Behind the Mic: DJ Promotion

posted in: Features

There are countless articles giving advice to bands and solo artists on promotion, marketing, performance and more, but rarely is this advice given specifically to DJs.

So how does a DJ get their name out there in order to get their music heard? How can they secure jobs at bars, clubs and parties? This week, we’re going to give some pointers to those of you behind the turntable.

Once you have a suitable mix tape on CD”aim to have at least three or four songs”you want to get it in as many hands as possible. It’s absolutely crucial that you label your CD with your name, Web site and email address before giving a copy to anyone. As the saying goes, you never know who people know! If your music is enjoyable, people will show their friends, who will show their friends and so on. You never know who will end up hearing your music, so make sure people can contact you easily!

Get a head start on your career by offering to spin at a friend’s party or throwing a party of your own. It’s the easiest way to show off your skills and start to get your name out there, while also getting practice for your live performance.

You should also do some research on music blogs that host mix tape streaming. Sites for underground DJs are extremely popular, so having your music posted on one of these blogs gives you the potential to reach a large audience. And like any other musician, you should also have artist accounts on Facebook, MySpace and OurStage!

Once you have a solid amount of experience under your belt, you’ll want to secure a set at a bar or nightclub. The DJ plays a very important role in terms of promotion for dance clubs, so you should be on the top of your game in this area, especially. If a DJ can help bring in a draw to a club on their own, they will instantly be more valuable to that club. Having friends who are successful DJs can also come in handy, as they’ll be able to vouch for your abilities to clubs who don’t yet know you. When you feel ready, send out or deliver your music with a press kit to as many places as possible.

When you’re hired, you can impress the club by doing as much self-promotion as possible. Make high-quality flyers and post them around town and in the club where you’ll be spinning. As it is for bands, you’ll need to prove yourself in your area by showing that you have the talent to draw a crowd of people to come see your set.

DJs, put your spin on this advice! What promotion tactics have worked for you in the past?