Young DJs

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

I'm interested to know people's views on this subject.

Would you book a young DJ of say under 18 to do your function?

I started at 13 roadying, then DJing in my own right at 15 and I suppose was fairly competent by the time I was 18.

I have seen guys from here and other forums say that they are out working at people's weddings at 15 and 16. Would you trust a youngster to do yours?
Reasons for and against please.

[Shaun]

Good Topic. I started DJing at 16, which included weddings. Would I hire a 16 year old with my wedding?...not a chance. I'd probably lean towards booking someone who has a lot more years experience of weddings.

[Boogie Boy]

Well, in this non-ageist utopia we now live in I guess the law says a person can't show any form of bias...that's good 'cos it is no longer an excuse for ageing DJs not to be employed 'cos their zimmer frame didn't give off the right image.:p :p :p

HOwever, a 16 year old would have more empathy with brides and grooms of say 19, 20, 21 than an old codger who's possibly a tad world weary and if the make up of the audience tilted toward an average age of less than 30.....

Personally, unless the guy came highly recommended, I'd have problems trusting such a young (obviously relatively inexperienced) DJ. Which could lead to another thread. Just how much experience is enough?

[Vectis]

I was out DJing on my own (ok, with a mate of a similar age who doubled as a robotic dancer :o ) from age 14 and TBH I don't think I was offered a wedding for several years.

At that age it was social clubs, the odd pub/nightclub and birthday parties. Advertising was via the local rag and cards in shop windows.

I suspect the prevalence of t'internet has resulted in weddings being offered to younger DJs possibly because the hirer doesn't know what they're getting or maybe because the younger DJs charge less and the hirer thinks they're getting a bargain?

[rob1963]

Interesting subject.

My own view that the best DJ for a job will often be one nearest the age of the person who is having the party, as they will be more in tune with the appropriate music.

For example, I think someone who is having an 18th birthday party would rather have a DJ around the same age than a DJ of 40 or 50, as they will probably be more in touch with the kind of music currently being listened to by people of that age.

At the other end of the scale, if I was having a party for my 50th birthday, I'd rather have a DJ of a similar age than a teenager, as they'd be more likely to know & have the music I grew up with & danced to at the discos.

This is probably why I enjoy 40ths & 50ths, and why I don't do 18ths.

You can't beat experience. The longer you've been doing something, the better you will be at it, which is why I'd also be concerned about booking a young DJ for my party.

After all, I've been in this game for over 24 years, and I'm still learning NOW!

[Vectis]

<blah>

This is probably why I enjoy 40ths & 50ths, and why I don't do 18ths.

... and which is why I have a 16-year-old roadie with a keen interest in current music

[robbiedj]

It all depends on the dj and, if under age, who will accompany them. I am assuming that PLI/PAT is covered here.

If they show a knowledge of music and their chosen trade when I speak to them, and have reasonable experience, then I might book them for a function. For a wedding, however, I would probably need more info and a few references from previous weddings beforehand.

[soundtracker]

I don't understand what age has got to do with anything! I was doing Weddings when I was 16/17 and doing them(even though I do say so myself) a **** site better than the majority of older DJs in the area. As for DJs needing to be near to the age of the crowd, Westwood has got a bit of a problem then! Being 50 he obviously can't keep his finger on the pulse of new stuff happening.

[Boogie Boy]

... and which is why I have a 16-year-old roadie with a keen interest in current music

Semi-mature, ex-rug rats can come in useful.:p

I've tried to get my 20 year old daughter interested, but she's having none of it.

[rob1963]

I don't understand what age has got to do with anything! I was doing Weddings when I was 16/17 and doing them(even though I do say so myself) a **** site better than the majority of older DJs in the area. As for DJs needing to be near to the age of the crowd, Westwood has got a bit of a problem then! Being 50 he obviously can't keep his finger on the pulse of new stuff happening.

Soundtracker,

You are also 50, so I'd be interested to know something.

Given the choice, which would you rather do, an 18th birthday party or a 50th birthday party? and why?

EDIT: Also, is your post suggesting that a 16 or 17 year will often do a better job at a wedding than an older, more experienced DJ? or are you just talking about yourself?

[Dragonfly]

if i had met them (as im sure you would and felt they could offer what i wanted from the evening and for me personally i felt they were going to put in 110% effort and try and make my evening very special then age wouldn't even come into it....

I wouldn't want an ageing dj to be playing val doonican on 78s all night just as i wouldnt want a young dj who played 5 70s/80s tracks then funky house for 4 hours solid.

i heard from a venue near me that i played in the week before they had an 18th with an old dj playing the birthday girl asked for Britney spears to which the djs reply was ..... Britney who??????? apparently set the tone for the whole evenng.

so to sum up if the dj has the knowledge and ability to do the job they have the knowledge and ability to do the job..... said that to our Tone on many occasions.



























unless theyre in cycling shorts when they arrive :D :D :D :D :D :D ;)

[Boogie Boy]

I don't understand what age has got to do with anything! I was doing Weddings when I was 16/17 and doing them(even though I do say so myself) a **** site better than the majority of older DJs in the area. As for DJs needing to be near to the age of the crowd, Westwood has got a bit of a problem then! Being 50 he obviously can't keep his finger on the pulse of new stuff happening.

Quite honestly, I think Westwood looks ridiculous (and sounds even worse with his synthetic hood speak). He's one guy who makes me cringe.

One of the reasons I stopped club DJing at the age of 35, was exactly because I recognised I no longer had a true affinity with my audience. My daughter keeps on at me to go after work in the local clubs and pubs that are rammed with a young age group, but I refuse to entertain the idea. I wouldn't enjoy playing to them and I 'm sure they wouldn't enjoy what I have to offer. Only exception would be an advertised retro club night where people came to hear authentic retro club tunes played by an authentic retro club DJ. Even then, they'd probably want impossible toons they'd just read about that day, on some hip web forum.

[soundtracker]

I really have no preference, I'm equally at home with either. I must say that over the last few weeks with School Proms and crowds of 200 screaming 16/18 year olds, the energy level they create is brilliant - it really reminds you why you started DJing in the first place. Anyhoo - getting back to the subject - it would be highly hypocritical of me to criticise the younger DJ for doing weddings, when I did exactly the same myself! The only rider I would add, is that its essential that they know their music inside out - having said that, there's plenty of older DJs out there that know very little!

[theoloyla]

I started dj'ing when I was 16. Some of the time I had a partner and/or go-go dancers with me but we were all young. It was mostly pubs, clubs and birthdays. I cant remember when I did my first wedding. Probably not until I was in my 20's. Nothing is ever set in concrete but I would need convincing that a very young inexperienced dj could be trusted to do a wedding which is such an important function. Likewise there is a lot of antipathy towards booking me for teenage parties and I dont blame them although I feel I can still do a good job.

[rob1963]

i heard from a venue near me that i played in the week before they had an 18th with an old dj playing the birthday girl asked for Britney spears to which the djs reply was ..... Britney who??????? apparently set the tone for the whole evenng.

That highlights my point about why it's generally best to have a DJ around the same age as the person who's having the party.

Turning it round, if I had a party for my 50th birthday & hired an 18 year old DJ, I'm pretty sure he wouldn't have heard of many of my requests...let alone have them.

[soundtracker]

Quite honestly, I think Westwood looks ridiculous (and sounds even worse with his synthetic hood speak). He's one guy who makes me cringe.



I wasn't quoting Westwood as someone that I particularly admire - just someone old!:)

[Charlie Brown]

Interesting topic, and this is a question I ask myself..

I think people are crazy when they phone me up and make a booking, although I have to say 90% of my work is word of mouth. "My daughter came to Natalie's birthday party, and loved the magic, can we book you?" "You played a cracking set, the music was just right for us 80 year olds, can you come and play some music in the nursing home?"

That’s how my work is, and I think you need to gain the trust and respect from the audience/bookie for them to book you against a 30 year old. If they see you in action then that’s fine..

Another reason is on my website it doesn’t actually state my age just "Charlie Brown's Disco is owned and ran by an enterprising young man, Charlie Brown" or something along the lines...

Is this naughty? When I turn up with my dad there is never a problem...

Do people need to know your age? Is it relevant if you can do a good job?

Plus, a quick question, you may not want to answer, but how much do you spend on google adwords? What’s your monthly budget?

[soundtracker]

That highlights my point about why it's generally best to have a DJ around the same age as the person who's having the party.

Turning it round, if I had a party for my 50th birthday & hired an 18 year old DJ, I'm pretty he wouldn't have heard of many of my requests...let alone have them.

NO! what that highlights is that there are numpties out there that know or care very little about Music.
TBH I find that Britney story hard to swallow since she's in every newspaper and on the National news at least a couple of times a week.

[Charlie Brown]

That highlights my point about why it's generally best to have a DJ around the same age as the person who's having the party.

Turning it round, if I had a party for my 50th birthday & hired an 18 year old DJ, I'm pretty he wouldn't have heard of many of my requests...let alone have them.

