DJ Music

DJing its all about honey’s and after parties, I mean think about it, you’re the DJ, you’re the one playing the Music, i.e. you’re working for everyone else’s benefit, not surprising really that lots of Djs get disillusioned with being a DJ.

One of the big things about DJing thats a bit poo is the traveling, if you’re eager to break in to the DJ circuit, you’re gonna have to travel, theres no real work around this one, but traveling is part and parcel with being a DJ, even more so of you only DJ a certain niche genre of music.  Most DJs start out as mobile DJs or DJ at various clubs on the circuit, some might be lucky enough to travel abroad and get gigs in clubs in other countries.

If you’re going to DJ and travel, you’re going to have to think about what you need to take with you, consider teh equipment, the type of music and spare equipment in case of any breakage.  Try and take advantage of the driving time by playing you set on the car stereo. Get loads of rest before you head out and pack your equipment away properly making sure sensitive equipment is well padded and securly in place. Make sure you know where you are going to DJ and how to get there. Pack spare clothes (seriously clean underwear..life saver), drink loads of water especially if you are traveling abroad for a gig.

heres a list of pointers to bear in mind when traveling as a DJ.

• take a good and varied selection of music
• learn and get to know your various sets
• make sure you have the contact details for any clubs you are going to DJ at
• remember to take any promo material you have, as a DJ you’re always promoting so bring mix CDs, business cards and flyers of your next DJ gig
• if you get the chance scout out venues and preceeding DJs
• get to your gig early
• get loads of sleep before you travel
• remember to keep your loved ones in the loop about where you’re heading
• make sure you get yourtravel documents in order before hand.
• take spares of anything that is fragile - headphones, needles, slipmats
• make sure you pack your equipment properly, make sure your Dj equipment is well padded and secure before you travel
• bring spare cloathing (don’t tell me I didn’t warn you)
• Get a Pacemaker and pratice your gig before you get to your venue.

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The internet has meant that we are becoming increasingly portable, however there are still things that require hard storage space music for example. with technology getting smaller and wireless wifi internet becoming more common place, you can now store your entire DJ music collection online.

Two sites in particular now offer this service: mp3tunes.com, and jukefly.com, the benefits of this are that no matter what computer you’re on or where you are, so long as there’s an internet connection you can play DJ music to your hearts content.

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Pretty cool video of some kid with an iPhone and some pretty nifty DJ related apps installed on his iPhone, this is a pretty clear example of where DJ technology is heading. Now if only the Apple guys would allow 3rd party apps on the iPhone…

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Any one who’s spoken with me will know I’ve got a bit of an obsession with Apple,gadgets, portable things and DJing, the iPhone, fits this down to a T, with the exception of being able to DJ with it, there were rumors of an iPhone DJ app, you can see more about it here.

As it turns of things in the iPhone world are working in our favour and it doesn’t seem like long before we will have an actual DJ application that is native for the iPhone. long live music, and till then, I’m quite happy with my Pacemaker, which by the way, rocks!

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just a little fun for the weekend by the Dj Duo Daft Punk, who DJ dressed as robots they are considered pioneers in the DJ Music world, and no doubt you’ll have heard plenty of they singles in the charts, they were particularly popular in the house music scene in France, uniquely they DJ as a pair with one programming the set and the other mixing, one of the key tracks they have produced was Harder, the video above, was a spoof viral produced and inspired by the track. In addition, another Music track that saw Daft punk hit the top of the charts was Around the World.

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Having a DJ setup isn’t enough, DJ equipment is bulky and takes up a lot of space and for some (including me), DJ equipment looks awesome. the guys at metrofarm.net, seem to share this love of art and DJ and have put together some fantastic DJ booths and DJ tables not only to DJ on, but also to present your DJ equipment on.

The DJ deck stands are made from a variety of materials, and allow the decks and mixer to be embedded into to the surface of the DJ deck stands, hiding all the cables and spiderweb mess within the body of the unit. The DJ stands are totally bespoke and made to clients requirements.

