Mobile Disco DJing
A Mobile disco DJ can be a lucrative and fun job, whether you planning to do it full or part-time.
The main job of a mobile DJ is to “get the party going”. You will need to supply the music, sound equipment and be able to work with the client to make the party successful. Mobile DJs typically perform at weddings, school dances, birthday parties, house parties, corporate functions, fashion shows and other social events. In fact there are countless business opportunities for a mobile DJ.
The first thing you will need to do is find a reputable mobile DJ that is willing to help you get started. The best way to learn is by watching the pros do it! If you can’t find anyone, a DJ school will able to teach you how to use the equipment and basic DJ techniques but the best way to learn is on a practical level.
Buying a name brand is important but it is not necessary to buy the most expensive gear on the market.
Start by helping out other DJs. Offer to help them with their equipment and watch them. Mention that you would also like to be a DJ. Many DJs use digital equipment so start to learn how it works, how they interfact with clients and what kind of events they do.
If you have a friend or family member that is a DJ then ask them if you can practice on their equipment. If not, then you will have to save up to buy your own. Buying your own equipment is the best option as hiring equipment will become expensive. Start with CD players and a DJ mixer. Then, next on your list should be a decent disco speakers and an amplifier. Buying the best equipment will deplete your saving quite a bit but it will pay off in the long run. Before buying any equipment though, make sure you know what the equipment you are buying has to offer. Buying a name brand is important but it is not necessary to buy the most expensive gear on the market. The reality is that, especially as a mobile disco DJ, you won’t get to use the equipment to its full capability. Lighting is also an essential part of a mobile disco DJ’s gear. Ask your local sound and lighting shop, such as Sound and Light City for the best and most affordable lighting for your needs.
Music is another essential part of the mobile disco DJ’s arsenal. Most DJs have been collecting music for years. When starting off as a DJ, this can be a daunting task! Probably the best way is to use the internet to find the top songs for each year for the past 50 years from billboards or any other charts. Make lists of the top 200 – 300 songs from each decade and acquire the music either by CD or through online stores. Make sure you music collection covers a variety of genres, from pop to rock, especially for music from the 90’s onwards as more and more genres are surfacing today than ever before. Keep you music updated and always make sure you have the latest hits to avoid embarrassing moments while you are DJing.
DJ for friends. This is a great place to start As you get more jobs or as you get better you can start charging for your services. Marketing is always difficult and your friends are your biggest form of advertising. So are your past clients. The best form of marketing is word of mouth. When you play for friends and family make sure they keep you in mind and recommend you when ever they get the opportunity. There is always someone looking for a mobile disco DJ for a birthday party, wedding or house party. You can also create a website and market yourself through sites like MySpace and Facebook or DJSA.
It is very important to make use of contracts! If it’s in writing and it’s agreed upon, then it’s real. Contracts help both parties understand what is expected and eliminate a lot of misunderstanding. People who are reluctant to commit in writing are often shady folk and you should not deal with them.