Hmm and what about if the DJ loves that kind of music, and isn't into all the terrible new songs? What if he has a love for that particular age? I know what you mean, and understand your point BUT someone like myself, listens to a lot of that music all the time and has a ok knowledge of the music (except Dr Dr lol).. nothing like you lot, but enough to make it a very good night.

And I suppose you could say that a client deserves the best, and would rather have someone with a full knowledge instead of a “OK” knowledge..this could be where money comes in, to suit different peoples budget?

[djsteve10]

Very good thread here,

Well i am only a young dj myself and i have been doing the job for 6 - 7 years not sure exactly, Anyway i do not have a problem with younger dj's so long as they are dedicated to what they do and that they meet my requirements in the lines of my requests, If i was say 40 - 50 then i would book an older more expereinced Dj to perform as they would have a more diverse knowledge of the music as they were probably dj'in in the time of the music been around.

All i can say on this matter is being a young Dj myself i try to remain professional, give a very good professional service and try and stand out from the rest.

[rob1963]

Hmm and what about if the DJ loves that kind of music, and isn't into all the terrible new songs? What if he has a love for that particular age? I know what you mean, and understand your point BUT someone like myself, listens to a lot of that music all the time and has a ok knowledge of the music (except Dr Dr lol).. nothing like you lot, but enough to make it a very good night.

And I suppose you could say that a client deserves the best, and would rather have someone with a full knowledge instead of a “OK” knowledge..this could be where money comes in, to suit different peoples budget?

I completely understand what you are saying, Charlie, and there will always be exceptions to the rule, but I was speaking in more general terms.

Good to hear you prefer the older stuff to the current stuff though...now I don't feel so old!

:D

[Boogie Boy]

Charlie Brown: Try charging £200-£250 plus and see if you get the same take up and don't offer to knock 15% off any price people may have been quoted.

I'm not trying to dissuade you from DJing, infer that you don't have ability, or burst your bubble, but there are possibly other reasons why people book you.

[ppentertainments]

Interesting topic. I have seen on some websites dj's advertising that they would not send a 18 yr old to a 50th birthday or a 50 yr old to to do a 18th birthday.

I must admit I would be dubious about having a youngster do a wedding. Have no logical reasons guess it must just be prejudice as I know a lot of good mature young dj's.

To turn things around a bit do you think older dj's should keep away from young gigs ie 18th's. I personally think age does not matter. I have a friend in his 60's who helps roadie sometime and he is great with the teens and 21st gigs.

I have been asked by wedding clients to meet up and they have told me at the meeting they wanted to check out that I was not some young 18yr old dj.

I think we all specialise in certain areas and age groups. Even if that does not fit in with 'the age we should be dj'ing for' I think if we are good at in then should stick with it regardless of age.

[Ace DJ]

Very interesting subject. Being young and with a good knowledge of music doesn't make you a DJ. You have to learn the ropes of being an entertainer. Running an agency I have found over the years young DJ's and musician / vocalist don't have the experience to cope for when things go wrong or for the distractions that normal life brings. This is all about long term committment

What happens when the driver cannot make the gig at the last minute. Presuming they are not old enough to drive. There is to much of a reliance on other people. It is other people that let you down.

The subject of PLI always crops up. This has to be in the name of an adult. That adult has to be present at every gig.
A contract cannot be sign by anyone under 18.
You cannot work on licensed premises under 18.
The answer is be a roadie for a few years learn all there is to know.
Then venture out into the big wide world.
I personally don't use any DJ's under 20 -25 yrs old as many clients worry about a very young DJ turning up at their wedding or corporate event.
Ace

[rob1963]

I must admit I would be dubious about having a youngster do a wedding. Have no logical reasons guess it must just be prejudice as I know a lot of good mature young dj's.

Maybe their lack of experience is why you'd be dubious about booking them.

[Charlie Brown]

I completely understand what you are saying, Charlie, and there will always be exceptions to the rule, but I was speaking in more general terms.

Good to hear you prefer the older stuff to the current stuff though...now I don't feel so old!

:D

I understand what you mean, :)


Charlie Brown: Try charging £200-£250 plus and see if you get the same take up and don't offer to knock 15% off any price people may have been quoted.

I'm not trying to dissuade you from DJing, infer that you don't have ability, or burst your bubble, but there are possibly other reasons why people book you.


God yeh, and I agree, a lot of it is down to money,

And as I don’t need big bucks, then I can continue to build on my rig and most of all, gain much needed experience:)

[theoloyla]

I think I probably worked with a toastmaster for my first few weddings which probably helps. Ideally young dj's would benefit most from roadying/working with a more experienced dj but that is not always the case. I had to pick it up on my own but I learned a lot from working with Mecca house bands doing dinner dances plus my parents were very into music; so I was familiar with music from the 40's right up to date. The radio was always tuned in and turned on to the Light Programme (now Radio 2); so I had a wide knowledge of music. I think it works the other way too. I've got a 6th form prom next Friday and I shall probably take a young friend along to help me.


Very interesting subject. Being young and with a good knowledge of music doesn't make you a DJ. You have to learn the ropes of being an entertainer.

The subject of PLI always crops up. This has to be in the name of an adult. That adult has to be present at every gig.
A contract cannot be sign by anyone under 18.
You cannot work on licensed premises under 18.

Ace
A minor can make a contract and millions of them do so every time they buy something in this country every day. The important part of the law is that it cannot be enforced against them because they are under age. This is why many companies like insurers, finance companies, banks etc will not entertain them. Also young people over 16 can work in licenced premises but they cannot serve alcohol.

[Charlie Brown]

You have to learn the ropes of being an entertainer. Running an agency I have found over the years young DJ's and musician / vocalist don't have the experience to cope for when things go wrong or for the distractions that normal life brings. This is all about long term committment

What happens when the driver cannot make the gig at the last minute. Presuming they are not old enough to drive. There is to much of a reliance on other people. It is other people that let you down.




Hmm your right about the driver, but my Dad is very keen and hasn't/won't let me down, and if he does, I have several backup plans.

And about being a entertainer/showman side, in a way I disagree! I have been performing/acting since the age of 5, (big stage productions), and always been a keen showman and I think this has helped me a lot...

Thinking about it, I understand everything that ALL of you are saying, and I have to say, I agree, but I won't tell the clients that;) I’m happy if I carry on doing 3-4 a month, and paying Dad back for the bomb I have spent. Nothing can beat experience, and as they say "Practise makes perfect" and in this line of work, it must take years..

[rob1963]

Quite honestly, I think Westwood looks ridiculous (and sounds even worse with his synthetic hood speak). He's one guy who makes me cringe.

I tend to agree.

Reminds me of a good friend of mine. He thinks he is young & trendy, has all the new music, dresses young & does lots of kids parties (as well as quiz nights) where he usually wears long shorts & flip flops.

What he doesn't know is that behind his back people laugh at him. I've had people say things like "He looks like a 15 year old skater boy" and "Talk about mutton dressed as lamb" I have tried telling him a few times, but I don't think he believed me.

The truth is he needs to accept that he's nearly 50, and then start dressing & acting that way!


I really have no preference, I'm equally at home with either. I must say that over the last few weeks with School Proms and crowds of 200 screaming 16/18 year olds, the energy level they create is brilliant

Fair enough.

Out of interest, at which functions do you get the most requests for music you know & are more likely to have...18ths or 50ths?


I've got a 6th form prom next Friday and I shall probably take a young friend along to help me.

Very sensible, Theo.

Soundtracker take note!

:rolleyes:

[Shaun]

Age has nothing to do with it. I reckon I have a better knowledge of 'yoof' music than most people half my age. Youngsters know about current music because they listen to a lot of it....as do I. Age is irrelevant.

[rob1963]

Age has nothing to do with it. I reckon I have a better knowledge of 'yoof' music than most people half my age. Youngsters know about current music because they listen to a lot of it....as do I. Age is irrelevant.

Interesting view, Shaun.

Are you saying you think the average 18 year old DJ would have a better knowledge & understanding of the music required at a 50th birthday party than the average 50 year old DJ would?

[Charlie Brown]

Interesting view, Shaun.

Are you saying you think the average 18 year old DJ would have a better knowledge & understanding of the music required at a 50th birthday party than the average 50 year old DJ would?

That can't make sense....can it?

[rob1963]

That can't make sense....can it?

I don't know, Charlie.

Shaun said age doesn't matter, so it's a question I am interested to hear his answer to.

:)

[Shaun]

Interesting view, Shaun.

Are you saying you think the average 18 year old DJ would have a better knowledge & understanding of the music required at a 50th birthday party than the average 50 year old DJ would?

Not necessarily. The difference being an older DJ would have lived through the musical period and have a good understanding of it. However, a 50 year old DJ could still have an excellent understanding of today's music as they're experiencing it at the time it's come out. People in general will always have a better understanding of music that they've experienced personally. (in most cases)A person that's trying to 'learn' about a genre later down the line will always have a harder task in my opinion.

