Would you turn around and go home?

[Javlingames]

If you arrived at a venue to find it was a Gypsy wedding?

I have a friend who has just arrived at a function and has seen that its a gypsy wedding. He is staying on to do the function!

Your thoughts please

[dmckaraoke]

A wedding is a wedding surely...

[ppentertainments]

A wedding is a wedding surely...

Yes, and terms and conditions should cover for any trouble. I have refused gigs from venues and families with a bad reputation, but I think having taken the booking I would go ahead with it.

[Javlingames]

A wedding is a wedding surely...

Have you done one before then?

[rob1963]

Yes, and terms and conditions should cover for any trouble. I have refused gigs from venues and families with a bad reputation, but I think having taken the booking I would go ahead with it.

Agreed.

[Javlingames]

Ive done a few over the years and they are more interested in beating the living daylights out of each other than the dj.

[Digitalsounds]

had this problem a few years ago

turned up to one of the larger regular venues, to find a room already full of to be honest totaly blatted people who turned out to be an irish gypsy family,

started loading in the gear, family start moaning at the door being open lol

setup and the bride comes up and says she wants shakira playing as first song ok no problem.

then she wants 6 / 7 first dances and hands me a cd again no problem.

by the middle of the night shakira had been played about 6 times already after major demands from ths bride.

we then start gettin blokes coming up asking for tunes to be played NOW so we would be playin a track and then have to stop and switch track which i hated but my mife is more than a track is worth, to then have the bride come up asking for more shakira.

at this point i have called in the backup just incase.... as was sweating fter a few threats.

to top the lot the family then started a fight out in the bar area which was carmed down, about 30 min later a roit then proceeded to start out in the bar and finally the venue called the police in after one of there staff was threatened with a knife...

Never again never. it just aint worth it.

[soundtracker]

I'd like to think that by the time I had arrived at a venue I would have a fair idea about my clients. I usually meet my clients beforehand, but even when I don't I have a good chat with them ahead of the day, and usually with the venue as well.

[Javlingames]

I'd like to think that by the time I had arrived at a venue I would have a fair idea about my clients. I usually meet my clients beforehand, but even when I don't I have a good chat with them ahead of the day, and usually with the venue as well.

And if you met them and they were gypsys would you fulfil the booking?

[Bouncy Dancefloor]

very often gypsys get someone who sounds nice and pleasant on the phone to do the booking, ive been caught out by this one a few times

[soundtracker]

And if you met them and they were gypsys would you fulfil the booking?

No I don't do riff-raff of any denomination colour or creed.

[par6]

I've done a few, always found them to be polite and awash with cash :eek: had some big tips at end of the night due to them being blind drunk :D
S'funny how all the men and all the women sit apart :confused: , oh and there are gypsies and there are gypsies, the English travelling gangs tend to be skint, scruffy and scum, the Irish tend to be very smart and up for a party, 'tis a strange world ;)

[andyw]

surely ounce youve taken the deposit and presumably the money before the event then you should honor the booking. would you put on your website you might not fulfill the gig under certain circumstances. would like to see the reaction you would get by saying i'm not playing for a load of gypo's and trying to get back in your car:bang:

[Shakermaker Promotions]

It's down to preparation isn't it?
If you have gone and met them beforehand and got the feeling that it may not be your cup of tea then you can make your excuses once you get home ("My apologies, I seem to have got my dates confused and I am actually booked already" type stuff).
I don't think you can stereotype them or put them all in the same mould though. I have done one function for the gypsies/travellers brigade and it went ok. They were more interested in the alcohol and it was the women that were more of a pain in the backside but at the end of the day, it was a booking. If you don't feel safe or you are uneasy about doing the job then pass it on or make your excuses.

Turn around and go home? Not me, if I am booked...I'm booked.

[Dynamic Entertainment]

First question, Gypsy or Traveller? there is a difference, i know a few gypsy famlies that have settled down and are great. They dont like travellers who get slung wyth the name gypsy, and to be honest all the true gypsys ive met has been polite, well mannered and generally nice people. Travellers on the other hand........ :)

[DJ James Lake]

I've done plenty and as long as you treat them with respect and that nothing is too much trouble (which it should be with every client anyway (even if you have to play the same song many times), you will be fine.

If you keep them happy they tip big.

[DeckstarDeluxe]

I take deposits and 99% of the time is done by cheque. I doubt very much that i would have this proplem. If i did turn up and there was gypsys or travellers i'd get straight out of there. Amount my kit is worth, my personal wellbeing etc.. isnt worth it.

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

How can any of you possibly say that you'd just leave?

