Life Lessons I Learned from Deejaying

As I reflect on almost three decades behind the DJ booth, it's clear that spinning records isn't just about playing music; it's about orchestrating experiences and connecting deeply with people. The journey has been as much about personal growth as it has been about entertainment.

Here are four crucial lessons I've learned from deejaying since 1997, each one offering valuable insights not just for aspiring DJs, but for anyone navigating the complex rhythms of life.

1. Read the Room

The first lesson from deejaying that translates seamlessly into everyday life is the ability to read the room. Whether it's a dance floor or a business meeting, understanding the vibe and emotional state of your audience is paramount. This skill involves noticing the energy levels, moods, and reactions of those around you and adapting accordingly. It's about empathy and responsiveness, qualities that are equally important in personal relationships and professional interactions. By tuning into the needs and feelings of others, whether playing a nostalgic track or addressing a client's concerns, you create a more meaningful and connected experience.

2. Curate Your Unique Soundtrack

In deejaying, success often comes from distinguishing yourself from others. This means curating a set that reflects your unique style and resonates with your core identity. The same principle applies to life: following your instincts and embracing what truly connects with you will lead to a more authentic and fulfilling existence. Whether you're crafting a career path, choosing hobbies, or simply deciding how to spend your weekend, leaning into your passions and what feels right for you is key. Your personal "soundtrack" should be a reflection of who you are, not a playlist of someone else's hits.

3. Pick a Lane

While experimentation is a part of growth, both in music and in life, there comes a time when focusing your efforts becomes necessary. In deejaying, this might mean specializing in a genre like techno or hip-hop rather than continuously hopping between styles. In life, it translates to recognizing what truly matters to you—be it a career goal, a relationship, or a personal aspiration—and going all in. This doesn't mean you must stick to one path forever, but it does mean investing your energy and talents where they are most aligned with your values and goals. By doing so, you enhance your impact and satisfaction.

4. Never Arrive

Perhaps the most profound lesson from three decades of deejaying is the realization that you never truly "arrive." There's always a new skill to master, a boundary to push, or an unconventional track to explore—like this Dark Jazz ?? Doom Jazz subgenre/playlist that I found recently and had no idea existed — even after being a music buyer for almost ten years. Embracing a mindset of lifelong learning keeps you dynamic and innovative. It prevents complacency and keeps you moving forward, whether you're behind the turntable or navigating life's challenges. Staying curious and open to new experiences ensures that your journey is always evolving and never stagnant.

Conclusion

Deejaying since 1997 has taught me more than just how to mix tracks. It has offered profound insights into how to live a life rich with deep connections, authenticity, focus, and perpetual growth. These lessons, learned over countless nights in clubs like Soma or Beta Nightclub and at events like Holy Moly in Goa, India, are universal tunes that can help anyone improve their life's playlist. As we each spin our own lives' tracks, remember, the music never really stops; we just choose what plays next.