[rob1963]

Not necessarily. The difference being an older DJ would have lived through the musical period and have a good understanding of it. However, a 50 year old DJ could still have an excellent understanding of today's music as they're experiencing it at the time it's come out. People in general will always have a better understanding of music that they've experienced personally. (in most cases)A person that's trying to 'learn' about a genre later down the line will always have a harder task in my opinion.

I can't argue with any of that! :eek: :p

[Shaun]

I can't argue with any of that! :eek: :p

That'll be a first. :D

[rob1963]

That'll be a first. :D

:Laugh:

[Charlie Brown]

Hmm nope, neither can I, good point,

very good point

[rob1963]

Although I think Shaun's post #35 somewhat contradicts his previous "age is irrelevant" statement!

[Shaun]

Although I think Shaun's post #35 somewhat contradicts his previous "age is irrelevant" statement!

In the context I meant (i.e an older DJ doing a youth event) it was completely relevant. I maybe should have elaborated earlier.

It goes back to why I wouldn't hire a young DJ to do a wedding. In the vast majority of cases a younger DJ cannot have the same level of musical expertise that an older and longer established DJ has.

[Boogie Boy]

Charlie and all the other young DJs on here: I wouldn't get too friendly with the rest of us. You're gonna have to give us a good kickin' at some point if you want to get the better paying jobs in the future. We're the guys who'll be holding you back. Maybe that's the real problem. Older guys are rather reluctant to admit there are younger guys who are (possibly) more fit for the job.

When I was a young DJ it wasn't really a problem, as the industry was very young too.

[rob1963]

In the context I meant (i.e an older DJ doing a youth event) is was completely relevant. I maybe should have elaborated further.

Ahhhh...I'm with you.

I wonder if we will get the views of the thread starter?

He's been very quiet so far!

[soundtracker]

Fair enough.

Out of interest, at which functions do you get the most requests for music you know & are more likely to have...18ths or 50ths?

Very sensible, Theo.

Soundtracker take note!

:rolleyes:

Very rarely am I asked for anything that I don't have, at any level, its something I've always prided myself on. So far this morning, I've listened to albums by Doctor Feelgood, Get Cape Wear Cape Fly and Mary J Blige - its all about keeping up to date as things appear.As for your little sideswipe, I have great respect for Theo, and if he feels the need to have someone younger with him, then that is his prerogative. I don't need any assistance, I know my music, always have done, so to answer a previous question - yes I could have and indeed did, as a 17 year old play many 50th and 60th birthdays, which were much harder back then as the older crowd were more interested in Big Band Music, Max Bygraves, and James Last - I also used to run a regular 6os night -so age was never a barrier. As I said the other day Knowledge is Power.

[rob1963]

Very rarely am I asked for anything that I don't have, at any level, its something I've always prided myself on. So far this morning, I've listened to albums by Doctor Feelgood, Get Cape Wear Cape Fly and Mary J Blige - its all about keeping up to date as things appear.As for your little sideswipe, I have great respect for Theo, and if he feels the need to have someone younger with him, then that is his prerogative. I don't need any assistance, I know my music, always have done, so to answer a previous question - yes I could have and indeed did, as a 17 year old play many 50th and 60th birthdays, which were much harder back then as the older crowd were more interested in Big Band Music, Max Bygraves, and James Last - I also used to run a regular 6os night -so age was never a barrier. As I said the other day Knowledge is Power.

Interesting to hear.

I think you might be in the minority, though.

[Shaun]

I'd say Pete was in the Majority. Most 'clued up' professional DJs will have a good knowledge over a wide span of eras and genres. The Professional DJs that don't are in the minority in my opinion.

[rob1963]

I'd say Pete was in the Majority. Most 'clued up' professional DJs will have a good knowledge over a wide span of eras and genres.

I guess it depends on how you define clued up & good knowledge.

I think it also depends to some extent on which markets they cater for.

[Boogie Boy]

Very rarely am I asked for anything that I don't have, at any level, its something I've always prided myself on. So far this morning, I've listened to albums by Doctor Feelgood, Get Cape Wear Cape Fly and Mary J Blige - its all about keeping up to date as things appear.As for your little sideswipe, I have great respect for Theo, and if he feels the need to have someone younger with him, then that is his prerogative. I don't need any assistance, I know my music, always have done, so to answer a previous question - yes I could have and indeed did, as a 17 year old play many 50th and 60th birthdays, which were much harder back then as the older crowd were more interested in Big Band Music, Max Bygraves, and James Last - I also used to run a regular 6os night -so age was never a barrier. As I said the other day Knowledge is Power.

Have you ever considered that maybe you listen to too much music and quantity can and does act as a log jam of the mind and its power to critically discriminate? Some people have a larger capacity than others, but personally I gave up listening to a lot of music years ago. I just listen to what's in the charts, make my mind up about tracks and then act accordingly when gigging. Anything more than that would send me to the happy farm.

[Jiggles]

unless they’re in cycling shorts when they arrive :D:D:D:D:D:D;)

Was waiting for someone to say that!

Anyway...

Does it matter what age? Some 50 year old could of just started out and have very little experience. You book them expecting them to know what to do but arrive not what you were wanting and unable to do the gig correctly. But that other company ran by 16 year olds you looked at think they have no experience there too young was what you were wanting, professional and smart looking disco with the bells and whiles. It’s all about experience. Young doesn’t mean less experience!

[Boogie Boy]

Was waiting for someone to say that!

Anyway...

Does it matter what age? Some 50 year old could of just started out and have very little experience. You book them expecting them to know what to do but arrive not what you were wanting and unable to do the gig correctly. But that other company ran by 16 year olds you looked at think they have no experience there too young was what you were wanting, professional and smart looking disco with the bells and whiles. It’s all about experience. Young doesn’t mean less experience!

Point taken. However, a 50 year old would have done a lot more living and heard a lot more music in their time. Wait until you're 50 and see if you have the same attitude then.;)

[Shaun]

I can't believe I actually agree with something Boogie Boy has said. :eek:

(except the last line - I don't think Callum has shown any kind of 'attitude')

[rob1963]

Was waiting for someone to say that!

Anyway...

Does it matter what age? Some 50 year old could of just started out and have very little experience. You book them expecting them to know what to do but arrive not what you were wanting and unable to do the gig correctly. But that other company ran by 16 year olds you looked at think they have no experience there too young was what you were wanting, professional and smart looking disco with the bells and whiles. It’s all about experience. Young doesn’t mean less experience!

No, not always...only about 95% of the time!

:D

[ppentertainments]

I wonder if we will get the views of the thread starter?

He's been very quiet so far!

Maybe he is trying to get his kit in the new vehicle then thought - wish I got something bigger !!

[rob1963]

Maybe he is trying to get his kit in the new vehicle then thought - wish I got something bigger !!

:Laugh:

[soundtracker]

Have you ever considered that maybe you listen to too much music and quantity can and does act as a log jam of the mind and its power to critically discriminate? Some people have a larger capacity than others, but personally I gave up listening to a lot of music years ago. I just listen to what's in the charts, make my mind up about tracks and then act accordingly when gigging. Anything more than that would send me to the happy farm.

Absolutely not - I couldn't do my job properly without knowing whats going on in music around me - when have the charts ever been a gauge of what people like in music? I find that a very strange comment from a former club DJ that would never have used the charts as a guide to what to play!

[Jiggles]

Point taken. However, a 50 year old would have done a lot more living and heard a lot more music in their time. Wait until you're 50 and see if you have the same attitude then.;)

That 50 year old might have only listened to non main stream music i dont know! your jsut generlising that some one young only listend to chart hits and nothing else. I enjoy anything from the 70s to the present day. 60s possibly but not too keen.

[Boogie Boy]

Absolutely not - I couldn't do my job properly without knowing whats going on in music around me - when have the charts ever been a gauge of what people like in music? I find that a very strange comment from a former club DJ that would never have used the charts as a guide to what to play!

Charts have always been a guage of what people like. Is your playlist totally different to the next guys? Of course it isn't.

As a club DJ I used the charts as a guide...the Disco charts (and if a 'club' record did well nationally chart-wise it was usually a cause for celebration). If you're willing to divulge which tracks that are not in the charts are sooooo much better, I'm listening. I live in hope of hearing better music than is in the charts, but (as so many of you have already told me) there's no way you could ever play them, 'cos people wouldn't know them. Even many of the clubs in my home town are scaringly chart 'n' cheese dominated. When my daughter tells me what is played, I can't believe it.

I remember once I was asked to give an interview for some 16 year old school kids on music (as I was by then a very experienced club DJ). The gist of what I went on about for 15 minutes or so? Don't let the older generation take control of what you listen to and never feel comfortable with music your mums and dads like. I still feel the same way and quite honestly, I'd turn down 18 year old types of functions as I don't feel they should have someone of my age dictating to them (and to a certain extent that's what a DJ does in effect), or they should even entertain the notion of having us do it.