What possible reason could you leave someone without a disco at their wedding?

Why do you think we are held in such low esteem by a lot of the general public?

God, threads like this make me mad.

If you've taken the booking, then honour it.

[Excalibur]

No I don't do riff-raff of any denomination colour or creed.
Snob. :p :D I do. :( :D :D


I've done plenty and as long as you treat them with respect and that nothing is too much trouble (which it should be with every client anyway (even if you have to play the same song many times), you will be fine.
.



Turn around and go home? Not me, if I am booked...I'm booked.

Same hymnsheet lads. ;) :D


How can any of you possibly say that you'd just leave?

What possible reason could you leave someone without a disco at their wedding?

Why do you think we are held in such low esteem by a lot of the general public?

God, threads like this make me mad.

If you've taken the booking, then honour it.
You don't know how pleased I am to see you say that Chief. Amen. ;)

[Tom]

First question, Gypsy or Traveller? there is a difference, i know a few gypsy famlies that have settled down and are great. They dont like travellers who get slung wyth the name gypsy, and to be honest all the true gypsys ive met has been polite, well mannered and generally nice people. Travellers on the other hand........ :)

I agree with that 100%

My fiancee is half Irish. Her mum is full irish and her dad is english.

Now, her mum's were real true Gypsys, when they lived in ireland (about 40 years ago now) living in wooden waggons and the rest. Very very kind people and look after each other. All for one, one for all kind of attitude. If someone has a problem they everyone is there.

[Shakermaker Promotions]

Some people seem to TALK a good game but then spoil it all by saying things like "I'd turnaround and go home...".

Totally out of order in my opinion and as Darren rightly said, it's that kind of attitude that gives the whole Mobile DJ business a bad name. Also, on another note...Why should anyone ASSUME that because they are known as Gypsies or Travellers or whatever, that there will be trouble? It is stereotyping and almost bordering prejudice. Ok, I can understand if a booking came in for a venue that was well known for being dodgy and full of trouble and in reality it wasn't a great idea to go there as it wasn't safe, yes you may not want to do it but wouldn't you turn that down on the initial enquiry and as I said earlier...make your excuses? Why should you take a booking and then turnaround when you get there because the people MAY just not be to your liking?

Bloody stupid.

[Grahame Case]

i'd take the booking, and not have any problems about it.

doesn't matter to me what religion, disability or anything people are, they are all equally entitled to hire my services/

in fact i have a booking next month for a group of Learning and physically Disabled adults, the lady booking at the time asked if this was going to be a problem. I said, of course it isn't, and nothing would be too much trouble with regards to special arrangements for volume and lighting.

If they are willing to pay the money, i'm willing to go out and perform my very best for them, regardless of who they are.

[DeckstarDeluxe]

its abit more than not being to our liking hahaha Its personal safety, its the riots, the knifes, the fights why on earth would you put yourself in the middle of that with all your nice equipment? Ok so we shouldnt pigeonhole all of them but if i felt this was going to happean at my gig i wouldnt do it pure and simple.

[DeckstarDeluxe]

i'd take the booking, and not have any problems about it.

doesn't matter to me what religion, disability or anything people are, they are all equally entitled to hire my services/

in fact i have a booking next month for a group of Learning and physically Disabled adults, the lady booking at the time asked if this was going to be a problem. I said, of course it isn't, and nothing would be too much trouble with regards to special arrangements for volume and lighting.

If they are willing to pay the money, i'm willing to go out and perform my very best for them, regardless of who they are.

thats a complety different group of people. How is learning and physically disabled adults got anything in common with travellers etc..?

[Excalibur]

Some people seem to TALK a good game but then spoil it all by saying things like "I'd turnaround and go home...".

Totally out of order in my opinion and as Darren rightly said, it's that kind of attitude that gives the whole Mobile DJ business a bad name. Also, on another note...Why should anyone ASSUME that because they are known as Gypsies or Travellers or whatever, that there will be trouble? It is stereotyping and almost bordering prejudice. Ok, I can understand if a booking came in for a venue that was well known for being dodgy and full of trouble and in reality it wasn't a great idea to go there as it wasn't safe, yes you may not want to do it but wouldn't you turn that down on the initial enquiry and as I said earlier...make your excuses? Why should you take a booking and then turnaround when you get there because the people MAY just not be to your liking?

Bloody stupid.

Aha, the salient point. ;) ;) Gary, that's absolutely right.
Of course, if it's a reputable venue, with no warning bells, you have to as many of us have said, just carry on and do the gig.

