As an aspiring DJ preparing for your first gig, it’s a given you’ve got sweaty palms and a racing heart. Even though all eyes are on you, you know you’ve got plenty of great music that will get everyone dancing for hours. However, there are several things that must be done to guarantee success. If you’re a beginning DJ and want to make sure your first gig is one to remember, here’s how you can make it happen.
One of the biggest mistakes most beginning DJs make is trying to do too many gigs close together. Rather than do this, spend plenty of time practicing solely for your first gig. Have at least three days to practice everything you plan to do, making sure you have your layout and routine in order.
If there’s one thing that can ruin a DJ gig, it’s not having the equipment needed for the evening’s festivities. Along with getting plenty of adapters, plugs, and extension cords from a site like Americord, make sure the turntables, mixing equipment, microphones, and other equipment are all pieces you’re very familiar with as to how they work.
As all DJs know, having a Plan B is a necessity for success. Inevitably, there will be a time when the laptop will crash or a microphone will malfunction. If this happens on your first gig, having a Plan B will ensure the evening will still be filled with fun and excitement.
To make sure you can run a sound check, set up your equipment, and get familiar with your surroundings, show up at least two hours early. By doing so, if you have any unexpected problems, you’ll have enough time to fix them.
By knowing the type of music your audience likes and expects you to play, you’ll take a big step toward success. Therefore, use your outgoing personality, showmanship, and ability to put on a spectacular show to keep the crowd wanting more as the evening progresses. By doing this, chances are as soon as your first gig is finished, you’ll be lining up many more.
Once you get that first show under your belt, the process will get easier with each performance. By believing in yourself and being committed to putting on the best possible show for your audience, you’ll have plenty of success in the years ahead.