Disc Jockey

Overview

Who is Disc Jockey?

A disc jockey usually referred to as a DJ, is a person who prepares and plays recorded music for an audience. Each of their works focuses on a specific type of music, such as jazz, R&B, country music, Rock and Roll (including metal), Bollywood, etc. In addition, they often produce fresh arrangements of the previously created tunes in order to ensure that the audience is always on its feet, dancing and enjoying the rhythms throughout the performance. Radio stations and even music broadcasts often hire DJs to reach the most significant number of people possible via advertising and entertainment sectors. They are also often very interested in pop culture, sports, and politics, among other things. DJs are usually required to work till the week hours in the morning since their work environment includes parties, clubs, events, weddings, and other nighttime gatherings.

Typical day at work

What does Disc Jockey do?

A disc jockey, more commonly abbreviated as DJ, is a person who plays recorded music for the audience. DJs are employed mainly by radio stations, where they host programmes, chat shows, and chart shows.

A disc jockey always keeps in mind his/her target audience when selecting the music to be played and often has a list of song requests given to them by the person or company that hired him/her.

• Combine genres and tracks with the help of equipment such as turntables, mixers, graphic equalisers, tape decks and other sound processers
• Ensure that program is running smoothly and is on air based on time limits
• Hold various radio contests, question callers, and take interviews
• Take song requests from the listeners and audience
• Provide updates on the weather forecast and traffic jams in the areas
• Supply music and sound system services at events
• Select tracks to be played based on target audience’s taste and venue policy
• Play and mix records to create atmosphere and keep audience dancing
• Operate lighting and visual effects in time to the beat
• Develop new sounds by manipulating beats, using samples, additional music, and sound effects
• Collaborate with an MC who raps or sings over the music
• Operate studio equipment and software to play music, pre-recorded news, jingles and advertisements
• Formulate scripts and develop playlists for shows

Abilities & aptitude needed

What are the skills, abilities & aptitude needed to become Disc Jockey?

It is essential for a DJ to feel comfortable and confident while playing in front of an audience. Consequently, they must also have social perceptiveness abilities to be aware of and comprehend the emotions of their audience members. In addition, auditory awareness and attention are required to distinguish between sounds that change in pitch and volume and maintain concentration on a single source of sound in the face of distracting noises.

Manual and finger dexterity is another vital talent to have, and it refers to the ability to move your hands and fingers in a coordinated manner with your fingers. To recall each song's voice, melody, and rhythm, one must also have memorising solid abilities. They must also be well-versed in current worldwide music trends and the capacity to develop their music, tracks, and lyrics. DJs must also be able to communicate, comprehend, and generate new ideas to be successful. They must be able to think rapidly and creatively and exercise sound judgment and decision-making abilities to come up with the appropriate melody, instrument, and lyrics for a specific composition. Promoters, talent buyers, and other DJs for possible job and partnership opportunities and knowledge of social media platforms are essential for building a fan base. Finally, to keep up with the commitments of live performances, it is vital to have a lot of passion as well as a certain level of technical ability.

Courses

Which course I can pursue?