A DJ (or disk jockey) uses samples to make dance music or just plays recorded music to the audience. This person can be met at both small and big events. Most DJs say they've chosen this job because they are passionate about music. Naturally, it's also important to have an ear for music and be able to hear and highlight unique sounds.

There are many different courses and schools for those who have chosen DJing as their career. However, it doesn't mean that you must spend your savings on them. The following guide will teach you how to get started as a DJ.

Learn About DJing

Learning more about DJing will help you decide whether you want to focus on analog or digital music. 

• Analog music

In this case, you'll need the best direct drive turntable that can be pretty expensive, but it's worth the price: most DJs agree that turntables provide the best sound quality. Because vinyl records can only be found in specific areas such as specialty shops, thrift stores, trade fairs, auction websites, and so on, vinyl-based DJs choose music more carefully and pay more attention to their collection.

• Digital music

DJs who prefer to work with digital music have a very big music library that contains thousands of compositions. They are always aware of the latest trends in the music industry. 

You also should be aware of the types of DJs to choose the right path in this profession. 

• Club DJs. This is the most common type. Club DJs work in various clubs and mostly use vinyl. Their main purpose is to make the crowd dance and keep it in a cheerful mood. Club DJs also perform at festivals.

• Performers of "Turnbalists." These are the DJs with a solid reputation. They make their own shows that people come to watch just to see them perform, and they are well-known for their frequent scratching technique.
• Radio DJs. They work as radio hosts, announcing songs in their own unique style and adding some personality to the process. Radio DJs also pick songs and artists for their listeners.

• Mobile DJs. This type of DJ performs at a variety of events, including weddings, parties, business events, and others. They use their own equipment and should be ready to adapt to the wishes of the client. Sometimes this involves working with a ready playlist.

Get Your First DJ Equipment

You won't have to spend a fortune before you begin working professionally. In reality, you may begin DJing with just your laptop to use DJ software and record your mixes. However, some additional hardware will give you more control over the process. As a result, you may want to consider purchasing the following items:

• DJ Controller Setup 

When handling controls in music software, you can attach a controller to your laptop to replace a mouse and keyboard. This greatly improves convenience. The bare minimum for such a gadget is $100.

• CDJ Setup

CDJ setups cost more than DJ controller setups. They are present in nightclubs, fests, and any other venue where DJs perform. They were originally used to play music from CDs. Modern models play music from USB devices and do not need to be connected to a laptop.

• Turntable

As previously stated, DJs that prefer analog sound use vinyl record players. Previously, such devices used to be incredibly expensive. Now, they are accessible for people on a budget as well. However, keep in mind that vinyl records are more difficult to mix, so if you've chosen this format, be prepared for challenges.

Learn Some Basic DJing Skills and Record Your First Mix

Explore the internet for free or low-cost software that can help you learn basic DJing abilities like beatmatching, phasing, EQing, and so on. You also can sign up for some courses for DJs. 

This will be more than enough for beginners to broaden their knowledge. DJ applications with additional features are typically used by professionals.

Make a recording of your unique mix that you'd like to perform in front of an audience. You'll have to build and record a lot of mixes in the future until you get your "banger." You are now free to experiment to see how different things work. Also, don't be afraid to make mistakes!

Find Your Audience And Perform 

Of course, if you don't care about fame and just want to have fun, this isn't for you. However, if you want to find your audience, you need to share and advertise your mixes. Here are some tips for those who want to establish their own fan base.

Share your music on the web

There are numerous services where you may safely submit your music without concern of copyright infringement. Most frequently, they allow other users to find your mixes by the name of tracks you used as a base. You can also resort to live streaming. Whatever way you choose, just make sure to use all the helpful tools: description, tags, or even personal art that you can create or buy to make your mix stand out for better promotion.

Use social media to promote yourself

Social media is a charge-free approach to market oneself. These tips can help you spread the word about your art:

• keep on making content to not let the audience forget about you
• interact with your followers to make the social network's algorithm work for you
• do not post your mixes only; create text posts, let your audience know about your personality, your favorite music, idols, arts that inspire you, and so on
• make friends with other DJs to share experiences and find new followers

Before you begin performing, make sure to gather all the feedback from your audience and friends and correct all the mistakes.