To me, there's something 'not quite right' about a 50+ year old playing the latest and hippest music to 18 year olds. It ain't natural. The reverse is less true, as natural talent doesn't increase with age and older people are more likely to be able to critically assess and appreciate.
Just my view on things.

[Boogie Boy]

That 50 year old might have only listened to non main stream music i dont know! your jsut generlising that some one young only listend to chart hits and nothing else. I enjoy anything from the 70s to the present day. 60s possibly but not too keen.

Yeh, but have you lived with that '70s track for 30 odd years, or the '60s track for 40+? Do you know any of the history attached to them first-hand? That kinda experience does count for something, doesn't it?

[Charlie Brown]

Charlie and all the other young DJs on here: I wouldn't get too friendly with the rest of us. You're gonna have to give us a good kickin' at some point if you want to get the better paying jobs in the future. We're the guys who'll be holding you back. Maybe that's the real problem. Older guys are rather reluctant to admit there are younger guys who are (possibly) more fit for the job.

When I was a young DJ it wasn't really a problem, as the industry was very young too.

What do you mean, I cant become freindly with people??

Lol lost me....

plese explain:confused:

[OllieJames]

i'm 15, i would not put myself up for doing a wedding, as i don't feel i have enough experience at this age.

[rob1963]

To me, there's something 'not quite right' about a 50+ year old playing the latest and hippest music to 18 year olds. It ain't natural.

I completely agree.

As stated in a previous post, I have a friend in his late 40s who dresses young and plays all the latest & hippest music not only to 18 year olds, but also on many occasions to people in their very early teens...and people take the mick out of him behind his back.

[Jiggles]

Yeh, but have you lived with that '70s track for 30 odd years, or the '60s track for 40+? Do you know any of the history attached to them first-hand? That kinda experience does count for something, doesn't it?

I dotn think i need to know he history of the music in order to play it. IF i can read the croud and play what ehy want to hear then thats what were there to do no matter what age you are. if your 15 or 50 and you can get a dancefloor moving and look the part then thats wat matters!?!

[Boogie Boy]

What do you mean, I cant become freindly with people??

Lol lost me....

plese explain:confused:

Charlie: Have you ever come across the expression 'figurative language'? In case you haven't......
"Figurative language or speech contains images. The writer or speaker describes something through the use of unusual comparisons, for effect, interest, and to make things clearer. The result of using this technique is the creation of interesting images".

That is, I didn't mean for my post to be taken literally. (moderators please note for future refrence:p)

[Charlie Brown]

Charlie: Have you ever come across the expression 'figurative language'? In case you haven't......
"Figurative language or speech contains images. The writer or speaker describes something through the use of unusual comparisons, for effect, interest, and to make things clearer. The result of using this technique is the creation of interesting images".

That is, I didn't mean for my post to be taken literally. (moderators please note for future refrence:p)

Hahah kk, lol, sos, I'm very gullible:p

[theoloyla]

i'm 15, i would not put myself up for doing a wedding, as i don't feel i have enough experience at this age.
That is a very mature decision. It is not neccessarily the case though. It depends on how many weddings you have attended as a guest. By the time I was your age I had only been to two weddings in my life but I had been to dozens of dinner dances, social clubs, pubs, theatres, pubs, dance halls, youth clubs etc etc. It helps to go with what you know when you are starting and then branch out once you have some experience.

[Boogie Boy]

I dotn think i need to know he history of the music in order to play it. IF i can read the croud and play what ehy want to hear then thats what were there to do no matter what age you are. if your 15 or 50 and you can get a dancefloor moving and look the part then thats wat matters!?!

"Youth is wasted on the young".:rolleyes: George Bernard Shaw (for those who didn't realise last time I used the phrase).
meaning: Youngsters probably have superb physical condition, sharp minds and are at the peak of their powers in certain things. Whereas older people have crumbling bodies and slower brains and the ability to recognise this. What youth lacks in many cases is the capacity to appreciate their own condition. Appreciation tends to develop with age and wisdom so that the phrase "if only I knew then what I know now" or "if only I could do things now, that I could do when I was younger" are often heard coming from older people.

I agree to some extent. Anyone can listen to a track once and guage its usefulness and nowadays, with all the free music on the internet, anyone can pillage any genre they desire and get a playlist together. Can't you see that doing so is hardly a testament to a person's knowledge or undersatnding of the subject matter and their attachment to it may be of a totally transient nature? On the whole, people who are passionate about a subject do well and passion can't come from 2 minutes of knowledge.

[soundtracker]

I completely agree.

As stated in a previous post, I have a friend in his late 40s who dresses young and plays all the latest & hippest music not only to 18 year olds, but also on many occasions to people in their very early teens...and people take the mick out of him behind his back.

Yeah you've said that twice now - If its sort of aimed at me, its well, well wide of the mark - I really can't see why you might think its so difficult to give people what they want? As for it not "being natural" I think that may be some problem of your own buried deep in your own psyche.

Just to put you in the picture, I've done the School Prom for one school for the last five years, and also their annual Christmas party - Off the back of this i've done two or three 18th parties a year for the same group of kids. Infact from the class of 2004 I reckon I've picked up at least 10 related parties, including a wedding for one of their mums - I take this as an indication that I'm doing something right, despite what bitter old DJs might think!

[theoloyla]

If it is about playing the right music to get the crowd dancing I can do that whatever their age but if it is about the look and style of the dj (and the equipment as well) then I have to own up and say that whilst I may not look quite my age I am definately no spring chicken. Style and presentation can be very important (if not more so) than musical content. Lets face it many stars have had successful careers built on style and definately not on musical ability.

[soundtracker]

"Youth is wasted on the young".:rolleyes: George Bernard Shaw (for those who didn't realise last time I used the phrase).
meaning: Youngsters probably have superb physical condition, sharp minds and are at the peak of their powers in certain things. Whereas older people have crumbling bodies and slower brains and the ability to recognise this. What youth lacks in many cases is the capacity to appreciate their own condition. Appreciation tends to develop with age and wisdom so that the phrase "if only I knew then what I know now" or "if only I could do things now, that I could do when I was younger" are often heard coming from older people.

I agree to some extent. Anyone can listen to a track once and guage its usefulness and nowadays, with all the free music on the internet, anyone can pillage any genre they desire and get a playlist together. Can't you see that doing so is hardly a testament to a person's knowledge or undersatnding of the subject matter and their attachment to it may be of a totally transient nature? On the whole, people who are passionate about a subject do well and passion can't come from 2 minutes of knowledge.

and that I totally agree with!

[Shaun]

Hahah kk, lol, sos, I'm very gullible:p

Please use proper English.

[Boogie Boy]

Please use proper English.

I'll take a stab.

Ho Ho, Kiss Kiss, So Sorry, Laugh out Loud.

Am I anywhere near?:confused:

[Jiggles]

"Youth is wasted on the young".:rolleyes: George Bernard Shaw (for those who didn't realise last time I used the phrase).
meaning: Youngsters probably have superb physical condition, sharp minds and are at the peak of their powers in certain things. Whereas older people have crumbling bodies and slower brains and the ability to recognise this. What youth lacks in many cases is the capacity to appreciate their own condition. Appreciation tends to develop with age and wisdom so that the phrase "if only I knew then what I know now" or "if only I could do things now, that I could do when I was younger" are often heard coming from older people.

I agree to some extent. Anyone can listen to a track once and guage its usefulness and nowadays, with all the free music on the internet, anyone can pillage any genre they desire and get a playlist together. Can't you see that doing so is hardly a testament to a person's knowledge or undersatnding of the subject matter and their attachment to it may be of a totally transient nature? On the whole, people who are passionate about a subject do well and passion can't come from 2 minutes of knowledge.

If you understand what the music is about then yes. You dont have to be pasionate to music to be a dj or have knowlage of muisc. Im not fully in love music but i can really get a croud dancing i get more 50th and 60th discos than anyothers.

[Charlie Brown]

I'll take a stab.

Ho Ho, Kiss Kiss, So Sorry, Laugh out Loud.

Am I anywhere near?:confused:


Laugh out loud, nearly instead of "kiss kiss" it should read, "ok"

Are you allowed to say "lol" or is it "laugh out loud" every time?

sorry:sorry:

[Shaun]

I'll take a stab.

Ho Ho, Kiss Kiss, So Sorry, Laugh out Loud.

Am I anywhere near?:confused:

I have no idea. I've never been able to decipher this new fan-dangled youth encyption.

[Charlie Brown]

If you understand what the music is about then yes. You dont have to be pasionate to music to be a dj or have knowlage of muisc. Im not fully in love music but i can really get a croud dancing i get more 50th and 60th discos than anyothers.

Same:D but I love the music:)

[Charlie Brown]

I have no idea. I've never been able to decipher this new fan-dangled youth encyption.

Hmm ok, I best not use it then,

sorry

[Shaun]

Laugh out loud, nearly instead of "kiss kiss" it should read, "ok"

Are you allowed to say "lol" or is it "laugh out loud" every time?

sorry:sorry:

Lol is fine, as it's an accepted internet abbreviation. All the other kind of 'text talk' that you'd normally use on your mobile phone is not allowed on the forum.


