Various Types Of Djs: Which One Is You?

We know that when you scroll into our articles, you may want to research DJ careers, get some ideas about them, or want to step one foot into the world of DJ. However, you may find difficulties knowing the types of DJs to determine which DJ you like or want to become. 

Some people think that being a DJ is simple; you simply have to press play, adjust some knobs, and produce a song. However, you will never know the hard work these artists have been through, like writing songs, performing at various events, or even getting the job at small stations or parties. 

Therefore, in this article, we will make a list and explain different types of djs, some tips on becoming a DJ and help many of you distinguish between a DJ and a producer since many people mistake between these two positions. 

Now, let’s get into the article and see what we’ve got for you!

Firstly, we think that you should know what a DJ is, like in a formal way. We may know some points describing a DJ, but we want to summarize the knowledge for you. 

What Is A DJ?

types of djs

I know you are familiar with the DJ image, standing on the stage with all spotlights shining on them, adjusting knobs, wearing headphones, and screaming “Hands up!” with all the audience. 

Have you ever wondered where the music came from? Well, it had already been recorded before they went to the parties. Therefore, to summarize, the DJ is a person who plays already-recorded music to the audience. 

For your information, the term DJ is an abbreviation of disc jockey, a radio station presenter spinning the turntables’ vinyl record. 

Nowadays, there are still DJs using the turntables, in contrast with others utilizing DJ software with many outstanding features about playback, crossfading, and so much more. 

If you want to become radio station DJs, it’s okay. There are still plenty of them out there. However, the DJ career has now shifted into concerts, festivals, parties, bars, and nightclubs because of the innovative technology. 

If you are afraid of standing in front of many people, to be the center of the attention, there are Internet DJs that produce playlists for streaming services on the Internet.

Now, we think that’s up to this point; you have already obtained full knowledge about what a DJ is; you may wonder if a DJ and a producer are the same. You think that because, in some scenarios, they can be used interchangeably. However, in the DJ world, these positions have different meanings. 

The Difference Between DJs And Producers

As we’ve mentioned before, a DJ is a person playing already-recorded music for the audience. And their ingredient is original songs from various artists.

Some DJs may use the turntables to manipulate sounds from an existing record, add new effects, beats to reconstruct an original record to an entirely different one. Others will do the same but using their DJ digital software. It’s up to them.

In general, you simply should know that a DJ will transform other people’s finished songs and recordings. They are only the remixes owners, not the original ones. 

On the other hand, a producer is a person who creates original music. They are the owner of that song or record. It’s pretty different from the DJ, right? 

However, these two definitions can overlap in hip-hop and dance music production because some DJs are producers and producers are DJs. 

These people are considered producer DJs. And their jobs are to produce music from the existed sampling records. Cool, right? And they play significant parts in the DJ industry today; you may know some names like Martin Garrix, Calvin Harris, etc. 

We hope that after this section, finally, you know the differences between DJs and producers. Therefore, it’s time to move to the most crucial areas in this article, types of djs. 

Different Types of DJs

According to our research, there are six types of DJs today in the market. Each DJ type will have its different opportunities, weaknesses, and requirements to step into the career. 

Therefore, this section will guide you on what you should do as a beginner in this journey. 

Club DJs

types of djs

Firstly, we have the club DJs. If you want to both build your networks and practice DJ skills simultaneously, the club DJ position is the one you should be taking advantage of it. 

You will play music at public, commercial venues like nightclubs, bars, and even the opening of many festivals, using the existing club gears in many scenarios. 

Some people may stereotype that a club DJ always delivers various mixes in one or familiar genres like house, drum, bass, or techno. We can list all the familiar genres; however, it is just a waste of time, so let’s stop at these three.

But we should say that you’ve misunderstood them. The music playing depends on the venue kinds and requests, the situation you’re in, and what you think you need to play. 

Although it may depend on various criteria, the critical point here is to keep the crowd dancing and to have fun with excellent mixed songs by different DJ techniques. 

You should know that you require to work long hours, some even “open till close” occasions; therefore, you need to learn how to keep the energy flow for the venue, maintaining its fun, dynamic and energetic features. 

We are sure you will sense the pleasant feeling of turning the room from the quiet to the most eventful one. And you can fully concentrate on doing that on your DJ booth with modern sound systems. 

In general, there are three steps to become a club DJ, first, purchase equipment; second, practice; and finally, contact club owners, managers to get you resident spots and keep enhancing your skills. 

Bar DJs

types of djs

You may think the bar DJs and the club DJs are the same; however, they differ. 

The bar DJ is commonly the local DJ playing at small bars in their hometowns or other scenes. 

Like club DJ, this DJ type of playlist may depend on the bar atmosphere the owners want to express. The playlist has already been created in some bars since the bars want to attract a specific customers group.

Like club DJ, bar DJ is required to have competent DJ skills and set up a mixed set that is compatible with the bar atmosphere and requirements. 

A different point of these two positions is that most bar DJs need to bring their gear and equipment, whereas most club DJs don’t require that. However, some bars still set up the necessary equipment for their DJs; you shouldn’t worry too much!

Some people are comfortable doing DJs at bars. But if you are an ambitious person who wants to play at larger clubs with massive fans, you should take the DJ bar experience as a step to approach clubs, larger sound systems, and more people.

Mobile DJs

We know this DJ type is familiar to you, especially those who may plan to pursue a DJ career with this position. 

Some documents may separate the mobile DJ and the wedding DJ into two different categories; however, the wedding DJ is a sub-category inside the mobile one.

