Very well delivered, “use records that make sense”…so I now realize that I may have to put a little extra thought in my sets to play records that go together, even when changing the energy, I will make a more conscious effort to play records that complement the flow and timing of an event along with my demographic
Yes man. DJing isn’t just about the mechanics. That’s just one aspect. Understanding your audience. Appealing to there emotions, managing their attention, etc., takes just as much skill. Maybe not physical, but mental.
This is a GREAT tutorial! Curating a live set is a different skill set than learning how to battle. The truth is, when I first started playing live outside of my bedroom, and was learning how to Mix (I think you may remember me asking you about this Rob when I FIRST had a one on one lesson with you which was btw super embarrassing I hope you dont still have that video) the sound selection of my sets is what got me rebooked over and over- solely because of sound selection and curation. I had be creative because I didn’t know how to properly mix at first, but I ALWAYS made sure my sets kept a dance floor going and my transitions made sense, and I knew how to connect and vibe with the room. I feel like this skill often gets overlooked and you can always tell when a DJ is playing for themselves to show off or play for the room they are curating. Its a HUGE difference – even if the DJ is highly skilled technically, if they cant curate that doesn’t translate to being a good gig DJ.
After placing 6th in the 2022 Brolic Army Music Mash Challenge, I came back to revisit this Masterclass as well as the other classes featuring DJ P, seeing that he was one of the judges for the mash challenge. I rewatched my entry numerous times and there is a lot I have to improve on. Therefore, I am rewatching these masterclasses to refresh, recharge, refocus, and reinvigorate my creativity. (P.S. and to keep my dam hands off the platter. smh)
It’s always good to review. With regards to your hand on the platter technique, maybe try to improve on it. So if you are going to make your micro speed adjustments with your hand on the platter, learn how to touch in a way where it’s not as sonically noticeable. DJ P is right tho, ideally, you want to learn how to “ride the pitch” so that your adjustments aren’t as abrupt.
8 Comments on 010 – DJ P discusses curating an energetic set