[Shakermaker Promotions]

Deckstar - Do me a favour!
What is stopping anyone at any function doing any of the above? If we all thought like that then we wouldn't be going out into the unknown every week would we? I do pubs, clubs and private functions so I would be totally up the creek and working back in an office if I felt like that. Yes, there are idiots about allover the place, they could be anywhere, there could be one at a wedding that gets stroppy after a few drinks but I won't let that stop me from doing my job.

[Grahame Case]

thats a complety different group of people. How is learning and physically disabled adults got anything in common with travellers etc..?


it's merely illustrating that you should be free of any prejudices when you are making a business decision like this.

When i'm working i leave my prejudices well away from any decision i make.

We are Professionals

[Penfold42]

I'd like to think that by the time I had arrived at a venue I would have a fair idea about my clients. I usually meet my clients beforehand, but even when I don't I have a good chat with them ahead of the day, and usually with the venue as well.
:agree:


How can any of you possibly say that you'd just leave?

What possible reason could you leave someone without a disco at their wedding?

Why do you think we are held in such low esteem by a lot of the general public?

If you've taken the booking, then honour it.
:agree:, :agree:, :agree: and :agree: again.

[DeckstarDeluxe]

Deckstar - Do me a favour!
What is stopping anyone at any function doing any of the above? If we all thought like that then we wouldn't be going out into the unknown every week would we? I do pubs, clubs and private functions so I would be totally up the creek and working back in an office if I felt like that. Yes, there are idiots about allover the place, they could be anywhere, there could be one at a wedding that gets stroppy after a few drinks but I won't let that stop me from doing my job.

True, a very small percentage. I do think the percentage is slighty higher at a gypsies/travellers wedding though! Its not worth the considerable increase

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

If I was a member of the public was looking at the forum Deckstar, I certainly wouldn't be booking you for anything.

You might turn up, not like the look of the guests and drive off again.

Very reliable.

[wensleydale]

Is this not verging on racist and at the very least a huge generalisation.


I especially liked the "they might get someone else to book you " for them comment.

[Shakermaker Promotions]

I didn't want to use that word so I said prejudice instead, same thing at the end of the day.

Think of it this way Deckstar - What would your reaction be if someone called you up and made an enquiry, was interested in all of the information you gave etc etc etc and then pulled out of the booking at the last moment because they thought that you were too young for the job?

[wensleydale]

I didn't want to use that word so I said prejudice instead, same thing at the end of the day.

Think of it this way Deckstar - What would your reaction be if someone called you up and made an enquiry, was interested in all of the information you gave etc etc etc and then pulled out of the booking at the last moment because they thought that you were too young for the job?

or didnt book you because you were english?

[Dynamic Entertainment]

Exactly Richard, No one would dare to stay that tey would leave if the group was coloured would they. This is no different. I would do the gig personally, but i can hold my own if need be (i wouldnt intentionally put myself in the situation of having to, but you never know). I wouldnt envisage having to either as the meetings beforehand mean im on to a decent relationship with the client. If they client is problematic (or we just cannot get on (hasnt happened tyet mind :) )) from the word go then, regardless of who they are, i would suggest they find another dj me doing the gig would not be best for them. I wouldnt drive away from a gig on the day night though.

[Shakermaker Promotions]

Exactly, the list could go on and on...
I think certain people should really think about what they say on a forum that is accessible by the public.

[DeckstarDeluxe]

I didn't want to use that word so I said prejudice instead, same thing at the end of the day.

Think of it this way Deckstar - What would your reaction be if someone called you up and made an enquiry, was interested in all of the information you gave etc etc etc and then pulled out of the booking at the last moment because they thought that you were too young for the job?

Has happeaned but nothing i can do cant put on a grey beard can i haha

I have had dealings with my day job and a few other experiences with travellers and gypsys and i gotta say it was all negative. This isnt the case of not liking the look of someone before we go down that path any futher. If my gut told me there was going to be trouble then yes i would turn around. In all fairness ive not had this proplem thus far and until it does its hard to say for sure what i would do. I'd just like to point you guys to some stories people have told on this very forum about such events.

[Shakermaker Promotions]

As has been said before already, you (or anyone) wouldn't be in the position of having to turn around and go home if you'd (or anyone) met the people beforehand. If you get a bad feeling when you meet them then you can make your excuses can't you.

I think turning around and going home on the night of someone's function when they have booked you is plain and simply out of order.

And for the record, I have had one personal experience which I mentioned earlier on in the thread - No problems at all.

[tc1ooo]

I did 3 gypsy events, years ago. I would never ever do one again.

[Shakermaker Promotions]

So, if they were that bad, WHY did you do the other 2 after you'd done the first one?...and why were they so bad for you to say "Never again"?