You should see this DJ working on several occasions like weddings, corporate parties, school, and other events. Your job is to play fewer mashups, remixes, songs showing your true colors. Instead, the playlist will be more commercially orientated. 

Before any event, your client will send you a brief listing of which music you should include in your playlist and what you should avoid. Specifically, clients will request you to play certain songs at any time of the wedding.

And unlike the club DJ, you cannot hide after your deck. Besides DJing, you will have to communicate with the guests, take song orders. You cannot just solely concentrate on yourself; you have other people to focus on. 

And your playlist needs to be diverse to accommodate the majority of guests there. Making the guests happy and the dance floors crowded are the top priority factor for the client to re-hire you.

Moreover, you will need to set up your gig and equipment and bring everything to the event. Therefore, you should try to find and buy the high-quality and necessary equipment to succeed in this position. 

We have some recommendations for you in terms of equipment:

[amazon box=”B07491JLN8″ ]

Radio DJs

types of djs

We think we are all familiar with this DJ type, right? As mentioned in the definition section, this type is the most traditional one, with a person hosting a radio station. It still exists today, but with a more modern view. 

You can still just start at an actual radio station if you want; it’s up to you. However, most DJs consider this type their side job; they can just do podcasts and streaming playlists. 

You can just post once per week; we think this is a reasonable time amount, which will help you engage and increase your number of fans, as long as you are specific about your niche market. 

But since some of you are beginners and busy searching for new opportunities, you should make a habit of posting once a month, maybe setting up a specific day for your post always to keep yourself on track. 

One thing you should remember, although the radio DJs market is coming with sufficient demand, it is highly competitive. You need to stay on top of the trends, offer unique insights to satisfy the audience. That’s the only way to survive in this industry. 

Bedroom DJs

types of djs

Some of you may hear the term “hobbyist” more often; however, the two words are the same. 

This DJ type is different from other types because its top priority is not performing in front of large crowds. Instead, they may just want people to get to know them via online platforms. 

There are many ways for them to do, but in our experience, we see that most hobbyists will upload their radio shows on Mixcloud or Youtube to share their products or knowledge. 

One thing you need to remember is that bedroom DJs are not simply beginners; they may be some retired DJs, who still want to keep practicing their skills, or some old ones who don’t perform much like before. 

We think this bedroom DJ phase is terrific; you can contribute to the music industry but still keep your music spirit alive. And thanks to technological development, you have to access the DJ world at a lower cost than before. 

Here’s the learning kit that you may be interested in it:

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Producer DJs

types of djs

Here’s our final DJ type. And we can say that it gains popularity throughout these years. If you want to pursue this type, you will get booked and play your songs at festivals and many events. 

However, the process is relatively tricky; you will need various skills sets to gain this position. Knowing the DJ skill is essential, but you have to get used to the instrument and recording equipment. 

For example, you should know all chords, record, and use the DAWs, also known as Digital Audio Workstations. 

During the time you enhance your skills, you should maintain promoting, marketing, and branding yourself. Sooner or later, people will recognize your talents and give you opportunities to play your records in a larger space. 

One obvious advantage is that you will become unique, specifically if you are a club DJ. You will stand out from the crowd by performing your tracks instead of remixing other people’s songs. 

And the money coming from the copyright and other online streaming devices may lead you to financial freedom, not to rely on too much gig fees. 

In general, you should produce just because you are in love with the thought of having your production, not because other people force you to do that. 

You don’t have to be a music producer to be a DJ. However, if you are a DJ, it is worth having producing-related skills. 

If you are still struggling with finding your DJ controller, you could consider this item:

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            Finally, we want to give you some advice on how to become a DJ.

How To Become A DJ?

Firstly, you should acquire the right and vital equipment. Some essential equipment in our perspective can be a laptop, DJ controllers, speakers, microphones, headphones, and cables. 

Secondly, you should acquire and learn to use proper DJ digital software. There is two famous software that most people use are Rekordbox and Serato DJ Pro. The option’s up to you, as long as you find the most suitable one for yourself.

Thirdly, it’s time to build an extensive music library using computers records, CDs, or digital media files. One of the most popular online platforms you can count on is Soundcloud. There are still other choices for you.

Fourthly, building up your skills is a must. You must know these crucial skills to run the turntables, master the mixing software, and learn how to beat matches. The beat match is essential for the club DJ and bar DJ to maintain the place’s energy flow.

Fifthly, build your network. Connection is the most crucial being in this industry. You should get acquainted with club managers, bar owners, wedding planners, anyone that may be able to give you a job. If you have friends, do not hesitate to help them. 

And you are finally branding yourself. You should do something to make yourself more outstanding than other DJs. You should make business cards, create online audience forums, and produce free mixtapes or podcasts to promote your skills. 

After doing all our steps, you will soon be successful in this industry with hard-working and perseverance. 

Here’s a video that can be helpful to you if you are a beginner:

Conclusions

We hope that after our article, you may know some knowledge about types of DJs. By learning styles of them, you will somehow develop a sense of following one of these paths. With some of you, it will be more than one; it’s up to you. 

With some of you who consider DJ a hobby, maybe after this article, you will want to begin your DJ journey. We are happy that we contribute a part to guiding you to do what you like. 

Finally, if you love the music industry and want to take one step into this industry, you’d better get started and keep researching. We wish you good luck! In case you haven’t found suitable equipment for you, here’s our recommendation!

Now, this is the end of the article! Thank you for staying with us till the end. Keep visiting our website to know more about different topics in daily life. 

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