Questions about a career as a music dj

Question

(As in weddings, parties, etc.)

What abilities, interests, work values, and person characteristics are necessary and/or helpful to have?

What is the average salary?

Is post-secondary schooling necessary?

Was it necessary for you to move to go to school or find a job as a DJ?

What kind of risks are involved in this career?

What is the job outlook like in this career?

Does post-secondary schooling qualify you for immediate employment, or is more training necessary?

Answer 1

I been doing DJin 4 over 10 years (mostly clubs & parties)

1. U have to be pretty out going to do things like weddings and receptions because its high energy work.  Got to be friendly and good on the mic.

2. Salary depends on the gig...but I always tell people dont get into it for the money.  I use to do shows & sets for free because I love spinnin then I started getting paid 100 here & there.  Now I can make up to 600 a night (4 hours).  I also do Part time work for a company and the ladies pays like 45.50 an hour.

3. I never went to school for DJin, I just followed dudes I knew who were Dj's around, carrin crates until I got my own turntables and then practiced like crazy

4. I live outside D.C. (like 2 min. away) and like 30 mins. from B-more, so I didnt have to move.  There is always work.

5. Risk involved - U have lots of expensive equipment that could get damaged or robbed.  Im out late late sometimes.  U got to be ready to put something out there even thou you may get booed ( Everyones get booed sometimes)

6. Outlook is good.  There is always goona be a prom or a dance or a party.  U just got to fit yourself in to the right circle and practice to stay there.

7. I got a B.S. degree but I learned how to DJ in my bedroom after working at Burger King all day.  I only know two guys that DJ full time.  The rest of us have a day job.  I suggest you go to school, find a career and DJ as a hobby.  If you like it or/and get good at it take it to the people...if not so be it.

U need two things to DJ, money & time.

Money - Equipment is expensive, turntables, mixers, amps, mics, speakers, GAS, got to have a big truck/Suv to carry the stuff., music, records pools...etc.

Time- If you want to be good u have have to have an ear for music and know how to mix, spin, drop, scratch and it takes time.(some longer then others) Plus if you during a show its an all night affair.

Hope I was helpful.