mean I think they're cool for going out somewhere...I either like their music or I don't.


That still kind of trips me out. I remember when I first started going to parties when I was 15 and being like "whoa that's the dj!!". Now that's so far from the truth. Still there are alot of people like that and it's cool. I just think it's hella funny, putting em up on a pedestal. Yeah though, I agree with all that you saying.

[StarPhox]

Originally posted by TheLiquid1
I'm almost always early, I like to help out and make myself as useful as possible :) I enjoy that kinda thing though.

By useful he means make a pain outta himself. ;)

I think most DJs just don't care if they flow, frankly. Hell, half of the bigger names just flick the off switch and let it all wind down.

[djsadiablo]

It's always best to arrive early. Then you get a feel for how things are going. If you open it doesn't really matter though (and I always hate getting off work, showing up early, and getting suckered into last minute prep stuff). If your helping throw the party and spin, try to get there at lunch time. Free Jack in the Box rules.