Move the crowd, digital style.
For many, the days of spinning vinyl records on two turntables are long gone. These days, DJs can use many other options to move the crowd. If you are a virtual DJ using MP3s and seek to make your experience run as smoothly and effective as possible, there are several tips to help you along the way.
Software
As a virtual DJ, software is very important. MP3 DJ software will help you to get a feel for mixing a track into another and matching beats before purchasing a real set. This is done through your computer just as you would use a turntable or CD mixing console. When you insert the DJ software disc in, a virtual console will appear on your screen giving you several options to get you on your way, including equalizers, a cross-fader that fades from one track to the next, and your customized music playlist. MP3 DJ software also gives you the tools you will need to burn your mixes onto a CD. Virtual DJ software is priced in the range $35 to approximately $300, depending on whether it will include the basic controls or a full-on studio mixing board. Many of the software programs are available online for a free trial period.
Equipment Options
Now that you have chosen to be a virtual DJ, there are different equipment options you can choose. You can mix directly from your laptop console, using the music playlists you have compiled on your computer and your chosen MP3 DJ software, you can transfer the MP3s and burn them directly to blank CDs, or you can drag your MP3s to two different IPods or MP3 players. If you do not wish to lug your laptop around to every gig, the best choice would be either to use CDs or use your MP3 players. If you choose to do so, you will need to purchase a CD DJ mixer for the CDs or a standard DJ mixer for your players.
Where To Get MP3s
There are many online options to purchase the MP3s you will be mixing including: Rhapsody.com, Napster.com and Amazon.com. All of them allow you to either pay per downloaded song or purchase a monthly subscription to the service to be able to download all you want. This can range from 99 cents per track to $15 per month. You can also transfer your chosen tracks from CDs to your computer, which will be copied to your computer as MP3s using Windows Player or Real Player.
Promote Yourself
These days, virtual DJs are the most prominent types of disc jockeys in the mainstream club circuit. The best way to get your name out there is to promote yourself where many people are available. This can be done by creating your own website and promoting yourself on social networking sites such as Facebook, Myspace and Twitter. Create fliers and pass them out in the areas where the clubs are. Put ads in your local newspapers reflecting what type of music you provide and the types of events your available for. Once word of mouth starts spreading, you will be well on your way.
Licensing
If you will be a club DJ, in some cases, you will be required to obtain a DJ license or a license to play the MP3s you have downloaded. The laws vary by country, so be sure to check with an ASCAP or RIAA representative concerning the necessary licenses before accepting any proposed position.
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