Where to Purchase Tunes

Got any Jungle in guy?

One of my favourite record labels had the slogan “A DJ is only as good as his last record” and that saying still rings true to this day. If you strip things right back to the basics, then the most important thing that defines a DJ is the music that they play. 

You may be the most technically brilliant DJ in the world but if your music doesn’t capture the imagination of the most important people: those on the dance-floor then what is the point? It’s essential that you know where to buy the right tunes.

Rubadub Records

If (like me) you have opted for the tradition route of Djing with Vinyl there is no better feeling than crate digging in an independent record shop and finding a rare gem. Luckily in Glasgow we have record stores like Rubadub Records and Palais De Dance that cater for all of your vinyl needs. I’m an advocate for supporting local independent businesses so recommend you check them out either in-store or on online.

Discogs

If you no longer have a record shop in your town then you can’t go wrong with Discogs. It’s a huge music database that you can search releases and compare sellers worldwide (think Compare the Market for music). Over the years I have picked up some amazing hard to find releases from sellers all across the world for modest prices. I would recommend that you check postage costs before you order though as sometimes the postage can be more expensive that the music you are buying.

Beatport

If you have went down the MP3 route then buying tunes couldn’t be simpler, all you need to do is log on to your website of choice, make payment and you can download music instantly, isn’t technology wonderful? The biggest website is Beatport with an extensive library of music however, you can always find some obscure stuff on the smaller sites such as Juno or Djtunes. 

Happy tune hunting! 

How to Choose DJ Equipment

Technological advancements in DJing has made what was originally an expensive scene more accessible. Before CDs and MP3s became a mainstream way for people to listen to music, the only way to DJ was with Vinyl Turntables & a Mixer. Recent Innovations in DJ technology allows for individuals to choose from many different DJ setups. 

So much choice can be daunting and what you require is dependent on your own personal preference and budget. Therefore, I will discuss three of the most common formats that I have personally used.

Turntables

The purist form of DJing with Vinyl and the one that requires the most skill and patience. If you can mix competently on this format any other piece of equipment will be easy for you. In my opinion this is still the most satisfying and rewarding format to master.




The Industry Standard: Technics 1210Mk2 Price £550.00




Alternative: Pioneer PLX 500 Price £300.00

Only recommended to choose this format if you are really serious about Djing because collecting Vinyl is dangerously addictive but extremely fun! 

CDJs

CDJS are similar to turntables apart from they play CD's and MP3's instead of Vinyl. You can do some crazy things such as adding extra effects to music, playing songs backwards and have both songs 'synced' so that they are both the same speed and mixed. Although some purists argue that this has taken the skill out of DJing, there is no denying that CDJs are the most popular format for DJ's today.





The Industry Standard: Pioneer CDJ Nexus 2000 Price £1299.00






Alternative: Denon SC2900 Price £499.00

Midi Controller: Traktor S4 

The advantage of the Traktor S4 Midi controller is that everything you need to start Djing is included. A 4 channel mixer, two 'turntable's and software so you can hook up your laptop and you are good to go. By far the most cost effective and accessible format for those starting out. Recommended if you are just wanting to DJ for fun although this is a powerful piece of equipment.




Traktor S4 Price £479.00 

You can purchase all featured DJ equipment from Rubadub Records
 

Welcome to Tips & Tricks for Aspiring DJs

I’m William and after much deliberation, I’ve decided to blog about tips for aspiring DJs. As most of my friends know I’m obsessed with music and don’t go a day without listening to it. I also DJ & produce my own music which has been played on the likes of Radio 1 etc. I know how isolating it can be when you are starting out, therefore I hope my blog provides some interesting insights from someone who has been in the same position before.

My DJ Setup: Technics 1210's Mk2 Turntables, Pioneer DJM800 Mixer & Pioneer CDJ1000's.

Over the years, I have repeatedly been asked the same questions:

How did you get into DJing?

What do I need to start DJing?

Where is the best place to buy tunes from?

How do you start playing out in Clubs?

How do I get my music played out in Clubs?

Let’s start with the first question.

I got into DJing because I didn’t come from the best area growing up and wanted to focus energy into something productive. Most of my friends were going down the wrong path and I didn’t want to end up that way. I bought my first records from 23^rd Precinct in Glasgow and was a regular at the store for years and was offered a part-time job whilst in Secondary-School. I guess they wanted someone who could make Tea and do all the crappy tasks that the staff didn’t want to do. My Tea making skills must have sufficed as I was offered a full time position.

 

23rd Precinct Record Store (Now Closed) 23 Bath Street Glasgow

23^rd Precinct gave me the opportunity to network and ‘build my name’ as a DJ in Scotland, starting out by playing small nights at the Soundhaus & Archaos in Glasgow. Then I progressed to playing for larger nights in Edinburgh before being offered a residency for >>Inside Out* at the Arches in Glasgow. As a result I have played for major brands & festivals like Godskitchen, Gatecrasher, Digital Society, Goodgreef & Colours as well as playing in Ibiza, Mexico & Miami.

Next time, I’ll run through what equipment is needed to start Djing.