The perfect DJ set is a fine art. There are so many variables to consider, such as crowd atmosphere, equipment hiccups, and split-second decisions that can alter the way you play your set for an audience. But that’s what makes it such an exciting and unique form of performance.
Every great DJ set needs structure and a fair amount of planning, and as a beginner in the industry, you’re in a space where the structure you use is still under development.
Now is the time to adopt the right approach to set creation so that you can lay a strong foundation for your career as a DJ. These tips will help provide a framework for the process of building a fantastic DJ set that can put you on the map as an emerging talent.
Think about who you are playing for
The very first thing you want to consider as a DJ when building a set is who is going to be hearing and dancing to it. The crowd you play for should play a major role in how you structure your set and what kind of genres, atmospheres, and paces you incorporate into it.
Once you’ve booked your gig, research the venue and the kind of audience it typically attracts. You can also ask the events coordinator. This can help you start compiling a playlist that naturally appeals to the expected crowd and ensures a smoother, more professional performance.
Gather inspiration from fellow DJs
Over time, you will develop your own style of set development and learn how to design one that suits both your and the audience’s needs. But in the meantime, it’s okay to draw inspiration from other DJs that you look up to and respect.
Watch live sets on YouTube of your favorite DJs killing it behind the decks and talk to other DJs that you know about their creative process. There is absolutely nothing wrong with applying what you learn to your own sets—in fact, it is recommended, especially in the early phase of your career!
Draw from a broad music library
The more diverse and broad-reaching your music library is, the easier it will be to curate a set with a unique sound that can adapt to the changeable mood of a live crowd.
Work on diversifying and expanding your music library while building a set so that you have as many options as possible for how you’d like to proceed.
Incorporate surprise elements
Audiences like to be surprised. In fact, it’s one of the things that make for some of the most memorable sets in music history. You might not consider yourself Steve Aoki or David Guetta (just yet!), but applying innovative techniques like this can set you apart from other beginner DJs from the get-go.
Don’t allow your crowd to scatter due to repetitive sounds. Play with the mood of the room by taking the people in it on a journey of different emotions and soundscapes.
Give it peaks and valleys, twists and turns. Just make sure the overarching story being told still makes sense within the context of the environment.
Know your equipment
This is just a good DJ habit. You should know your equipment like you know your favorite track. If you add anything new to the mix, take the time to learn everything about how it works, what can go wrong, and how to fix it on the fly. You can teach yourself, or you can book a DJ course to get advice from the pros. From new software to new turntables, the quality of your set depends on how familiar you are with your gear.
Create a framework
When it comes to creating the perfect DJ set, it is crucial to have a plan. Only a few really experienced DJs can get away with winging it, and while you might be on your way there, it is always best to show up with a prepared framework to give you structure and prevent nerves from setting in while behind the decks.
Create a playlist and a steady, easy-to-follow framework so that you have something to follow and refer to throughout your set if you get lost. Chances are, you won’t always need it, but having it there as a guide for what to do next can make all the difference!
Play Like A Pro
One of the defining characteristics of a great DJ is the ability to build up a strong set. By considering audiences, gathering inspiration, being prepared, and embracing a diverse yet surprising attitude to playlist compilation, you’ll be slinging out sets like a pro in no time at all.
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