[Penfold42]

So, if they were that bad, WHY did you do the other 2 after you'd done the first one?...and why were they so bad for you to say "Never again"?

Just what I was thinking.....:confused:

[Excalibur]

Just what I was thinking.....:confused:

Lack of prior knowledge or perhaps a bit of " misinformation" :confused: ;) ;)
It has been known. I have a story about that too, I feel a thread coming on. ;) :D

[DeckstarDeluxe]

as in someone else has asked him to cover and "FORGOT" to mention that? yeah ive heard that one a fair few times too.

[andyw]

nice thing about this thread it shows everyone that it is not always the cheap disco's or cowboys that are willing to let customers down.
if you take on a booking you honor it full stop with very few exceptions and the client being a gypsy is not one of them

[Shakermaker Promotions]

Well said....short and straight to the point!

[Disco Leisure UK]

I did a wedding gig for proper Irish gypsies about 3 years ago, it was in a stately home near Leeds. Both families were very rowdy and sang to virtually every song spilling beer all over the place, but.....it was a great night, no fighting even though the bride was flashing her boobs all night..:eek: :D , got a very nice tip at the end of the night from the bride's father...I would most definitely do it all again.

[nigelwright7557]

Gypsies are a breeze, you should try having 10 kids climbing all over your gear !

[soundtracker]

Gypsies are a breeze, you should try having 10 kids climbing all over your gear !

Idiot!

[Penfold42]

Idiot!

Under statement of the year.

[andyw]

is it in your t & c that you will refuse to play if you don't like the clients, do you ask any potential customers if they are related to gypsies,if you really would turn around and go home then imo you should make that clear on your booking form and website so they have the opportunaty to book someone who will fullfill the event,then when you do the walk of shame (again imo) you can say you made it clear and they are in breach of your t&c,otherwise what excuse would you make up for leaving them without the entertainment that they booked and paid for.

[rob1963]

Going home because you don't like the look of the client is one of the things you might expect a COWBOY to do...but NOT a professional disco.

[501damian501]

If you arrived at a venue to find it was a Gypsy wedding?

I have a friend who has just arrived at a function and has seen that its a gypsy wedding. He is staying on to do the function!

Your thoughts please

traveller partys, one of my BIGGEST paying customers:D

[501damian501]

I've done a few, always found them to be polite and awash with cash :eek: had some big tips at end of the night due to them being blind drunk :D
S'funny how all the men and all the women sit apart :confused: , oh and there are gypsies and there are gypsies, the English travelling gangs tend to be skint, scruffy and scum, the Irish tend to be very smart and up for a party, 'tis a strange world ;)

very wrong! the irish came over to flee the war in northern ireland, travellers are travellers and believe me we all have cash!

[DeckstarDeluxe]

Going home because you don't like the look of the client is one of the things you might expect a COWBOY to do...but NOT a professional disco.

Its not the look but if your gut feeling says theres going to be alot of trouble or you fear for your own safety then i would certainly not be afaird to turn round.

[501damian501]

Its not the look but if your gut feeling says theres going to be alot of trouble or you fear for your own safety then i would certainly not be afaird to turn round.

cut out the pussy footing...

[andyw]

Its not the look but if your gut feeling says theres going to be alot of trouble or you fear for your own safety then i would certainly not be afaird to turn round.

you can't go on gut feeling,or i can't mines always wrong.if you turned up and they threatened you or during the event were threatened then it would not matter to me wheteher they are gypsies or royalty i would go home,but thats not the question.the question is would you turn around if they turned out tobe gypsies no threats or intimidation on arrival.

[Grahame Case]

Deckstar, i really hate to say this, but if i was a client looking to book your services and read your posts i would really be worried that you would turn up and go home if you saw we weren't "your type of client"

In My Opinion, it isn't very professional, or business sense to just attend a gig and decide you don't like it.

[Mark Wild]

cut out the pussy footing...

:Laugh: Your best post IMO to date fella, lol

[tc1ooo]

So, if they were that bad, WHY did you do the other 2 after you'd done the first one?...and why were they so bad for you to say "Never again"?

I didn't know any of them were gypsy events until i got there. The first one was really bad, the second was really really bad, and the third I was lucky to get out alive, and I didn't even get paid.

[DJWilson]

If you could sense trouble when you arrive fair enough deckstar but I suppose that could go with ANY party,event,gig.

[BeerFunk]

The other thing to consider is that a large amount of 'travellers/gypsies/whatever you want to call them' would be difficult to take legal action against. Is the contract just a worthless piece of paper?

