You can own the best DJ equipment in the world, however if you don't choose the right DJ Mixes songs for each event, you'll be useless. From millions and millions of songs to choose from, how do you know what songs to play at each event. How many times have you gone to a party and heard songs that just baffle you? Don't be "that" DJ.
You need to understand your clientele. Music is different all around the country and all around the world so I can't tell you which DJ Mixes to play, however I can help direct you in the right direction. Luckily, pop music and popular artists are pretty universal. Generally sticking with popular artists at any event will be a safe bet. Of course you'll need to find out the musical preference of the client.
"Pop artists" is still a bit too general to help you gauge what to play for your DJ Mixes. While Popular Club music might go over great for a Wedding in a metropolitan area, Pop Country music might be more appropriate for a Wedding in the middle of America. Furthermore, while Trance/Techno music is great for Night Clubs, it's probably not a good idea to play this type of music at a 50th Birthday Party.
How do you know what type of music to play then? Honestly, use common sense. You know the demographics and the most popular genre of music in your areas better than me. If you still have no idea, find out about the local popular radio station and listen to it for a while. I live in the New York City Area and I understand how important it is to own a lot of the popular songs on the radio.
Usually the songs that are played on the radio stations in my area are also found on iTunes top songs list. I always make sure that I have most of the top songs from iTunes, unless I really think the song stinks. I keep my parties clean, so I don't usually download anything with inappropriate language for any of my DJ mixes.
When I DJ any type of Teen party/dance, many of the top iTunes songs usually serve as a pretty good play list. When I am doing a party for teens and adults, like a bar-bat Mitzvah, I'll play a mix of current pop music and then a mix some older classics for the parents, which I'll get into a little later. At parties like Bar/Bat Mitzvahs you'll probably have just an many adults as kids, so try to accommodate the parents while the kids are off playing games or eating.
Another music trick that may accommodate both adults and kids/teens is to get a list and play songs from Guitar Hero and Rock Band. Because of these popular video games, I am finding that many kids are more versed on classic rock songs that some adults. Some songs may not be appropriate to include in your DJ Mixes. You'll find bands like The Who, Bon Jovi, ACDC, Boston, Queen, and more! If you don't want to choose the exact songs from Guitar Hero or Rock Band, consider playing other popular songs from these artists.
When you are deciding on songs to include in your DJ Mixes, consider your guests and work from there. For Kids/Teens/Young Adults it's pretty safe to go with recent Top 40 songs. If you are playing to adults, play some current songs and find a playlist of top 100 songs of all times. If you are playing to a mix of all ages, don't be afraid to play Top 40 Songs and Top songs from all time. There are lists for all types of music! If you are considering playing at a Club, first find out what type of music they might prefer (i.e. house, techno, trance, lounge, electronic, etc.) and then fill your music database with that type of music.
My final and most important suggestion is to check with the client. They are usually happy to discuss the event with you and recommend certain Genres and Style so you can create the perfect DJ Mixes for the party.
Learn How to DJ the professional way at http://www.howtodjpro.com/ and get your FREE Newsletter INCLUDING Party Set-Lists, dance mixes, top songs info, links to equipment prices and reviews, and so much more to ensure maximum success and quality for DJ's at all levels. Don't be left behind your competition! My name is John peterson (DJ Masterminds) and my focus is your dj'ing success!
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