Metrofarm, them selves are a Berlin based duo of designers, who seem to have a real edge on conceptual and innovative projects.

Check out their DJ deck stands, these were two of my favourates

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DJing seems to be a bit of a novelty for some people, after all it possess that ‘cool’ hip, street cred so many people crave, ironically this isn’t what being a DJ is about.

No surprise then that designers and artists are taking to DJ equipment and DJing as a source of inspiration. Check out the picture below, an interesting take on both DJing and cooking, where the DJ mixer is the controller for the two hobs that take the place of decks, add to this built in speakers, a TV monitor and it looks like a DJ setup, certainly if you have the space and the money, it could make a bit of a feature. whats more intersting about this from a DJ perspective is that it again proves that DJing is now part of mainstream culture.

I suppose there is a parallel between DJing and cooking when you look at this:

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The Nintendo Wii, despite its name has been a bit of a phenomenon in the video game world, after all its very interactive and fun, just like DJing, no surprise then that some crazy DJ has decided to use a Wii-mote to DJ music.

Seeing as the Wii-mote is a bluetooth hardware, all you need to DJ or rather Wii-J is a blue tooth enabled computer that has some DJ software on it, you then simply need to configure the buttons and movements on the Wii-mote to control the DJ software, and , off you go, Wii-Jing, the new hip DJ fashion. Interestingly Decadance, the Dj software from Fruity loops, has got an upgrade which now means it natively supports the Wii-mote, it seems that DJ manufacturers are already cashing in on DJ innovations and trends like the Wii, could it be that there are opportunities in DJ technology to integrate such tools as the Wii-mote in the future?

At the very least DJs can now paint their Wii-motes luminescent yellow and pretend they are DJing with glowsticks, if Djing with a Wii-mote tickles your fancy, check out DJ Wii here.

And for you video fiends heres a video treat:

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THis video, shows the newly released app for the iPhone in action, the app is native to the iPhone and looks like a lot of fun, I don’t think its as functional as it can be considering its only one deck, and there’s no way to overlap, however its still a great fun DJ tool particularly suited to turntablists

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DJs are an innovative bunch, and the latest thing in DJing is video DJing, add to that the portablity the a DJ now has when DJing music, given by the Pacemaker, it got me thinking about DJing music and video on the go, specifically the out put, how would you DJ music and video on the go and share it with others, being a fan of social networking sites I came accross this: (here) Imagine being able to wear thing whilst DJing andVDJing and playout both music and video, using something as small and portable as the Pacemaker, for mobile DJs or DJs wok simply want to have a bit of fun and do something unique in set, this could add to the audience’s experience.

OK far fetched I know, and probably a long way off, but if technology continues the way it does, and the penetration if this technology integrates with the innovative passion of DJing only good things can happen.

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DJing is essentially a static art, after all you’re held down by the need of a power source and bulk DJ equipment and if you’re into Vinyl, a hefty load of DJ music as well.

Advancements in DJing and Music technology have meant that we are becoming increasingly portable, its only recently with the Pacemaker that its been at all possible to DJ music on the go. The Pacemaker however is still new, I’m only getting mine in a few days, as part of the premier edition, just to give you an idea of how new this DJ device is. Its costly too, so for some DJs this might be a little bit of a barrier.

Music technology has meant also that now we have iPods, mini iPods and DJ tools for iPods, which allow you to play music and in some cases mix music. Strange then that with the controls presented by the iPod and indeed the iPod touch and iPhone, no one has thought of creating applications that take advantage of the natural turntable like controls of an iPod and turn them into portable DJing devices. The iPod touch and iPhone add to the control features with their multi touch screens and this has spawed a whole range of DJ programs to help DJs on the go, mix music on the move. Using the most common of portable products- iPods and mobile phones.