[andyw]

I didn't know any of them were gypsy events until i got there. The first one was really bad, the second was really really bad, and the third I was lucky to get out alive, and I didn't even get paid.

so if you were booked now and they turned out to be gypsies would you just walk away, and surely you are paid before you start

[DazzyD]

This is the most shocking thread I've read in a long time on any forum! :eek:

Shame on anyone who says they'd turn around and go home before a track has been played. If you're that scared then you shouldn't be working in an industry around alcohol. Any function can turn to violence when booze in involved so how anyone can discriminate against gypsy weddings is beyond me. Give me a true gypsy wedding over "charva" functions or the kind of gigs that Charlie seems to do any day. I've always found true gypsies to be the life and soul of the party. The last (maybe not Gypsy but) Irish wedding I did the folk were all quite merry when the arrived. In fact, so much so, that they were dancing during my sound check at 6.30pm (7.30pm start!) and they didn't stop all night! Lots of irish tunes - pogues, dubliners, van morrison - it was great!

And as for not being paid, all of our weddings are paid in advance. No problems getting paid then.


Deckstar, i really hate to say this, but if i was a client looking to book your services and read your posts i would really be worried that you would turn up and go home if you saw we weren't "your type of client"

In My Opinion, it isn't very professional, or business sense to just attend a gig and decide you don't like it.

I actually agree with this. I certainly wouldn't use an operator who said he would turn around and go home if he didn't like the look of people. Good post, Grahame!

[nigelwright7557]

This is the most shocking thread I've read in a long time on any forum! :eek:
!

At the end of the day a disco is a place of work and the DJ is not there to be abused.

Personally, I would see how the gig went and not just disappear coz I didnt like the look of the crowd.

There is a line to cross and once that line is crossed I turn off the disco until things are sorted out. Luckily this has just happened once with me and that was after a load of kids started messing around with my gear. It was quickly sorted out by the client.

[Danieleastwood.com]

I would never turn around before I had even played a track. I would remain as polite as I would if it were the queen that had booked me.

If I have an uncertainty about a gig, then I would just enquire with the staff of the venue about how they felt. And ONLY WHEN I GET TROUBLE, and not before, would I start to pack away very rapidly.

I witnessed the worst bar fight I had ever seen when I was the DJ at Jaks bar in Butlins Skeggy. It was all travellers, while staff and punters were evacuated down the fire escapes. But then last September, I DJ'd a wedding for a family of Gypsies, one of the most memorable nights ever! It was brilliant.

So to sum up what this whole thread is about...

Be carefull how you generalise,
Be carefull how you judge the 'book by its cover'
If you criticise professionalism, then you need to be a professional also (surely)

[Shakermaker Promotions]

I agree 100% entirely with what DazzyD has said and they were my own thoughts a while back in this thread.
I know forums are all about opinions etc and you should ideally be allowed to say what you like (within reason obviously), but at the end of the day (again), this forum can be seen by members of the public, members of the public who maybe, just maybe...are looking in and checking out what some of us are like etc with view to a booking? Ok, maybe not you never know do you and if I were inclined to do that and saw what some of the people on here have written...well, there is no way that I would contact any of them regarding a booking. I would be worried that I would be throwing money down the drain.

..and Nigel, YOU SEEM to be an expert on everything...Ok, so you have your own experiences to shout about and by the sounds of it, they weren't that great but come on man, use your brain for once. Calling certain groups of people "thieves and troublemakers" isn't going to do you any favours is it? Not be funny at all, just think that once again, some people on here quickly write down stuff before they actually think of what it will look like in the light of day when everyone can see it.

[501damian501]

The other thing to consider is that a large amount of 'travellers/gypsies/whatever you want to call them' would be difficult to take legal action against. Is the contract just a worthless piece of paper?

whys this, most of them own very succesful businesses, pay their taxes and live their life!

[nigelwright7557]

whys this, most of them own very succesful businesses, pay their taxes and live their life!

We get a lot of from the north east where the Vikings used to come and rape and pillage.

I had some serious trouble with 4 lads who decided they were going to tarmac my drive whether I wanted it or not ! The abuse got so bad I had to call the police.

[Dynamic Entertainment]

It shames me to say, but im kind of with Damien on this one. :D Ive never had a problem at events with them. Generally i meet the client before hand and everything is square, im forewarned that its a rowdy bunch and the last time i was told if theres any trouble, to sout of the birthday boy over.

Trouble started as i wouldnt play a song straight away, shout out, over came the birthday boy and told the other bloke to go and get a beer (slightly more swearing than that). Everything went great after that, everyone behaved themselves and had a good time.

