Getting Gigs: Your first interaction with the promoter

I was a bit torn about how to approach this subject as some readers may take an honest perspective as wrong or think it comes from a place of ego on the promoter's side. As a semi-retired promoter who was once active at a high capacity, DJs reached out to me and all promoters regularly. I would guess at the peak of my career roughly 20-50 random DJs approached me or my partners weekly. There aren’t enough set times to give every single DJ a shot even if we put musical talent and business-based decisions aside. Probably 95% of DJs approach the whole situation badly. That's fair because there isn't a guide to guide you, and most of this industry is very gate-kept.?

We've all heard the saying, "It's who you know, not what you know", well I agree with the first half. However, if you don't know anyone yet, what should you do? I’ll address this after discussing where most DJs get it wrong.?

The biggest mistake I see DJs making in this first-ever interaction with a promoter is walking up to them, introducing yourself, and within minutes informing them you’re a DJ, then immediately asking to play. Now, I know this may come off egocentric but I promise it’s not and I’ll tell you why. If you come up to anyone in any industry and immediately proceed straight to a business conversation, you force that person to put on their business hat. The problem with a DJ trying to get a gig in this scenario is, as a promoter if we are just meeting you how are we supposed to say yes to asking for a gig? It would be irresponsible. We don’t know your sound yet or if you can play as well as you claim or if you can handle the pressure of playing in front of a crowd and making sure that crowd doesn’t walk out. So by asking for a gig so early in the relationship you either force a no answer or if the promoter isn’t mean they’ll respond something like sure hit me during the week and let’s talk which may sound positive but in reality, you’re also telling this promoter you only want one thing from them a gig. Remember, as promoters, the number of local and bedroom DJs seeking gigs is endless.

I truly hope this sticks with you, as you only get one first impression in life. Now, what’s the secret to getting this gig? Easy!!!

It's more simple and logical than you may think. Don’t ask for a gig at all!!!! It sounds crazy but in life, people give opportunities to people they genuinely like. This isn’t just for gigs but everything you want to get ahead in this business and other industries. Come out and meet the people you want to work with, offer them a drink, and have a cool conversation. Don't be weird, and don’t ask for favors. Developing a real relationship is the key to success. Just be one cool motherfucker.. Life is much easier when people like you and you like them and there’s no motive behind the friendship/relationship. They’ll know you’re a DJ eventually it’s only natural. If you play excellently, they’ll find out. Maybe it won’t happen overnight but when it does it won't be a one-and-done gig unless you fuck it up. It will be many gigs because now this industry person supports a friend, someone they like. We all want to see people we like succeed in life.

I can honestly say 90% of the DJs I've given a shot were because I genuinely liked them. After that, it was up to them to play well and keep growing.?

Hope this helps someone and please let me know how it turns out. I’ll write more pieces soon on other ways to be more bookable and grow.

ORIGINALLY WRITTEN FOR MY SUBSTACK

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DISCLAIMER

The insights presented in this piece are grounded in my personal experiences and interactions over my journey in the electronic music industry. It's essential to appreciate the industry's complexity, where nothing is purely black or white and every rule finds an exception. Nonetheless, your success fundamentally hinges on your inherent talent and unwavering commitment to hard work.

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