For many aspiring entertainers, stepping up to perform in front of a crowd is a terrifying prospect. However, at some point in their career, all performers must deal with that fear. DJ stage fright is something that can be overcome, with proper preparation.
Be Prepared
Sounds simple, but the unexpected has a habit of spoiling the party. It’s best to control whatever can be controlled. Make a checklist of everything you need, that way there is no chance that something crucial, such as a hard drive, can be forgotten.
Know The Equipment
Do research if necessary to find out what type of console and monitor setup the club uses. There was a DJ who went all the way to MOS Singapore for a gig, only to find out they didn’t have turntables. It was a long journey home.
Have A Contingency Plan
There is no way of knowing what a DJ’s set will sound like. It all depends on the room, the audience and the performer’s mood. If you are sharing the stage with another performer, it’s a good idea to have a few different starting points, at various BPMs and levels of energy.
Breathe
Being on stage is a scary experience. At any moment, a combination of adrenalin and self-doubt can lead to DJ stage fright. Simply take a deep breath on stage to achieve a calming effect. Deep breathing is a type of meditation that can be done anywhere.
Don’t Mind Hecklers
Hecklers manage to make their way into every type of performance. At comedy shows, concerts or plays, there’s always someone waiting to mess with the performer. Don’t let hecklers interrupt the flow of your set. Keep mixing, and don’t be afraid to call them out on their behavior with some sort of witty retort.
Don’t Over Think It
Most DJs agree that the best sets usually involve a certain degree of improvisation. Having a pre-determined mix at a show can set you up for failure. Good DJs are creative, and the real fun begins when performers go off-road and explore uncharted territories.
Featured image by RUKES
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