Starting out as a beginner DJ is one of the most exciting journeys you’ll ever take. The rush of mixing tracks, creating a vibe, and seeing a crowd get lost in the music is truly like no other. But let me tell you, as someone with 24 years of experience, there are some big mistakes you’ll want to avoid. I was a beginner DJ myself, and I’m here to share so you don’t have to!
Not Investing in Your Own DJ Setup
First things first: if you’re serious about DJing, you’ve got to invest in your own gear. When I first started, I made the mistake of relying on other people’s equipment. While that can work in the very beginning, it’s not sustainable. Owning your own setup gives you control over your sound, your brand, and your entire performance.
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Why You Need Your Own Gear:
- Consistency: Learning how to DJ is like any other instrument. You need to consistently practice and the only way you can do that is if you have your dj setup.
- Professionalism: Owning your own gear makes you look more legit to clients and venues. Especially if you are a mobile DJ. You need your own mobile DJ setup.
- Growth: You will gradually improve your DJ setup the more experience you get and the more events that you book.
But a quick tip here: don’t fall into the trap of trying to buy the most expensive gear in the beginning!
Spending Too Much on Your First DJ Setup
Now, I get it—you want the best gear out there. Trust me, I’ve been there too! That shiny new controller or those studio-grade monitors can be tempting. But here’s the thing: you don’t need to spend a fortune right out of the gate.
When I was a beginner DJ, I bought gear I didn’t even know how to use properly yet. Big mistake. You’ll have time to upgrade as your skills improve and as your needs evolve.
Spending Too Much on Your First DJ Setup
- Start with the basics: A solid controller, a laptop, headphones, and monitors are more than enough.
- Upgrade gradually: As you gain experience, you’ll know which pieces of gear will make the most difference.
- Research before you buy: Watch reviews, ask other DJs, and buy used gear before investing top dollar.
The key here is to get comfortable with what you have before diving into big investments. You can build your empire over time!
Not DJing Nightlife Events
Before becoming a private events DJ make sure you get nightlife experience. While these are great, you should be stepping into nightlife scenes as early as you can. When I was a beginner DJ, it was nightlife events that really helped me grow as a DJ. Why? Because you build your story and learn how to read a room.
Why You Should Do Nightlife Gigs:
- Experience high-energy crowds: You’ll learn how to keep a crowd hyped for hours.
- Adapt to different environments: Every club or bar is different, which forces you to be flexible.
- Networking opportunities: This is where you’ll meet other DJs, promoters, and potential clients.
Nightlife events also teach you how to handle the unexpected—whether it’s a technical glitch or an unpredictable crowd. If you’re not out there in those environments, you’re missing out on some valuable lessons.
Not Having a Contract for Private and Corporate Events
Nightlife events also teach you how to handle the unexpected—whether it’s a technical glitch or an unpredictable crowd. If you’re not out there in those environments, you’re missing out on some valuable lessons.
Why Contracts Matter:
- Clarity: Everything from payment details to performance times should be laid out clearly.
- Protection: A contract protects you if something goes wrong—whether that’s a cancellation or an unpaid fee.
- Professionalism: Contracts show your clients that you’re serious about your work.
Make sure your contract covers everything—timing, gear, setup, and teardown, even food and breaks. It doesn’t have to be complicated, but it needs to be solid. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.
Not Going Out to Listen to Other DJs
One of the biggest pieces of advice I can give you is this: go out and listen to other DJs. It’s easy to get wrapped up in your own gigs, your own sound, and your own routine. But there is so much to learn from watching others work. Early in my career, I’d hit up local clubs on my off-nights just to hear how other DJs were mixing, reading the crowd, and creating their vibe.
Benefits of Listening to Other DJs:
- Learn new techniques: You might pick up mixing tricks or song transitions you hadn’t thought of.
- Inspiration: Watching others can spark fresh ideas for your own sets.
- Build connections: Introduce yourself to the DJ, or to others in the audience—it’s a great way to grow your network.
DJs can get into the habit of staying in their bubble. But trust me, if you’re not out there seeing what others are doing, you’re limiting yourself. So get out there, support your fellow DJs, and keep learning!
Your Journey as a DJ
So, those are the biggest mistakes I see beginner DJs make—and I’ve made a few of them myself. The good news is that you don’t have to make the same ones! Take it slow, build your skills, and invest in yourself. And don’t forget to have fun with it—DJing is supposed to be a joy, not a chore.
What mistakes have you made as a DJ, or what’s your biggest worry starting out? Let’s talk about it in the comments below. You’re not alone on this journey—every DJ starts somewhere, and we’re all learning together!
And remember, the best DJs are the ones who keep evolving. Whether that’s through new gear, fresh gigs, or learning from others, keep pushing forward. You’ve got this!
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