Nigel - You probably head the news about the 3 lasses sown here who got assaulted...wasnt a gypsy/traveller anywhere in sight, and maybe your drive needed tarmac'd :D

[Javlingames]

A quick update for you, Ive had a txt from him earlier. I asked him if he was ok, he said 'just about, almost got bottled 3 times, ive never been so scared in my life'.

I will get the full details tomorrow most probably

[BeerFunk]

whys this, most of them own very succesful businesses, pay their taxes and live their life!Not from my understanding, but then again, that's all it is - an understanding. From your statement, you must know a large amount of these types of people, so I will take your word for it :)

[DeckstarDeluxe]

Just out of interest how many of the djs posting on here will take on any event? For starters i know Nigel doesnt do 18ths/21st? I know and heard of djs that dont do civil partnership weddings.

[nigelwright7557]

Just out of interest how many of the djs posting on here will take on any event? For starters i know Nigel doesnt do 18ths/21st? I know and heard of djs that dont do civil partnership weddings.

I am quite limited in what I take on.
I am not into drum/bass music so dont do 18th/21st.

Weddings seem to be a lot of hassle so i rarely do those.
Got talked into doing one and didnt enjoy it, simply too much pressure from the bride and groom.

I tend to end up doing 30th to 60th bithday gigs and I enjoy those.

I have done the odd engagement party but they tend to be young music which I am not an expert at.

I got asked to do a 60th party and when I got there they told me it was an 18th too ! :bang: Didnt turn out bad in the end as they mostly wanted heavy metal !

[ppentertainments]

Just out of interest how many of the djs posting on here will take on any event? For starters i know Nigel doesnt do 18ths/21st? I know and heard of djs that dont do civil partnership weddings.

I don't do gigs where they ask for a specific genre to be played all night that I am not comfortable with. These have included R'n'B nights, rap nights etc. Their are also a couple of 'known' venues I won't play in but apart from that anything goes.

[Shakermaker Promotions]

I will take on almost any event. 18th's & 21st's don't bother me at all because I keep up to date with everything that's out there. If people ask me for R'n'B then I'll play it....because it's my job, I may not like it but they are paying me. If someone wants me to mix up some dance tunes then I will do it...because it's my job...I may not like that either but I will do it.

Each to their own and all that but we are supplying a service and I like to be out there for customers.

Imagine going to a garage to get your car sorted (for example) and when you turn up they say "Sorry, we don't do Subaru's, we don't like them". That would sound bloody stupid and that's how I see some of the replies on here.

You advertise as a Disco with a massive database or range of music covering all styles etc yet you turn down 18th's & 21st's and won't play the likes of R'n'B etc... I can't stand R'n'B or the attitude that commonly goes with it BUT at the end of the day, it's work and more importantly....money. I don't expect Mr Office Bloke goes into work and says to his boss "I don't want to do any photocopying or spreadsheets today as I don't like them"...What do you think the answer would be to that eh!?

If there are Discos out there that won't cater for 18th's or 21st's or play certain genres of music....WHY don't they advertise that fact then? The only time I will turn work down is if (a) I am already booked (b) My other DJ's are booked too so I can't take anything else on, (c) The venue is renowned for trouble.

[Jonathan Ford]

I will take on almost any event. 18th's & 21st's don't bother me at all because I keep up to date with everything that's out there. If people ask me for R'n'B then I'll play it....because it's my job, I may not like it but they are paying me. If someone wants me to mix up some dance tunes then I will do it...because it's my job...I may not like that either but I will do it.

Each to their own and all that but we are supplying a service and I like to be out there for customers.

Imagine going to a garage to get your car sorted (for example) and when you turn up they say "Sorry, we don't do Subaru's, we don't like them". That would sound bloody stupid and that's how I see some of the replies on here.

You advertise as a Disco with a massive database or range of music covering all styles etc yet you turn down 18th's & 21st's and won't play the likes of R'n'B etc... I can't stand R'n'B or the attitude that commonly goes with it BUT at the end of the day, it's work and more importantly....money. I don't expect Mr Office Bloke goes into work and says to his boss "I don't want to do any photocopying or spreadsheets today as I don't like them"...What do you think the answer would be to that eh!?

If there are Discos out there that won't cater for 18th's or 21st's or play certain genres of music....WHY don't they advertise that fact then? The only time I will turn work down is if (a) I am already booked (b) My other DJ's are booked too so I can't take anything else on, (c) The venue is renowned for trouble.

Generally, this.

