DJ Party Preparation : Music Organization

One of the biggest mistakes a Dj can make is not preparing effective sets (dj mixes) for a party. Even though a dj may have a million songs, it doesn't make a dj a "good" dj. Be effective by being prepared. Keep reading to find out how.

Digitally Storing and Organizing Music

A digital dj stores songs in crates (playlist folders) on an external hard drive, iPod/iPad, or laptop. This is smart. I actually don't know a dj who doesn't organize all their music for easy access. It's easier for a beginner dj, who may not have many set lists or dj mixes, but as time passes and the song database increases, organizing the music correctly becomes more challenging and more important.

Event Types

While preparing set lists and good mixes for an event, a dj needs to take a few things into consideration for the mixes. The first thing to consider is what type of event will the dj be entertaining. Popular events are Weddings, Sweet 16s, Bar-bat Mitzvahs, Birthday Parties, Corporate events, Holiday Parties, Class Reunions, Club events, Kids Parties, etc. Each event may require different styles of music and mixes.

Client Song Request "Must-Plays"

The second factor to take into consideration is the songs requested from the client. I have done wedding receptions where the bride had requested 15 songs on her "must-play" list, and I did another event where the couple requested 87 songs on their "must play" list. Obviously, I couldn't play all 87 of their songs and I let them know that, BUT it is important to play as many of those "must play" songs as possible that will fit in the (set-lists) mixes.

It's Ok To Say No

As a professional dj would know what types of mixes that work at specific events, a client most likely would not know how and where songs would fit or even if it is appropriate. It's ok for the dj to recommend certain song requests not be played at their event. 99% of the time the client will understand. If the client requests a song like "Respect" by Aretha Franklin and the DJ says it may not fit, the DJ needs to rethink their career as a dj. If the client requests a song like the "Chicken Dance" at a Corporate Event, the DJ may suggest a different song, as we all know adults may not appreciate dancing to the "Chicken Dance".........ever. After discussing this with the client the dj is prepared to start putting the event set-lists together.

Homework?

Since every event is different and clients request different songs a Dj needs to do some homework to compile appropriate set lists and mixes. As Clients have the right to request songs on a "Must Play" list, they also have a right to request songs on their "Do No Play" list. This means, the Dj has to make sure all of the songs on the clients "do not play" list are removed from the master mix list.

Create New Crates (playlist folders)

If the client requests a lot of songs, the easiest things to do is create new crates for every party, adding the songs from the "must-play" list to genre labeled folders, and then adding appropriate songs from the Dj's database. If the client has a small request list, create a new folder specifically for those songs so they may be easily found.

Don't Under Plan

The most common length of a party is 4 hours. That's a lot of music if there are no formalities (speeches, candle lightings, cake cut, presentations etc.) Always plan on providing 4 hours of music for a 4 hour event. Running out of music to mix mid-way through the event will cause the dj to scramble for music and may choose awkward songs.

Start Strong and Finish Strong

The Dj will need a good variety of music to mix. If it's not a kid party, adults will be expecting some good party songs to enjoy and possibly to dance to. A popular way a dj starts a party is with upbeat introduction music while guests are entering the party. This will set the mood for the event. Avoid dark or music in minor keys while guests are arriving. Keep the tempo moving at a faster/upbeat pace unless meals are being served and everyone is sitting down. Have some slow songs prepared to play at events like Weddings, Anniversaries, or events where couples are attending. Always end the night by picking up the tempo again and playing upbeat music.

Organization Is Key

Crates (playlist-folders) will help keep the dj's stress level down to a minimum when planning the music for an event. it is common for Djs to organize their mixes in either chronological folders and/or genre folders; 60's, 70's, 80's. 90's 2000, Oldies, Motown, Disco, Funk, Slow Dance Music, Group dances, Latin, Club, Techno, House, Trance, etc.

Mixes That Work

There are tens of thousands of songs to choose from each time period and genre. The key is choosing the right songs and playing mixes that work. It's important to know what song sounds great after a certain song. A successful dj not only keeps people on a dance floor but gravitates other guests as the mix continues.

Song Transitions and Beat Mixing

Some songs are really good and some songs are great. Plan on playing the mainstream "great songs from different eras" at popular events. People attending these events, in general, love to hear the classics. They like to sing along and dance to songs they are familiar with. It's also important to transition smoothly from your songs whether it's a good cross-fade or beat-mix.

Dj'ing With Confidence

In order for a Dj to be confident in planning for an event, the DJ' should have a good place to go for mixing resources. There are sites available that a dj can visit to get proven mixes that work for any event.

Resources

Learn How to DJ at http://www.howtodjpro.com and get your FREE Newsletter INCLUDING Party Set-Lists, dance mixes, top songs info, links to equipment prices and reviews, and so much more to ensure maximum success and quality for DJ's at all levels. Don't be left behind your competition! My name is John peterson (DJ Masterminds) and my focus is your dj'ing success!