This is why I enjoy DJing private parties. Normally it’s someone who has seen me before and liked what I played. They liked what I played because I enjoy the music I was playing and that energy projects onto the crowd. I give customer service the way I would want to receive it.
This makes me think about how most children’s movies have jokes or other content in them that is aimed toward adults. It’s almost like the filmmaker throwing the parents a bone for bringing their kids out. Or some folkier concerts I’ve been to where the singer suddenly transitions into a rap or R&B song. I think it’s important we read the room and make sure everyone’s having a great time (as much as we can control, of course) while also making it predominately about our target audience. I have karaoke nights that turn into dance parties, 80s-themed brunches where I play requests from the 90s, etc. I would definitely hang out at the places I’m a resident DJ/host at, as my acceptance of those gigs is generally based on it feeling like a great fit. Plus, it’s expanded my horizons a lot. The same thing with weddings and other one-off events. I get to know my clients and try to get to know their guests well enough that I can feel comfortable around them and lead them to having fun.
Now I understand what you were saying. I think this is where we DJs really need to remember that our audience isn't merely the ones on the floor. This is why, especially at weddings, I'm adamant on hitting every genre and every decade. I tell couples all the time the idea is to cycle the floor. We give every demographic what they want at least a little bit. Will the hardcore dancers get more of what they want? Likely, but that doesn't mean that the 60 somethings don't get to vibe out to Kenny's "I'm Alright". I'd rather give everyone a little something to make them happy than appease one group and ostracize another. Nice vid man. I also enjoy Barry. 🙂
I have noticed post-covid that it has been VERY difficult to get the music scene going again where I live. It feels like the mindset of people is so different now. Have you noticed this too?
I worked recently with a Take That tribute, who said exactly that they understood that some husbands have been dragged along to take that tribute, but I hope that they enjoyed the evening. Great video Brian keep up the good work.
only thing i dj for anymore is events that i can have and will have fun at..most i do for next to nothing anyway (only a rare side gig of mine).only for people i know also.high school kids that i know,the local high school wrestling team and family/friends..no weddings for this guy anymore.
The vast majority of gigs I do & have done, I really wouldn't stay long if I was a guest. As a DJ I know what needs to be played (most of the time) but that doesn't mean I like it. Maybe if I hadn't already heard the most typically requested songs a few hundred times too many already... Maybe I'd not mind so much. Personally I don't think it matters whether or not I like the music I play or not. Up to a point...
I understand. I guess what you could ask yourself, if you'd care to think about it, is IF someone who thought just like you was in a bar/club when you were playing there (someone dragged them there), is there anything you could do, as a DJ, to make it better for them? These are the kinds of things I like to think about to help make myself a better DJ. I do understand that not everyone concerns themselves with these kinds of things, though.
This is why I enjoy DJing private parties. Normally it’s someone who has seen me before and liked what I played. They liked what I played because I enjoy the music I was playing and that energy projects onto the crowd. I give customer service the way I would want to receive it.
I'm very lucky to DJ / karaoke every week that I use a couple of times a week. Great fun for all involved and those who aren't involved
This makes me think about how most children’s movies have jokes or other content in them that is aimed toward adults. It’s almost like the filmmaker throwing the parents a bone for bringing their kids out. Or some folkier concerts I’ve been to where the singer suddenly transitions into a rap or R&B song. I think it’s important we read the room and make sure everyone’s having a great time (as much as we can control, of course) while also making it predominately about our target audience. I have karaoke nights that turn into dance parties, 80s-themed brunches where I play requests from the 90s, etc. I would definitely hang out at the places I’m a resident DJ/host at, as my acceptance of those gigs is generally based on it feeling like a great fit. Plus, it’s expanded my horizons a lot. The same thing with weddings and other one-off events. I get to know my clients and try to get to know their guests well enough that I can feel comfortable around them and lead them to having fun.
Now I understand what you were saying. I think this is where we DJs really need to remember that our audience isn't merely the ones on the floor. This is why, especially at weddings, I'm adamant on hitting every genre and every decade. I tell couples all the time the idea is to cycle the floor. We give every demographic what they want at least a little bit. Will the hardcore dancers get more of what they want? Likely, but that doesn't mean that the 60 somethings don't get to vibe out to Kenny's "I'm Alright".
I'd rather give everyone a little something to make them happy than appease one group and ostracize another. Nice vid man. I also enjoy Barry. 🙂
I have noticed post-covid that it has been VERY difficult to get the music scene going again where I live. It feels like the mindset of people is so different now. Have you noticed this too?
This is a brilliant video! Made me think (and I hate that! lol)
Thanks for posting!!!
I worked recently with a Take That tribute, who said exactly that they understood that some husbands have been dragged along to take that tribute, but I hope that they enjoyed the evening. Great video Brian keep up the good work.
Same thing for any job tbh.. would people really go to Starbucks if they didn’t work there, probably not.
only thing i dj for anymore is events that i can have and will have fun at..most i do for next to nothing anyway (only a rare side gig of mine).only for people i know also.high school kids that i know,the local high school wrestling team and family/friends..no weddings for this guy anymore.
Unique post. Food for thought. Well done. Mandy was my first 45 btw.
hi mark
Just Kickin' It...naw I'd rather be DJin'.
hi robin
The vast majority of gigs I do & have done, I really wouldn't stay long if I was a guest. As a DJ I know what needs to be played (most of the time) but that doesn't mean I like it.
Maybe if I hadn't already heard the most typically requested songs a few hundred times too many already... Maybe I'd not mind so much.
Personally I don't think it matters whether or not I like the music I play or not. Up to a point...
Hanging out at Bars/Clubs as a Punter/Guest isn't my thing....Its boring (Same comment posted on FB)
I understand. I guess what you could ask yourself, if you'd care to think about it, is IF someone who thought just like you was in a bar/club when you were playing there (someone dragged them there), is there anything you could do, as a DJ, to make it better for them? These are the kinds of things I like to think about to help make myself a better DJ. I do understand that not everyone concerns themselves with these kinds of things, though.
When you like Barry Manilow, you should lie
If you actually care what others think, sure!