| Being a DJ -
Paying Your Dues
No specific educational requirements exist to become a disc jockey,
but most radio disc jockeys have experience at college radio
stations or in small markets; others intern while in school to learn
the equipment used in the industry and to get a taste of the style
of successful radio personalities. Many create tapes of their shows
and save clippings to use as introductions to professional radio
stations. A radio jockey must be familiar with current or specialty
(subgenre) musical trends and how specific songs fit together. He
must be able to fill empty space with information and have a clear,
clean speaking voice and a certain amount of technical skill. A club
or nightclub disc jockey must know how to mix beats so music
progresses smoothly, how to design a night of music around a
specific theme or requested type of music, and how to use lighting
and special effects to best advantage. As first introductions, many
DJs must work for free at established clubs on off nights. Close
contact with record promoters is important in getting unreleased
demos or other songs which can distinguish you from other DJs. A DJ
trades on his reputation, so staying current with musical trends and
responding to listener feedback is critical to success.
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