Behind the Scenes: What It’s Like Starting Out as a DJ

I’m not DJing massive parties or packed dancefloors—yet.

However, I’ve officially stepped into the world of DJing: it’s exciting, sometimes overwhelming, and honestly, super cool with how awesome the community of people that come with started this journey (so far, they are so nice and super supportive!).

Current Status: I’m on my uni holidays, and just moved out of home into a new city [full of big opportunities] —and that’s both thrilling and a bit intimidating. There’s so much ahead, but I have to remind myself to take it step by step, without rushing or setting unrealistically high expectations. Definitely realised how important it is to take it easy, and take little steps to get closer to the dream. Large steps can be overwhelming and create unrealitic daily or weekly expectations on yourself.

So yeah, this is my kind of ‘behind-the-scenes’ stuff. The real, not-so-glamorous parts that happen before I play my first paid gig outside of the DJ academy. Shoutout to Michael with his biz Front Left Academy!

If you're someone who’s curious about what it’s like to start from scratch—or maybe you’re thinking of doing the same—this one’s for you my dude.

🎧 Learning the Craft (One Awkward Transition at a Time)

At first, I ACTUALLY thought DJing would be pressing play, mixing songs, and hoping for the best.
But my god…it is a propr craft and practice. Just like any profession, you have to put in the hours of searching for the right resources (music) to build an effective workspace (DJ set) to please the crowd.

I’ve been learning a lot:

• Beatmatch so songs flow smoothly together (it’s way harder than it looks)

• Transition without cutting the vibe or making it noticable…practice is the cure for this.

• Build playlists that develop a whole atmosphere. Remember, no matter where you are, you are setting the energy & you are shaping the memories people are making at that location - are you making that sunset feel a little extra euphoric? or that first kiss feel like a dream? or setting the tone for girls night? People are listening.

• Understand the energy of a crowd - warm it up before hitting that bangers or the crowd pleasers.

Most of it is trial and error. Some mixes slap. Some flop. But practice session teaches me something new.

Gear, Playlists, and Planning (AKA the nitty-gritty Stuff)

I’ve been building different playlists for different genres:

• Poolside House

• UK Garage

• Hype House with Mainstream or Nostalgic songs

• Thinking about starting up a list of RNB mixes…but i dont know yet

I have minimal gear at the moment. Tiny Pioneer DDJ-200 to practice on with my macbook laptop. Still something I can work with & I go into local studios to hire out DJ equipment to practice on bigger Pioneer gear, that will likely be used at big events.

The Confidence Game

No one really talks about how scary it feels to start something completely new - especially when you are doing something in public view…and everyone is just staring at you. Lol.

Even just practicing in front of friends can make me nervous. What if I mess up? What if they don’t vibe with the songs? What if I hit the wrong button and stop the music altogether? Is my set recording trash?

The more I push through those feelings, the more confident I get.

Every small win builds me up—like nailing a mix I’ve been practicing or seeing someone nod along to a song I chose. It is the best feeling. You learn to smile and enjoy your set.

What’s Next?

Living in a new city = big opportunities — however success doesn’t come overnight (unless you literally become viral). I have to remember to take it step by step, celebrate small wins, and not rush myself or expect too much too soon. Keep growing, learning, and sharing what I love. No idea where my next set will be…but that’s also kind of cool.

FINAL THOUGHTS

You don’t wake up one day and become a DJ.

You become a DJ by showing up, even when you’re nervous, even when no one’s watching, even when your set is just for your own living room…but the bigger picture is there.

I haven’t had my first big moment yet—but when it comes, I’m going for it.

If you’re planning a party, event, or just want to have someone fresh on —I’d love to be part of the fun.