Hmm ok, I best not use it then,

sorry

Good man :approve:

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

To me, there's something 'not quite right' about a 50+ year old playing the latest and hippest music to 18 year olds. It ain't natural.

How old are all the big named club and dance DJs then?

You said you gave up clubs at 35 as you didn't have a true affinity with the people in the clubs.

What about Pete Tong, Judge Jules, Sasha etc - they must be older than 35 surely?

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

To answer my own post, Pete Tong is 48 this year and still one of the countries premier dance DJs.

Judge Jules - 42

Tiesto - 39

Paul Van Dyk - 37

Sasha - 38

Carl Cox - 47

John Digweed -41

Paul Oakenfold - 44

[Shaun]

To answer my own post, Pete Tong is 48 this year and still one of the countries permier dance DJs.


I didn't think he was particularly curly? :ph34r:

[soundtracker]

I didn't think he was particularly curly? :ph34r:

I've got more hair than him!:D

[rob1963]

To answer my own post, Pete Tong is 48 this year and still one of the countries premier dance DJs.

Judge Jules - 42

Tiesto - 39

Paul Van Dyk - 37

Sasha - 38

Carl Cox - 47

John Digweed -41

Paul Oakenfold - 44

How dare you miss out my old mate Dave Pearce from that list!

If I remember rightly, he's a year or two younger than myself...and still wearing that baseball cap!

:rolleyes:

[Charlie Brown]

Guys thinking about it, does it really matter how old any of us now, from me to you lot, at the end of the day we all play the same stuff:

working 9 to 5 - Dolly Parton
American Pie - Don McLean
Angels - Robbie Williams
Baby Love - The Supremes
Baggy Trousers - Madness
Believe - Cher
Billie Jean - Michael Jackson
Bohemian Rhapsody - Queen
Born in the USA - Bruce Springsteen
Brown Eyed Girl - Van Morrison
Brown Girl in the Ring - Boney M
Build Me Up Buttercup - Foundations
Can't Buy Me Love - Beatles
Car Wash - Rose Royce
Celebration - Kool & the Gang
Cha Cha Slide - DJ Casper
Chain Reaction - Steps or Diana Ross
Come on Eileen - Dexy's Midnight Runners
Congratulations - Cliff Richard
Copacabana - Barry Manilow
Country Roads - Hermes House Band
Dance the Night Away - Mavericks
Dancing in the Street - Martha Reeves & the Vandellas
Dancing Queen - Abba
Daydream Believer - Monkees
December '63 - Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons
Do You Love Me (Now That I Can Dance) - Contours
Don't Stop Me Now - Queen
Don't Look Back In Anger - Oasis
Footloose - Kenny Logans
Girls' Just Want to Have Fun - Cyndi Lauper
Glen Miller Medley - John Anderson Big Band
Grease Mega-mix - John Travolta & Olivia Newton John
Greatest Love of All - Whitney Houston
Groove is in the Heart - Deee-Lite
Heaven is a Place on Earth - Belinda Carlisle
Hey Baby - DJ Otzi
Holiday - Madonna
Hot Hot Hot - Arrow
Hungry Eyes - Eric Carmen
I Don't Feel Like Dancing - Scissor Sisters
I Feel Love - Donna Summer
I Usta Love Her - Saw Doctors
I Wanna Dance With Somebody - Whitney Houston or Flip & Fill
I Will Survive - Gloria Gaynor
I'll Tell Me Ma - Evergreens
I'm a Believer - Monkees
I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles) - Proclaimers
I'm In The Mood for Dancing - Nolans
I'm Still Standing - Elton John
I'm Your Man - Wham or Shane Ritchie
Irish Rover - Pogues & Dubliners
Is This the Way to Amarillo - Tony Christie
It's Raining Men - Weather Girls or Geri Haliwell
I've Had the Time of My Life - Bill Medley & Jennifer Warnes
Karma Chameleon - Culture Club
La Bamba - Los Lobos
Lady (Hear me Tonight) - Mojo
Let the Music Play - Barry White
Let's Dance - Chris Montez
Let's Twist Again - Chubby Checker
Livin' on a Prayer - Bon Jovi
Locomotion - Little Eva
Love Shack - B52's
Love Train - O'Jays
Macarena - Los Del Rio
Mambo No 5 - Lou Bega
Mamma Mia - Abba
Man! I Feel Like a Woman - Shania Twain
Maniac 2000 - Mark McCabe
Mustang Sally - Committments
New York New York - Frank Sinatra
Oh Pretty Woman - Roy Orbison
Only Way is Up - Yazz
Perfect Day - Lou Reed or Various Artists
Queen of My Heart - Westlife
Reach - S Club
Reet Petite - Jackie Wilson
Relight My Fire - Take That
Rock DJ - Robbie Williams
Rockin' All Over The World - Status Quo
Run - Snow Patrol
Saturday Night - Whigfield
Sex Bomb - Tom Jones & Mousse T
Shoop Shoop Song (It's in His Kiss) - Cher
Spirit in the Sky - Dr & The Medics
Stayin' Alive - Bee Gees or N Trance
Stuck in the Middle With You - Stealers Wheel
Sugar Sugar - Archies
Summer of '69 - Bryan Adams
Sunny - Boney M
Sweet Caroline - Neil Diamond
Sweet Child O' Mine - Guns N Roses
Teenage Kicks - Undertones
That's Amore - Dean Martin
The Best - Tina Turner
The Gambler - Kenny Rogers
The One & Only - Chesney Hawkes
The Whole Of The Moon - The Waterboys
Thriller - Michael Jackson
Time Warp - Damien
Tragedy - Bee Gees or Steps
Twist & Shout - Beatles
Under the Boardwalk - Drifters
Uptown Girl - Billy Joel or Westlife
Wake Me Up Before You Go Go - Wham
When a Man Loves a Woman - Percy Sledge
When You're Looking Like That - Westlife
Whiskey in the Jar - Evergreens
Whole Lotta Rosie - ACDC
Wild Rover - Evergreens
YMCA - Village People
You Can't Hurry Love - Phil Colins
You're a Superstar - Love Inc.
You're The First, My Last, My Everything - Barry White
Young Hearts Run Free - Candi Staton


sorry, thats kinda long, just had it on my laptop from ages,

but you can't say you play a lot differnt from that list, give or take a few?

How do you need experiance for that?

[Charlie Brown]

Jeeees sorry, delete it, didn't realise it was that big!!

[Boogie Boy]

Guys thinking about it, does it really matter how old any of us now, from me to you lot, at the end of the day we all play the same stuff:

working 9 to 5 - Dolly Parton
American Pie - Don McLean
Angels - Robbie Williams
Baby Love - The Supremes
Baggy Trousers - Madness
Believe - Cher.....................

You Can't Hurry Love - Phil Colins
You're a Superstar - Love Inc.
You're The First, My Last, My Everything - Barry White
Young Hearts Run Free - Candi Staton


but you can't say you play a lot differnt from that list, give or take a few?

How do you need experiance for that?

Mastermix has a lot to answer for.:o

Sure, that's a basic survival list and doubtless you could play that playlist every night and wouldn't have too many complaints, but would that necessarily be good enough? If you think yes, then my advice would be to think of something other than being a DJ, 'cos it'll only take a clever geek or a ruthless business to invent machines that will have taken over from us all within a few years. We are obviously expendible and unworthy, if that's your low opinion of DJs and DJing. Maybe we'll all be earning minimum wage in future, as the job will simply entail standing over an automatic system and pressing one button to start.

You must realise, there are many professions that can be 'learnt' in a relatively short time, it's only when you actually do the job for any length of time you start to learn in earnest. It's in your own interests to not make so light of it (even if you do find it dead simple).

[Sam]

I wouldn't want a young DJ doing my wedding.

Bit ironic really.. :)

[Charlie Brown]

Mastermix has a lot to answer for.:o

Sure, that's a basic survival list and doubtless you could play that playlist every night and wouldn't have too many complaints, but would that necessarily be good enough? If you think yes, then my advice would be to think of something other than being a DJ, 'cos it'll only take a clever geek or a ruthless business to invent machines that will have taken over from us all within a few years. We are obviously expendible and unworthy, if that's your low opinion of DJs and DJing. Maybe we'll all be earning minimum wage in future, as the job will simply entail standing over an automatic system and pressing one button to start.

You must realise, there are many professions that can be 'learnt' in a relatively short time, it's only when you actually do the job for any length of time you start to learn in earnest. It's in your own interests to not make so light of it (even if you do find it dead simple).

For me Master Mix has nothing to do with it, as I don’t use them,

But yes I understand your point, but I don’t play that every night, it’s just a guide...my point was that at the end of the day we all play the same 500 songs when it comes down to it, some people may have a collection of 25,000 but the bottom line is 500 of them are used..
It doesn’t sound like it, but it is a question, your thoughts?

