Thursday, June 30, 2011

5 Essential Promo Tips for Aspiring DJs

1. Set up a Facebook fan page. While it's fairly obvious, there are certainly a few DJs out there that haven't done this all important step yet. Once you've made a fan page, join all of the DJ themed Facebook groups you can find, then start posting comments and link to your DJ mix downloads. Comment on other people's posts, upload pictures, announce upcoming gigs... every little bit helps!

2. Try Soundcloud for delivering free mix downloads. Soundcloud.com is fantastic for many reasons, but the most obvious is their system for managing music files. They provide widgets that you can use throughout sites, basic promotion tools, download statistics and more. If you haven't already signed up, you must. If you already have a user account, don't forget to post your content regularly!

3. Promotion isn't all about online tools. Having decent DJ business cards is still a must. Pass them out at gigs or when you're checking out other DJs -- having a decent business card promoting your skills is a necessity. Don't forget all of the pertinent details like your Facebook and Soundcloud URLs. Providing several options for reaching you is key as you can't predict when someone will get around to it. The fact is, phones and email are NOT always the first point of contact, so make sure to list several options.

4. Design a cool DJ logo. There are many ways to get a good logo designed, from making trades with graphic designers that come to your gigs, hiring a professional or using free online tools. Whatever option you choose, make sure to place your logo on your FB page, website, biz card, flyers, CD cases, etc. Consistency is the key to being professional and that's what you want everyone to think... that you're a pro DJ who deserves to be taken seriously.

5. Promo CDs and downloads of your mix sets. This is a "last but not least" item as it should be obvious, but is always worth remembering. Consistently release new promo mixes (either monthly or to promote future gigs). If you like to give out physical CDs, place a business card in the paper sleeve. But don't forget to have digital versions available for free download as many folks don't like hassling with CDs anymore.

Either used separately or in combination, these promo tips can help stimulate your career. The key to success is action, so get started today!

The author is a house and breakbeat DJ and electronica producer. Read more of his work about creating DJ logos and DJ logo design.


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