I don't enjoy doing 16/18/21st birthdays, as I don't keep as up to date as I should. What I mean by that, is that I can manage say, half an hour of dance music or R and B in a "regular" night, but I'd struggle to do a whole night of it well. Having said that, I did a couple of "young" birthdays a month ago and really enjoyed them.

I suppose what I'm saying is that I won't take on any work when I'm in a situation where I feel I won't be able to give the client my best. I'd much rather that the client booked someone else and had a great night, than have a lousy night because I don't know much about hip hop.

[Shakermaker Promotions]

That's understandable and a good reasoning why. I always want to give my best and you have said it yourself that you don't keep as up to date as you should. I think it's one of the most important things to do to be honest.
I listen to different radio shows, may have MTV on in the background sometimes just to hear what is out and about or coming up in the future. I also get lots of promos which helps.

(Mods) Apologies for going off topic.

[rob1963]

I suppose what I'm saying is that I won't take on any work when I'm in a situation where I feel I won't be able to give the client my best. I'd much rather that the client booked someone else and had a great night, than have a lousy night because I don't know much about hip hop.

I think you're saying you won't take on a job where you feel that your best won't be good enough, and where you feel there are plenty of other operators who could do a better job.

If that IS what you're saying, then I'm exactly the same, which is why I don't do kids parties, 18ths, 21sts or certain themed events such as hip hop nights or trance nights.

[Shakermaker Promotions]

To be totally honest though Rob, do you get many enquiries for specific genre nights?
I don't. I may get follow on work from my Indie or Retro nights or I may get bookings for 70s/80s nights for 30th/40th and 50th birthdays etc but as yet, I haven't had anyone book me for (example) a whole night of R'n'B or Trance or Hip Hop etc... I HAVE had people ask if I could play predominantly one of those types of music and then party and chart etc around it but never a whole night. In the example I gave above, I worked with the customer to find out exactly what they wanted...Most of the time I had the tunes because I keep in touch with what is happening but the tunes I didn't have or hadn't heard...I sourced them.

[rob1963]

To be totally honest though Rob, do you get many enquiries for specific genre nights?
I don't.

No, Gary, and when I do, it's usually for a 60s 70s or 80s night, which I'm more than happy to do, as I think I can do as good a job as anyone else.

The point I'm making is that if someone wants something which I don't think I could do as well as I'd like, or where I feel someone else could do a far better job, then I'll turn down the gig & explain my reasons for doing so. In many cases, I'll also be able to recommend someone else who is more suited to the job.

I think this is the professional approach, as it puts the customer first, and helps to ensure they get exactly what they want & have a brilliant night.

I know a few people who take on stuff they don't know much about, simply because they're only thinking about the money rather than whether they can provide what the customer actually wants.

[Javlingames]

Ok back on topic my cyber friends.

I have just spoken to the DJ and he was pretty shaken up by his experience. He was asked for songs and told if he didnt play them next he would have a bottle smashed in his face, this happened 3 times by 3 different men, grown men trying to climb his powerdrive winch stands and monkey climb across his tri lite rig, lots of brawling and they wrecked the room too. He said that 400 were there, the floor was packed all night so it was good in that respect. He said he would never do it again, ever. The function was booked by a hotel he performs in regularly, he didnt know it was a gypsy wedding until he arrived, the hotel knew it was a gypsy wedding and got 3 bouncers in, who just did nothing apparently, just stood there watching the chaos around them. He said to me that he has £15,000 worth of equipment and for a £375.00 gig it wasnt worth it. He said next time he will pack up and go home.

[Corabar Steve]

I was going to post an in depth reply to this thread, but every post I read, I got more & more angry.

I have decided not to air my views on this subject for fear of breaking the :Censored: smilie with over use.

[Grahame Case]

I was going to post an in depth reply to this thread, but every post I read, I got more & more angry.

I have decided not to air my views on this subject for fear of breaking the :Censored: smilie with over use.

aww come on Steve, i want to read your post, we could try set a guinness world record for censored smilies

[andyw]

Just out of interest how many of the djs posting on here will take on any event? For starters i know Nigel doesnt do 18ths/21st? I know and heard of djs that dont do civil partnership weddings.

thats got nothing to do with this thread really, it don't matter whether you do certain gigs or not if you take a booking without doing the proper homework and turn up on the night,under no circumstances is it alright to turn arouynd and go home saying i didn't realise what sort of gig it is.you stay and do your best under those circumstances.yes your own safety is paramount but just thinking there might be trouble is not good enough reason.

[DeckstarDeluxe]

Ok back on topic my cyber friends.