Charlie

[Boogie Boy]

For me Master Mix has nothing to do with it, as I don’t use them,

But yes I understand your point, but I don’t play that every night, it’s just a guide...my point was that at the end of the day we all play the same 500 songs when it comes down to it, some people may have a collection of 25,000 but the bottom line is 500 of them are used..
It doesn’t sound like it, but it is a question, your thoughts?

Charlie

I actively try hard NOT to play those same 500 and drag out some different tunes. It's part suicide, part survival...only time will tell which prevails.

[Sam]

For me Master Mix has nothing to do with it, as I don’t use them,

But yes I understand your point, but I don’t play that every night, it’s just a guide...my point was that at the end of the day we all play the same 500 songs when it comes down to it, some people may have a collection of 25,000 but the bottom line is 500 of them are used..
It doesn’t sound like it, but it is a question, your thoughts?

Charlie

Could not agree more.
Especially when you are like me and do the same style of events (weddings & 30ths are my favs)

[Tom]

I dotn think i need to know he history of the music in order to play it. IF i can read the croud and play what ehy want to hear then thats what were there to do no matter what age you are. if your 15 or 50 and you can get a dancefloor moving and look the part then thats wat matters!?!

I'm sorry but I don't agree with that. For me I would like to know my past before I go in t the future. When I was a kid I was bought up on rock like AC/DC, Metallica, Megadeath, ect ect. These are old 80's rock/metal classics.

For me these are the roots of my genre of music.

As a DJ I always listen to all music and try to find a little bit about where the music come from. Some of you may be shocked by this but I really like the 1940 era. Some of the music is fantastic and some of the clothes to go with it. :o


I didn't think he was particularly curly? :ph34r:

:Laugh:


I wouldn't want a young DJ doing my wedding.

Bit ironic really.. :)

For me I would want to meet up with the DJ, see who he/she is about and test him on his musical knowledge. For me I wouldn't hire a DJ who was under 18. EVen if they have done many discos before and have a good rep, i'm just not intrested.

[Sam]

For me I would want to meet up with the DJ, see who he/she is about and test him on his musical knowledge. For me I wouldn't hire a DJ who was under 18. EVen if they have done many discos before and have a good rep, i'm just not intrested.

Yup.
Even if they are amazing like me :D :D :D

[Boogie Boy]

Yup.
Even if they are amazing like me :D :D :D

Cute!:p :p :p

[BeerFunk]

Most definitely not. Thinking back to when I started out, at 17... my word, no way. I knew a fair amount of the big hitters like the Bee Gees, Wham! etc, and obviously had a good grasp of chart music, but between then and now there is a huge difference.

An 18th or 21st - absolutely. A 40th or 50th - possibly. A wedding? I can't see how it can be done.

[Charlie Brown]

Could not agree more.
Especially when you are like me and do the same style of events (weddings & 30ths are my favs)

Except I havn't done a wedding:D

[PropellerHeadCase]

One of the reasons I stopped club DJing at the age of 35, was exactly because I recognised I no longer had a true affinity with my audience. My daughter keeps on at me to go after work in the local clubs and pubs that are rammed with a young age group, but I refuse to entertain the idea. I wouldn't enjoy playing to them and I 'm sure they wouldn't enjoy what I have to offer. Only exception would be an advertised retro club night where people came to hear authentic retro club tunes played by an authentic retro club DJ. Even then, they'd probably want impossible toons they'd just read about that day, on some hip web forum.

That's tosh. I love playing clubs, and whilst the punters at many of the clubs I've played at are your typical 18-25s you can readily get away with a good mix of current favourites, recent favourites and retro favourites in roughly equal numbers (especially if you include remixes of golden oldies in your retro favourites selection).

Around this time last year I played a half dozen or so school balls (attendance being anywhere from 200 to 600) and the big songs on the night
were the well-known current chart stuff (i.e. 'Umbrella) and 'Living on a Prayer', 'Summer of '69', 'Ice, Ice Baby' and 'U Can't Touch This'.

Sure, stear clear of the specialist genre clubs but anywhere that plays "pop" relies on retro just as much as current to make up the playlist.




I really have no preference, I'm equally at home with either. I must say that over the last few weeks with School Proms and crowds of 200 screaming 16/18 year olds, the energy level they create is brilliant - it really reminds you why you started DJing in the first place.

Agreed! There's not much like it.




I must admit I would be dubious about having a youngster do a wedding. Have no logical reasons guess it must just be prejudice as I know a lot of good mature young dj's.

A guy that worked for the same company I did back in NZ was a mature for his age peforming musician as well as a newbie DJ... second gig out he played Rage Against the Machine 'Killing in the Name of...' because someone requested it and because, in his estimation, it's a good song. It wasn't until after I explained to him that nothing but the B&Gs tastes is relevant - if they hadn't asked for alternative or Nu-Metal it was a no-go, and given the lyrics wouyld generally be an 'ask before you play it' song, anyway. Now he gets it. Care to guess how old he was?




To turn things around a bit do you think older dj's should keep away from young gigs ie 18th's. I personally think age does not matter. I have a friend in his 60's who helps roadie sometime and he is great with the teens and 21st gigs.

I think we all specialise in certain areas and age groups. Even if that does not fit in with 'the age we should be dj'ing for' I think if we are good at in then should stick with it regardless of age.

Fact is, though, that on balance, a DJ who is of an appropriate age will generally be better than a younger DJ. There will be exceptions, but they will be just that, exceptions, not the norm.




I tend to agree.

Reminds me of a good friend of mine. He thinks he is young & trendy, has all the new music, dresses young & does lots of kids parties (as well as quiz nights) where he usually wears long shorts & flip flops.

What he doesn't know is that behind his back people laugh at him. I've had people say things like "He looks like a 15 year old skater boy" and "Talk about mutton dressed as lamb" I have tried telling him a few times, but I don't think he believed me.

The truth is he needs to accept that he's nearly 50, and then start dressing & acting that way!

It's perfectly possible to look young without looking ridiculous - it's like the saying goes "Style never goes out of fashion".




Not necessarily. The difference being an older DJ would have lived through the musical period and have a good understanding of it. However, a 50 year old DJ could still have an excellent understanding of today's music as they're experiencing it at the time it's come out. People in general will always have a better understanding of music that they've experienced personally. (in most cases)A person that's trying to 'learn' about a genre later down the line will always have a harder task in my opinion.

True, but unless they are doing a theme gig relating to that genre/era then the tracks that have stood the test of time are going to be sufficient 99% of the time. Most DJs are only a handful of decent compilations and some research away from having enough to do a good job 99.9% of the time.




Have you ever considered that maybe you listen to too much music and quantity can and does act as a log jam of the mind and its power to critically discriminate? Some people have a larger capacity than others, but personally I gave up listening to a lot of music years ago. I just listen to what's in the charts, make my mind up about tracks and then act accordingly when gigging. Anything more than that would send me to the happy farm.

Yes, I suffer log-jamming occasionally. Critical discrimination has gone out the window... but then critical discrimination would see the vast majority of party favourites never played ;)




Charts have always been a guage of what people like. Is your playlist totally different to the next guys? Of course it isn't.

I used to think that what I play is really obvious but the number of venue staff who've told me that my music is much better than the DJ they had last night/week/month, and that's even when I've been handed a fait accompli of junk by the B&G.




As a club DJ I used the charts as a guide...the Disco charts (and if a 'club' record did well nationally chart-wise it was usually a cause for celebration).

The charts can be misleading - the pop charts are filled with very popular songs that you can't dance to, and the dance charts are filled with songs that only dedicated clubbers know. Catch 22? I think so.



If you're willing to divulge which tracks that are not in the charts are sooooo much better, I'm listening. I live in hope of hearing better music than is in the charts, but (as so many of you have already told me) there's no way you could ever play them, 'cos people wouldn't know them. Even many of the clubs in my home town are scaringly chart 'n' cheese dominated. When my daughter tells me what is played, I can't believe it.

Homogeneity is everywhere. Specialist genre clubs are increasingly that... specialist.



To me, there's something 'not quite right' about a 50+ year old playing the latest and hippest music to 18 year olds. It ain't natural.

How old was Mr Peel when he died?



The reverse is less true, as natural talent doesn't increase with age and older people are more likely to be able to critically assess and appreciate.
Just my view on things.

Critical assessment of the music itself or it's pop/pap-appeal? Two VERY different things.




Sure, that's a basic survival list and doubtless you could play that playlist every night and wouldn't have too many complaints, but would that necessarily be good enough? If you think yes, then my advice would be to think of something other than being a DJ, 'cos it'll only take a clever geek or a ruthless business to invent machines that will have taken over from us all within a few years. We are obviously expendible and unworthy, if that's your low opinion of DJs and DJing. Maybe we'll all be earning minimum wage in future, as the job will simply entail standing over an automatic system and pressing one button to start.

You must realise, there are many professions that can be 'learnt' in a relatively short time, it's only when you actually do the job for any length of time you start to learn in earnest. It's in your own interests to not make so light of it (even if you do find it dead simple).

