Panic-Proof Your DJ Performances
Dominate Your DJ Sets By Mastering Your Mindset
Hello again fellow platter maneuverers
One of the things I always used to struggle with when I played out was getting in the right mindset to perform.
What will the crowd be like?
Will they like my bangers?
What if I mess up?
Well, the truth is sometimes they didn’t like my bangers. Sometimes I didn’t even like my bangers 😬. And I often did mess up.
This used to leave me feeling pretty bad. It also used to fill me with dred and indigestion before a gig. At times it made me never want to touch a deck again. Unless it was in the garden.
But, over time I learnt a few hacks to mentally prepare before my set so that I was able to adapt and recover without panicking (most of the time).
I want to share a few of the things I used to do to help me get ready to play out and deal with anything.
5 things to do before your gig
1. Embrace Your Inner Zen Master: Find Your DJing Zen Zone
Take a moment to channel your inner Zen master before the gig. Whether it's practicing meditation, doing some deep breathing exercises, or simply indulging in a pre-gig dance party with your cat, find what helps you achieve a state of calm. That’s why most festival headliners are buddhist monks .
2. Power Up with Your DJ Fuel: Nourish Your Body, Rock the Decks
Fuel up before your gig with the right food and drinks. Skip the greasy fast food and opt for something that will give you sustained energy. Grab a balanced meal or a snack that's packed with protein and fiber. And don't forget to stay hydrated with water. If you are in this for the long term, I recommend skipping the booze.
3. Dress for Success: Suit Up in Your DJ Superhero Costume
Put on your favorite DJ outfit and transform into the superhero of the decks! Dressing in a way that makes you feel confident can have a remarkable impact on your mindset and performance. Let’s be honest, for most DJs that means putting on a black t-shirt.
4. Connect with Your DJ Tribe: Seek Support from Fellow DJs
Reach out to your DJ friends or fellow artists who understand the excitement and nerves that come with gigs. Share your pre-gig thoughts, exchange funny stories, or even seek advice if needed. Having a supportive DJ community can provide a sense of camaraderie and reassurance that you're not alone in this crazy DJ journey. Our community page on the YouTube channel is a great place to meet and chat with others.
5. Laugh it Off: Embrace the Funny Side of DJing
Laughter is the best medicine, even for pre-gig jitters! Don't take yourself too seriously. Embrace the funny moments and mishaps that come with being a DJ. Remember that even the biggest names in the industry have had their fair share of slip-ups. After all, music is about having fun, right? That and CASH 🤑
You’ve RUINED Your DJ Transition - 7 Tips To Fix It FAST
Every DJ train wrecks their transitions from time to time. Even your favourite big-name DJs do it more regularly than you might think. Fortunately there are some easy tricks to escape a bad mix and get back on track.
Check out my latest video where I show you how to recover from a bad mix faster than a wasp on the way to a child’s birthday party 🐝
The Link Loop
🔗 Interesting reads for people that twiddle knobs
DJ Mag Top 100 Clubs Poll - Printworks only number 2…controversial
Visual Vinyl - This looks great for those learning how to scratch. It has a waveform right on the wax!
Other news
I’ve mentioned before that I’m currently learning to scratch. I’ve been working on my 1-click flares. I’m pleased to report they now sound slightly passable! If anyone has any tips on nailing them, let me know.
Longer term readers may notice this newsletter now actually has a name - HotCue DJ! I never wanted this to just be about me, so it felt like the right time to give it it’s own title.
Exciting news! We're now using Substack as our email provider. No need to worry, though. You'll keep receiving the newsletter as usual. The best part? You can now access all our past newsletters online too! Don't forget to check out our updated privacy policy.