Tips and Tricks for Intermediate-level DJs

DJing is like playing baseball. There isn't a wrong way to hit the ball.....as long as it works for you. Every DJ has unique quirks and talents that will showcase themselves in their on-stage antics. Here are some universal tips, however, that will help to level the playing field.

• Old songs are difficult to match. The beats, timings, and music production software was incredibly different back then, and trying to make an Elvis beat fit to LMFAO can be a project in frustration. If you really want to do this, however, check out how Kanye West does it. He's become very good at mixing old songs into his new beats.
• Instead of playing with the same timing - like 16 bars in, 16 bars out with the intro/outro matching, instead try to change it around. This will keep the audience on its toes, and keep you from sounding too predictable. For example, try a 4 bar outro for the one song and a 12 bar into for the next one. You can make it work!
• Ever heard of a slipmat? They can be useful. Essentially, they're felt pads that sit between your turntable and the desk. It allows the turntable to keep turning while the DJ holds the record.

Also, here's an interesting article on what the song of the summer will be. 

CNN Article for DJs

I'm pulling for the Lazy Song by Bruno Mars, but let's hope something new and better comes out soon.