That was a list of 116 songs. In the two and a half hours of music that often seems to make up the "dance" portion of an evening you can play, for the sake of argument 40 songs. That gives you 175,560 permutations of those 116 songs as regards to placement in the set and whether it gets played at all. Given that a DJ would only need to differentiate himself from all other DJs playing from that list by playing one memorable song that isn't on that list - you can see why every DJ can be different and why whilst a machine could play the songs it could never replace the inspiration factor of going outside that list.



But yes I understand your point, but I don’t play that every night, it’s just a guide...my point was that at the end of the day we all play the same 500 songs when it comes down to it, some people may have a collection of 25,000 but the bottom line is 500 of them are used..
It doesn’t sound like it, but it is a question, your thoughts?

Yes and no. There is a core of about 500 songs that make up the list of songs that get regularly played but about 10% of that list is constantly changing and it's the one or two songs NOT on that list that you play that will make or break a night.

[sleah]

To me, there's something 'not quite right' about a 50+ year old playing the latest and hippest music to 18 year olds. It ain't natural.

:eek: :eek:


I completely agree.

As stated in a previous post, I have a friend in his late 40s who dresses young and plays all the latest & hippest music not only to 18 year olds, but also on many occasions to people in their very early teens...and people take the mick out of him behind his back.

:eek: :eek: again.
Rob, you've just posted one bad example.
I am about to hit 40 and gimme a 16th anyday:rolleyes: If I were booked for one I know I would do a good job and the kids would be happy and not be concerned about my age. But then I'm not pretending to be 16 again:D

What's 'unnatural' about any one of any age playing music of any age or genre???:confused: :confused: :confused:
I'm happy to play up-to-date chart drivel if that's what they're asking for, despite the fact I'd hate every second of it:rolleyes:

Anyway, the age/ability argument is being done to death now.......:p

I'm inclined to agree with Ace's points, which aren't concerned with ability.
Personally, I'm not comfortable with someone under 16 DJing in a pub or club. I don't think they should be exposed to that environment, after all they ARE and adult environment. We all know what punters can be like towards DJ's in these places. Would you like your 14yr old child having some drunk bloke coming up effing and jeffing because you didn't play his request 2 seconds after he asked? Or worse still, a woman doing the same:eek: Even if they have a parent on 'the front line', they still witness it and cannot be easily moved out of the way or shielded.

[Sam]

Cute!:p :p :p
Oi, stop flirting ;) :p


Most definitely not. Thinking back to when I started out, at 17... my word, no way. I knew a fair amount of the big hitters like the Bee Gees, Wham! etc, and obviously had a good grasp of chart music, but between then and now there is a huge difference.

An 18th or 21st - absolutely. A 40th or 50th - possibly. A wedding? I can't see how it can be done.

I agree with the point about knowledge.
This was certainly the case when I started.
I also was not very good at handling the drunks..
But as you do more you gain experience.. :)


Except I havn't done a wedding:D

Oh.. do some.. they are fabulous:p

[PropellerHeadCase]

I'm happy to play up-to-date chart drivel if that's what they're asking for, despite the fact I'd hate every second of it:rolleyes:

Huh? :confused:

[rob1963]

Rob, you've just posted one bad example.
I am about to hit 40 and gimme a 16th anyday:rolleyes: If I were booked for one I know I would do a good job and the kids would be happy and not be concerned about my age. But then I'm not pretending to be 16 again:D


You say that, but I just think there's more to it than simply having/knowing about the music required.

I'd be interested to know what most 18 year olds would PREFER to have for their birthday party...an 18 year old DJ who had all the music they wanted or a 40 year old DJ who had all the music they wanted.

I can only speak for myself, but I wouldn't have wanted a 40+ year old DJ for MY 18th birthday party, and I definately won't want an 18 year old DJ for my 50th birthday party.

[Sam]

I would have wanted an older and experienced one.
but alas.. i had to go to New York instead.
Life is hard. :rolleyes:

[Penfold42]

I'm interested to know people's views on this subject.

Would you book a young DJ of say under 18 to do your function?

I started at 13 roadying, then DJing in my own right at 15 and I suppose was fairly competent by the time I was 18.

I have seen guys from here and other forums say that they are out working at people's weddings at 15 and 16. Would you trust a youngster to do yours?
Reasons for and against please.

I actually had a 16yr old DJ do my 40th....and he did a vey good job.....although i called him a hobby DJ at the time.....due to working with laptop's .......yes i now know different....:o .

He turned up smart dressed..with his mum....:p .....driver....small set up, 4 lights...and did the task asked of him and i even tipped him and brought him and his mum a drink.....

So yes, i would get a younger DJ to do a gig.....:)

[rob1963]

I would have wanted an older and experienced one.


I would have given you a discount too!

:D

[Sam]

I would have given you a discount too!

:D

But you might have made a move on me Rob!!!! :D :D :D

[Penfold42]

Wake up Rob.....they want a DJ...and a professional one.....:boxer2:


:D :D

[rob1963]

But you might have made a move on me Rob!!!! :D :D :D

Don't worry Sam...you're the wrong sex!


Wake up Rob.....they want a DJ...and a professional one.....:boxer2::D :D

Sounds like your holiday made you even more cheeky that you were before, Mr B!

:D

Edit: Welcome back, by the way!

[yourdj]

i had exactly the same conversation with one of my DJ's about this topic whilst out tonight. We were saying how well certain young DJ's (under 18) are doing and "good on them" as i would not have been so business minded at that age.

Basically - I would never book an under 18 year old DJ (for my wedding) if i was not a DJ myself. That is if i did not know them first.

There are several DJ's on this forum who are very keen and show lots of promise but may lack musical and social experience, although this may not be the case with some.

Some of the younger DJ's > you can make a fortune by stopping looking at what all the rest of us are doing and specializing in under 18/school discos in your local area as you know exactly what 15-18 year olds want! Rape your USP before you get to old!

It has taken me allot of time to gain the experience i have now and i still have LOTS more to learn (and i'm out 3 times a week at weddings, clubs, corporate blaa blaa).

I don't think i will ever stop learning and i think that is a very healthy attitude to have as a mobile DJ.

This profesion is natural to me and I LOVE IT, but i think it takes time and experience to truly learn the trade.

But some people have gifts etc. so maybe I'm wrong (mozart, Little Stevie (wonder) etc.).

Edit: That is unless they are part of a team with an older DJ.

[Corabar Steve]

(except Dr Dr lol)Which one did that turn out to be?


I tend to agree.

Reminds me of a good friend of mine. He thinks he is young & trendy, has all the new music, dresses young & does lots of kids parties Is his name Joe by any chance?


We're the guys who'll be holding you back. Maybe that's the real problem. Older guys are rather reluctant to admit there are younger guys who are (possibly) more fit for the job.
Speak for yourself, we've got both younger & older DJs working for us & they get sent to the job they are best suited to musically, regardless of age group of the clients / function

It’s all about experience. Young doesn’t mean less experience!Yes it does, however it doesn't necessarily mean inexperienced. There is a difference.

never feel comfortable with music your mums and dads like. Sloganeering at it's best (along with never trust a hippie), but utter twaddle. Listen to the music you like, not what other people feel you should like. You may be surprised at what you find you actually like


at the end of the day we all play the same 500 songsWell Rob does anyway :sj:

Having said (some of) the above, I wouldn't have a young DJ for my wedding.

Mainly because there are so few young DJs that could (competently) do a set to Angela & my (& our friends) tastes (unless we gave them a strict playlist of songs & genres). Luckily we have Laurence on our books, who would fit the bill very well (assuming he's still working for us if we ever get round to it)

[DazzyD]

I'm sorry but I don't agree with that. For me I would like to know my past before I go in t the future. When I was a kid I was bought up on rock like AC/DC, Metallica, Megadeath, ect ect. These are old 80's rock/metal classics.

For me these are the roots of my genre of music.

For me I would want to meet up with the DJ, see who he/she is about and test him on his musical knowledge. For me I wouldn't hire a DJ who was under 18. EVen if they have done many discos before and have a good rep, i'm just not intrested.

If I was to test you on you 80s classic metal, Tom, you'd fail. It's Megadeth - there is no second 'a'! But seriously, how often do we get asked for this music nowadays (unless we're doing rock nights)? I can't remember being asked for Megadeth ever and I started off doing rock nights when I was 18.

As for hiring a young DJ for a wedding then I'd have to say no. I'd want someone who can handle the stress and think quickly if something goes wrong. I strongly believe that these skills come with years of experience. I'll be looking for a DJ for my wedding in 2010 soon and (s)he'll need to be highly experienced!

Although I do train up DJs of all ages and use younger roadies/assistant DJs. So I don't think it's an ageist thing!

