So you want to be able to DJ like a pro, but it's hard to know where to start, it's hard to know what to practise, and it's hard to know if you're getting better.

This proven five-step formula, first popularised in our book Rock The Dancefloor! (which has now reached its second edition and is a global bestseller), is your answer.

Each of the five steps in this teaching method identifies an area to work on. When you work in all areas, it has a "multiplier effect". By approaching your DJing hobby this way, you’ll get noticeably better – fast – and you’ll have more fun doing so. You’ll find you’re never stuck for something to do, and your progress will be obvious, not least to you!

Here we're going to look at step one, which is the gear, before moving on to look at the next four steps in order (the order is important).

This is the "geeky stuff". It's no surprise that DJing attracts its fair share of nerds, and I do mean that in a nice way. Here at the school, we have a disproportionately high number of IT workers and technology fans among our students.

However, this isn't everyone. And the gear (which also includes the software nowadays) can be a very scary area if it's not something you're naturally drawn to or feel you easily understand. Especially nowadays, this can be a real obstacle. And yet without basic knowledge here, you're in trouble before you've even begun, because basic competence, understanding and confidence in this area is necessary to progress as a DJ.

Enjoy the show!

As ever, this pod is supported 100% by the students of Digital DJ Tips. If you enjoy it and you can, please do give us a five-star rating on Apple Podcasts. It really does make a difference.

TIMESTAMPS

0:00 Intro

0:14 Episode overview

0:55 Why this step matters

3:11 Tip #1 - Read the manual

5:46 Tip #2 - DJ on something new

7:44 Tip #3 - Switch off DJing "aides"

9:30 Bonus tip - Move past the gear

Want to get your question answered on an episode of this podcast? Digital DJ Tips course owners get to ask questions in their student-only group. Your first step to getting involved is to buy a DJ course, so come and join our community at https://www.digitaldjtips.com.