There exists already a range of DJ software for mobile phones, most need a decent PDA type phone, which mimics the two turntables and mixer of a DJ setup, and you can find sampler style DJ software for mobile phones as well, but all these are limited in terms of their DJing capabilities for a DJ on the go.

Whats happening now though is that as DJs become increasingly portable and the technology we use becomes smaller we can now find DJ software that takes advantage of this.

Its a simple process too, you need to be able to play two tracks at the same time. Be able to match the speed and beats of these tracks, and alter the volume across the two tracks.

Mixmeister have created a software that allow DJs to scratch on the surface of a iPhone, its basically an effects module, and reminds me of a old toy key chain i use to have which was a turn table that made scratching sounds when you rotated the ‘vinyl’. the Mixmeister DJ software allows you to scratch over the playing track and control the volume of the track, so its only really useful if you have two, I suppose its useful if you’re getting widrawal symtoms when your out and about. Check it out here: Mixmeister iPhone DJ software

another more DJ friendly software is the iDJ, and a similar project called ideejay, both work on the same principle, mix with two channels, pitch control and cross fader, simple BUT all you really need to DJ on the go. One small problem though…how do you listen to one channel and let the other play out?

This doesn’t really suit all DJs, and there will be some who DJ music in a more production diven way, for these DJs, the Akai Mpc-500 iPhone DJ app is ideal, its native to the iPhone, so you won’t need to worry about ‘cracking’ your iPhone, it basically mimics a DJ sampler, allowing you to put different loops into a music mix. For a DJ looking to DJ music on the go, this is probably the best alternative to the portable DJ beauty that is the Pacemaker.

Essentially for a DJ looking to DJ music on the go, the DJ products to achieve this are limited, however there are a few DJ programs that will fill the gap for the time being.  however if you’re serious about DJing music using portable DJ devices and portable music devices, then you’d better start saving for the Pacemaker, which is purpose built for DJing music on the go.

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As a keen traveller and an avid DJ and DJ music fan, there are some must have items I always bring with me on my travels, particularly those where I know I’ll be DJing to a crowd. Before we go on I have to mention I DJ on a Laptop, partly because its easier to travel with and partly cause its far more flexible. So my list is really a bit bias to DJs who DJ on a laptop.

10. The Laptop- and DJing software, for me this is the heart of my DJ setup, with out it there is no DJing to be had, with the exception of my Pacemaker (when it ever arrives). The Laptop I take for DJing on is a Black Macbook, which is fantastic as it ticks all the boxes for a DJ on the go in terms of specs as well as costs. In terms of software, I have Tracktor, Ableton and the Pacemaker Editor setup, iTunes and beatport, and with internet I have access to Splice as well, not all or for DJing with, some are just for fun and to tickle my creativity

9. Headphones- especially on a flight, they not only help me sleep, but help when I’m working on a mix on the plane, my session DJ headphones re Technics RP DJ1210, there are pretty much the Farrai of DJ headphones.

8. ear protection- a definite must have, when you’re a DJ your ears are your livelihood, it makes sense to take good care of them and the first step is to have ear plus, after nights at clubs your ears can suffer serious damage, so its worth investing in some pro-earplug, when you’re in a club if you’re not DJing, keep them in.

7. Midi controller, after much deliberation, I decided on the monome controller, which you’ll have to hunt down, its ideal for the style of DJing i do, and works as a sample bank, midi controller and is stylish and small enough to fit in my DJ bag.

6. Lacie 500GB Big Disk, external hard drive, this is the monster truck of DJ music storage. I literally carry every record and album I own in this monster, naturally I have a back up at home too, definitely worth getting.

5. Road Ready GSMIXMC Gigskinz Bag, this is a great bag for travelling with, comfortable, carrys virtually all my important DJ gear, spare set of undies, travel documents and books for the flight.