I have just spoken to the DJ and he was pretty shaken up by his experience. He was asked for songs and told if he didnt play them next he would have a bottle smashed in his face, this happened 3 times by 3 different men, grown men trying to climb his powerdrive winch stands and monkey climb across his tri lite rig, lots of brawling and they wrecked the room too. He said that 400 were there, the floor was packed all night so it was good in that respect. He said he would never do it again, ever. The function was booked by a hotel he performs in regularly, he didnt know it was a gypsy wedding until he arrived, the hotel knew it was a gypsy wedding and got 3 bouncers in, who just did nothing apparently, just stood there watching the chaos around them. He said to me that he has £15,000 worth of equipment and for a £375.00 gig it wasnt worth it. He said next time he will pack up and go home.

Firstly very sorry to hear about that experience. Its things like that can put people off doing what is an awesome job.

Just a few points to back up what i said earlier

They failed to tell him it was a gypsy wedding. Why? They knew trouble was coming and got three bouncers in. Im betting they didnt tell you because you MAY of said sorry you didnt want to take on the function.

Why did the bouncers not do anything? I know plenty of doormen and they get abit scared sometimes but it never stops them doing their job protecting the safety of people working there as well as other customers.

I know im pretty unpopular with some members in here and i respect their views however none of us derserve to treated like this chap was. Its not the only story and im fully aware it COULD happean at any event but the chances are very low. With a gypsy wedding its alot higher and its just not worth the risk for me.

[yourdj]

Sounds like a great laugh. i like to be challenged. posh gigs get a bit boring after a while.

I have done many rough gigs and do not let anyone intimidate me. At least he had the doormen if it did properly kick off.

Insurance covers all damages too.

Money after setting up though.

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

I know im pretty unpopular with some members in here and i respect their views however none of us derserve to treated like this chap was. Its not the only story and im fully aware it COULD happean at any event but the chances are very low. With a gypsy wedding its alot higher and its just not worth the risk for me.

Better change this then.

[DeckstarDeluxe]

Sounds like a great laugh. i like to be challenged. posh gigs get a bit boring after a while.

I have done many rough gigs and do not let anyone intimidate me. At least he had the doormen if it did properly kick off.

Insurance covers all damages too.

Money after setting up though.

Doormen? Did you not read his post? They did nothing. :S

[Vectis]

Here you go. Nice piccy for your sig :D

[PropellerHeadCase]

Did you steal that from the lads at Top Gear?

[Babybob]

More snidey comments eh....

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

More snidey comments eh....

What are you talking about?

[Dynamic Entertainment]

Doormen? Did you not read his post? They did nothing. :S

Sounds like most of the doormen round here :D

[Bouncy Dancefloor]

theres a rule about travellers and fighting

dont get involved! If the doormen would have stepped in, they would have been destroyed

[Corabar Steve]

Indeed, the 2 warring factions would turn on a common enemy

[sleah]

At the end of the day a disco is a place of work and the DJ is not there to be abused.

Personally, I would see how the gig went and not just disappear coz I didnt like the look of the crowd.

There is a line to cross and once that line is crossed I turn off the disco until things are sorted out. Luckily this has just happened once with me and that was after a load of kids started messing around with my gear. It was quickly sorted out by the client.

I'm fairly well with Nigel on this one. I wouldn't go home just cause I didn't like the look of someone, indeed there could be repurcusions, don't forget if you have a contract, they know where you live:eek:

However, if you are threatened or abused then it's quite acceptable to stop working and leave. Even the humble DJ has the full protection of the law when it comes to haveing a safe working environment.

With so called Gypsies/Travellers, it's back to the old thing of the few spoiling it for the rest and them all being tarnished with the same brush.
Good on Damian for defending the good decent hard working travellers out there:D
The problem is we only ever get to hear about the bad lots:(

[rob1963]

I'm fairly well with Nigel on this one. I wouldn't go home just cause I didn't like the look of someone, indeed there could be repurcusions, don't forget if you have a contract, they know where you live:eek:

However, if you are threatened or abused then it's quite acceptable to stop working and leave. Even the humble DJ has the full protection of the law when it comes to haveing a safe working environment.

With so called Gypsies/Travellers, it's back to the old thing of the few spoiling it for the rest and them all being tarnished with the same brush.
Good on Damian for defending the good decent hard working travellers out there:D
The problem is we only ever get to hear about the bad lots:(

Wise words, Simon!

:thumbsup:

[Corabar Steve]

Indeed.

I've probably had more experience of travellers than most on this forum (with the exception of Pikey Damian) & there are good & bad, like with every level of society. There have been a number of times when travelers have helped me out of what could've turned into a very nasty situation.