CAREERS
From Issue #13
So You Wanna Be A DJ
By
Sydnia Yu
The DJ is in charge of the party, the centre of
attention, and the epitome of cool.
DJing begins with a passion for music. Know what
you like heading to the record shops and gradually
search for new music. Start by creating a collection 
of
about 100 albums: serious DJs accumulate 30-40,000
over the years. And pick your medium. South Asian DJ
Malika Shara says, “I like vinyl because there’s more
showmanship. It’s a lot more interactive. There’s a performance
aspect to it.”
You’ll need two turntables, a mixer, headphones, an
amp, a monitor and record bins or carrying cases, most
of which can be bought used for a few hundred to a few
thousand dollars. A recording device and mic are
optional. Regular venues provide equipment, but onetime
gigs like after-hour parties may require you to
bring and set up your own gear.
Now fool around on your own or learn the basics of
beat mixing and scratching from a mentor DJ. However,
DJ Malika says, “The best way is still learning on your
own because someone can teach you the basics but
everything from that point on is your own effort. It’s like
painting. Someone can give you paint and a brush, but
after that it’s up to you.” Then practice, practice, practice.
When you’re the best bedroom DJ you know, do
some shameless self-promotion. Throw parties, hand
out demos, broadcast a show, and network with music
promoters and nightclub owners. DJ Shane 
Kingsley
says a person can be proficient in a few years with dedication
and determination. Once you land a gig, know
what the audience expects to hear and give them what
they want—you’re not playing for yourself, but creating
an atmosphere.
Payment ranges from $50-500 per 4-5 hour sets,
depending on the venue, size of the event, cover charge
and whether you’re the headlining act or not. Beginners
frequently play for drinks or for free just to get the
exposure. But DJ Dan Higham says, “Don’t be ashamed
to ask for what you’re worth.” According to music promoter
Mike Greco, “Guys that make it to become
superstar DJs can make a couple of million, but they’re
also producers. If you can produce your own music
and it’s really good, people will associate your name
with quality music.”
DJ Nirvan Wanigasekera, 19, says competition is
fierce, making it easy to burn out in an over-saturated
market. “The music changes and new DJs come in, so
you have to try to stay on top,” says Nirvan. “You have to
get music before other DJs and try to find new methods
to spin.” Creating your own music can set you apart.
While DJing may seem like all fun and games at first,
it’s a tough profession like anything else. But it’s worth
it when you’re controlling the crowds from behind the
decks and you watch the room explode into a frenzy of
energy at the drop of a track.