4. Backups of all my software, definitely a must, usually I’ll bring the CDs of tracks I know for sure I’m going to use.

3. Portable recorder, I have an iTalk Pro and an iPod to do this, I always have a note book on me (and pen), mobile phone I’m using a HTC Ted Baker that doubles as a calender, phone, diary and note pad all in one, travel doc- not to be forgotten, spare undies, trust me when your flight gets delayed by 24 hours you’ll want them, sleeping tablets for the long haul, water (lots of it), business cards.

2. Locks, DJ equipment is expensive, and there’s nothing worse than getting it stolen, I also have DJ insurance for the key bits.

1. Pacemaker- this will pretty much replace my iPod, and is my new toy, its still pending but hey you know when you’re onto a good thing. This item of my DJ kit could potentially lighten my DJing load even more, and when you’re travelling light is a good thing

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musiciansfriend are a US based music company they offer a fantastic range of music products, and their DJ collection is fantastic with sections for Turntables, Audio Players, DJ Mixers & Systems, Mircophones & Wireless, Karaoke, Stage & Effects, Cables, Essential Accessories, Drums, Groove & Production Gear.

Musician’s Friend was founded in 1983 by Robert and Deanna Eastman, eventually relocating its headquarters from San Diego to a dairy barn in Southern Oregon. The founders operated the company on one major premise: to give musicians the best prices and selection, along with superior service to help musicians achieve their goals in music. Currently, Musician’s Friend offers over 36,000 products in its mail order catalogs and on its website, musiciansfriend.com. Products offered include guitars, basses, keyboards, percussion, amps, as well as recording, mixing, lighting, and DJ gear.

For most DJs getting their first setup is a big deal and to DJ music, starting out with the right music is important and you’ll find a well stocked store with excellent delivery time and great customer care here.

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gear4music are one of the internet’s top music store, naturally, they haven’t forgotten about DJs and the DJing community, notably is their fantastic range of Digital DJ computers, ideal for those looking to DJ music on the go are their range of DJ laptops, and last but not least for you sound techs, and producer types, they have some great studio equipment.

About Gear 4 Music

If you enjoy creating music you will probably need some instruments and equipment from time to time.
Our objectives are simple: We want to make purchasing and owning these items easy for you, by providing GREAT PRICES and EXCELLENT SERVICE.
We supply instruments and equipment by many of the industry’s best known manufacturers at very competitive prices, as well as our own range of fantastic value Gear4music branded instruments. Unlike some other companies, we believe in providing you with the same high level of customer service whether you purchase from our shop in York or use this web site.

As well as making fantastic savings, when you order online from us you can also:
• Book your own delivery date
• Choose from a range of delivery service options
• Receive email and text message notification regarding the progress of your order
• Enjoy a 14 day money back guarantee on everything!

gear4music have excellent customer support and deliver options and for DJs you’ll find some great help choosing the right digital platform.

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imusician offer a great range of musical equipment not just DJing equipment, but pianos and other products for music professionals.

iMusician has been created to serve the many musicians and non-musicians who need a straight-forward, no-nonsense service at very reasonable prices. We cater for both amateur and professional musicians and also those buying as total beginners. We have a dedicated team working to ensure your satisfaction and we’re always willing to answer any questions that you may have. We think that by looking after our customers, both before and after a purchase, will help to build a strong and happy relationship.

The standard UK Mainland delivery charge for each product is indicated in the grey box towards the right hand side of the product page. Orders from outside the UK Mainland will be subject to further delivery charges which will vary depending on the location.

imusician present fantastic service efficient customer support and plenty of products. You’ll probably find that for DJs and DJ music, their strength is in their good collection of digital DJing equipment. Whilst they are a part of Dawsons Music Ltd they offer special proces online, making them far or affordable then highstreet alternatives. If your just starting out DJing and looking for fairly decent affordable DJing equipment, then imusician is worth checking out.

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This is the DJ Music Blog, this is the first post, welcome and Enjoy.

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