The DJ Music Blog

DJ Music

Posted by DJ Music on Mar 15th, 2008
2008
Mar 15





Before we get carried away going into DJ techniques and DJ equipment its important to take a look at the music, DJ music, isn’t just about, trace or progressive hose, but encompasses all genres of music, naturally you can find DJs who DJ trance, but you’ll also find country DJs and rock DJs as well.

If you’re wanting to learn how to DJ you’ll probably already have a love of music, this however, is more about educating yourself about new types of music as well as keeping you’re love of your favourite music. DJs are notorious for bringing new music to the crowd and for doing different things with current music, they are trendsetters.

So where do DJs get their hands on the latest music?
DJ charts – If you like the music of a certain DJ, you’ll probably also like the records they put in their playlist. Finding these playlists is simple- the back of albums, on the internet,etc.

Buzz charts - These are great indicators of what’s up and coming, giving a good cross section what’s making the rounds on DJ playlists.

Sales charts - These can usually be found at the larger stores or on shows like top of the pops, they show what’s already popular, But are still a good round-up of what’s out there that people like listening to.

Store charts – These usually list the records the store staff think are the big hits. You’ll probably find most of the tracks are generic and appeal to most listeners

Reviews – these can usually be found in the multitude of DJ magazines out there, and really offer personal recommendations, you’ll have to be quite selective though as they are based on the writers choice, so getting familiar with a particular author’s reviews usually helps.

Radio – this is the old sckool way of finding new music, listen to other DJs and even phone in to find out what they played, you’ll not only find new music, listen to music you love and great sets, you’ll also get a chance to hear new and different music genres as well.

Recommendations – word of mouth, they say, is the best kind of advertising, even store workers can give great recommendations as a direct result of understanding your tastes and styles, but try them out before you buy.

Hitlist – if you don’t have one, make one, and keep it with you in your wallet, note down the artists and albums as and when they hit you, cross them off as you get them.

Labels– Like DJs if you like a particular producer or record label, keep checking them out and keep tabs of their new releases.

Online forums – Just like the one here at DJ Music, these are a fantastic place to meet other DJs and music fans, and a place to share and find out more about the music you love and try out new music flavours.

Be curious – try new styles and check out obscure sections and genres, its worth checking out car boot sales, second hand shops and the grand parents loft, its those hidden gems that could help throw an otherwise generic set into something truly unique.

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