Your Questions: As A Producer, Should I Be Hawking For DJ Gigs?

Digital DJ Tips reader Darren Yerro writes: “As a producer and DJ, I’m at the point in my career where I have a lot of streaming numbers and plays from big names for my remixes, but I’d like to use that as leverage to get my DJing career at the same level.

“Should I start from ground zero by gigging in my hometown? Expectations are high here, and I’m afraid of losing value if I start playing local. Do I need a manager? Maybe invest in Facebook promotions for brand development and let management find me? What would you suggest?”

Digital DJ Tips Says:

Successful producers have the opportunity to use their notoriety and online fanbase as leverage to initially gain DJ bookings and ease venue worries about crowd turn out. The vital first step needed to acquire DJ success, though, is putting yourself out there. Just start gigging – locally, in the next town, wherever! Playing local shows can help add value to your brand, as those crowds could turn into lifelong fans who advocate for you well into your career.

Knowing how to read a crowd is difficult for some producers who exclusively receive online feedback for their music, with little to no tangible immersion. DJing in public lets you test the crowd’s collective response to your tracks in real-time. The best way to improve crowd reading skills is lots and lots of gigs. When the productions blow up and the offers come in, you’re ready.

Hiring a manager depends on the individual performer, though you might need one if you fit any of these categories. Social media can help anyone trying to develop their brand, so definitely not a bad idea if you’re willing to invest in promotions, though success can happen the old-fashioned, word of mouth way too. We recommend a good mixture of both, while trying not to spread anything too thin. Start small, be extra great at a few things, and grow from there.

Any thoughts on how to leverage your success as a producer to book DJ gigs? Do you have a good online following, but no gigs? Let us know what you think in the comments.