[Jaggiebunnett]

In May I found myself with 2 14 year old's discos (middle school graduation here in the US) and also the "Project graduation" (18 year olds) gig for the town I live in, its an over night gig for about 200 kids with sports and local Garage bands and an old fart DJ...ME!!.
Anyways.. leading up to these gigs I immersed myself in young music which I like anyway (but not all the time) and that done the trick. I felt young and old at the same time...some sort of mid life crisis I'm sure.
My wife likes Jazz and its hard to get her to listen to the new stuff so it was hard to get into it but Im glad I did because it got me up to date once again.
Now for the Summer its all Weddings..lol:zip:

[rob1963]

at the end of the day we all play the same 500 songs when it comes down to it


Well Rob does anyway

Absolutely right...

...And so do most other DJs...because that's what the majority of clients want.


It's perfectly possible to look young without looking ridiculous - it's like the saying goes "Style never goes out of fashion"

Yes, but when someone aged nearly 50 tries to dress like a 15 year old, he WILL look ridiculous.

[Corabar Steve]

So is his name Joe or not?????

[rob1963]

So is his name Joe or not?????

If that was a joke, I'm afraid it went way over my head, Steve... :confused:

...but the answer to your question is no.

[Andy Westcott]

Original question:
"Would you book a young DJ of say under 18 to do your function?"

Yes, and have one booked for later in the year for a family birthday party.
As far as I'm concerned, if the younger DJ knows the music and has had some experience, what's the problem? Chances are he'd do as good a job as an older guy. Just because he wasn't around when the classics charted doesn't mean he can't play them;

I often play R&R tracks from the 50s & early 60s, but I wasn't around to hear them chart. Doesn't mean I don't like the music or don't have the tracks.

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

Original question:
"Would you book a young DJ of say under 18 to do your function?"

Yes, and have one booked for later in the year for a family birthday party.
As far as I'm concerned, if the younger DJ knows the music and has had some experience, what's the problem? Chances are he'd do as good a job as an older guy. Just because he wasn't around when the classics charted doesn't mean he can't play them;

I often play R&R tracks from the 50s & early 60s, but I wasn't around to hear them chart. Doesn't mean I don't like the music or don't have the tracks.

And where would an 18 year old gain the experience to read a dance floor and know when to play certain tunes?

[One Vision]

If I was to test you on you 80s classic metal, Tom, you'd fail. It's Megadeth - there is no second 'a'! But seriously, how often do we get asked for this music nowadays (unless we're doing rock nights)? I can't remember being asked for Megadeth ever and I started off doing rock nights when I was 18.

As for hiring a young DJ for a wedding then I'd have to say no. I'd want someone who can handle the stress and think quickly if something goes wrong. I strongly believe that these skills come with years of experience. I'll be looking for a DJ for my wedding in 2010 soon and (s)he'll need to be highly experienced!

Although I do train up DJs of all ages and use younger roadies/assistant DJs. So I don't think it's an ageist thing!

Never had requests for Megadeth at normal discos although guns n roses, ac-dc and a particular journey track "dont stop believing" are and quite often

[thex-faders]

And where would an 18 year old gain the experience to read a dance floor and know when to play certain tunes?

We are both 18 and I would say i know how to read a crowd, been DJ'ing since 2005. In three years or so we have gained so much knowledge in what songs go down well from different era's & genres. This was greately influened by my dad being a DJ for over 30 years [Jolly Rogers Disco - Anyone know them?] so i have been lucky enough to grow up with some knowledge of older songs.

But a lot of people will gain knowledge from disco's they have attendid in the past and remembered what went down well and what didnt. Also anyone can access chart hits from previous years. Sometimes you have to experiment with some songs to test the crowd?

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

We are both 18 and I would say i know how to read a crowd, been DJ'ing since 2005. In three years or so we have gained so much knowledge in what songs go down well from different era's & genres. This was greately influened by my dad being a DJ for over 30 years [Jolly Rogers Disco - Anyone know them?] so i have been lucky enough to grow up with some knowledge of older songs.

But a lot of people will gain knowledge from disco's they have attendid in the past and remembered what went down well and what didnt. Also anyone can access chart hits from previous years. Sometimes you have to experiment with some songs to test the crowd?

I have a DJ whose Dad also DJ'd for over 30 years and that has really helped him learn the music.

I am playing devil's advocate as I started fairly young and 'thought' I was fairly competant by 18, but it was a different game back then.

[thex-faders]

I think repeat bookings speaks for iteself in many cases though in terms of knowing how compitent you are in older music that you werent around to hear when it as released!

And I will also agree that when we do 16th, 18th birthdays etc we are in our eliment as we know what is popular.
But for weddings and 50th's etc we have enough knowledge of the typical hits and some obscure ones, which has come from 'experiance' of doing these events in the past.

[Tom]

If I was to test you on you 80s classic metal, Tom, you'd fail. It's Megadeth - there is no second 'a'! But seriously, how often do we get asked for this music nowadays (unless we're doing rock nights)? I can't remember being asked for Megadeth ever and I started off doing rock nights when I was 18.



I would fail you say, that sounds a bit harsh. Ok, I added one extra letter by accident, big whoop.:(

To be honest I don't get asked for this stuff either but I was only giving an example. All my life I have been listening to Rock and Heavy Metal, mostly metal as this is my favourite genre.

[DJWayne]

I have been around disco's since i could walk basically my dad was a dj up until i got to about 20. I started on my own at 15 doing youth clubs etc then moved into the pubs. From spending so much time on the road from such a young age i learned the music and which tracks worked and which didn't but i still had a lot to learn.

I worked for a very experienced and knowledgeable DJ who taught me the 50's , 60's music resulting in me doing specialist 60's nights when i was 16.

I worked for another DJ who was a 70's and 80's nut and learned loads from him while still doing a few gigs of my own.

I started doing weddings when i was 18 and jave never looked back but i did have a lot of experience behind me.

A lot of DJ's can spout the most popular tracks by name the professional DJ can hear the track in his head when the client asks for it and has already figured out at which point it would have most effect.

Admittedly i am bit of a music geek i love all types of music and can even remeber what label the 7" singles were for a lot of them. I don't say that younger DJ's are not capable but musical knowledge is something that has to be learned over time just getting the gear and what you think are the right tracks is not enough only tim working and making the odd mistake gives you the experience needed in my opinion.

[sleah]

<snip>:D .
:moon: :moon: :moon: :moon: :ner:


Any road up, 'bout 6 years ago I did a run of 13th's, they were all girls who attended the school I work at, initial contact was through one of their parents who is on the PTA. I was 33 then, they loved what I did for them, they (seemed) to like me:whistle: Me being a similar age to their parents was most definately NOT an issue.:cool:
I did a run of 16th's a year or so after for a similar group, same reactions.
It may have helped that I knew most of them as 'the techie guy' from school, but even so, kids can be stubborn when it comes to ageism.

:DJ:
You simply cannot pigeon hole DJ's on the basis of age alone.:p

[rob1963]

As far as I'm concerned, if the younger DJ knows the music and has had some experience, what's the problem?

The problem is that a young DJ will have very little experience.


Chances are he'd do as good a job as an older guy.

If he has very little experience, the chances are he'd NOT do as good a job as an older guy.


Just because he wasn't around when the classics charted doesn't mean he can't play them

Correct, but there's a lot more to doing a disco that just putting songs on.

[DazzyD]

Never had requests for Megadeth at normal discos although guns n roses, ac-dc and a particular journey track "dont stop believing" are and quite often

Don't Stop Believing is in my top 20 most requested tracks for any function. Along with Summer Of 69 and Living On A Prayer. Mind you, Rockstar by Nickelback is catching up fast.


I would fail you say, that sounds a bit harsh. Ok, I added one extra letter by accident, big whoop.:(

To be honest I don't get asked for this stuff either but I was only giving an example. All my life I have been listening to Rock and Heavy Metal, mostly metal as this is my favourite genre.

Sorry if I caused offence, Tom. It was only meant to be a tongue-in-cheek comment after you said you'd quiz any potential DJ and his knowledge would have to be spot on (or words to that effect). I am (or at least was in my wasted youth) a big heavy rock fan and I've seen Megadeth live along with the likes of Slayer, Pantera, Metallica, W.A.S.P.(a personal favourite!) and Skid Row. In fact, a great favourite of mine I didn't get to see and that was Alice Cooper. I would have loved that!

[Twinspin]

The journey - dont stop believin.... someone requests that at every function i do. Its big in Hull that tune.

[Corabar Steve]

If that was a joke, I'm afraid it went way over my head, Steve... :confused:
No it refered to a question that I asked you in a post that you responded to something else in, so I assumed you read it all. In case you missed it...

Is his name Joe by any chance?


In fact, a great favourite of mine I didn't get to see and that was Alice Cooper. I would have loved that!What's stopping you? He's still touring. (although was better when Alice Cooper was a they rather than a he) You've only just missed his last tour, I dare say he'll tour again.

[PropellerHeadCase]

In fact, a great favourite of mine I didn't get to see and that was Alice Cooper.

Have seen Alice... 'twas every bit as good as you'd expect :D

He's playing the UK in July isn't he?