What Makes a Good DJ?

If you are planning an important event and considering hiring a DJ, you’ll want to find someone who’s not just good but GREAT. A good DJ can be one of the most memorable parts of an event. Great songs and transitions play a huge role in making parties, wedding receptions, and corporate events a lot of fun.

What makes a good DJ is not just playing the right songs at the right time – a good DJ is competent and enjoyable and creates a profound and memorable experience for the audience.

We offer the best DJs for hire at Liv Entertainment for any event – Our DJs, such as DJ Jason and DJ Oren, know how to set the vibe and make your event unforgettable. Contact us today.

In this article we will talk about the qualities that make a good DJ and share tips on how to find a great DJ for your party, not just an okay one.

What Are the Qualities of a Good DJ?

When it comes to the world of DJing, the line between a good DJ and a great DJ can be subtle but significant. This distinction lies in several key factors differentiating merely competent performances from truly memorable ones. These factors include technical skills, music selection, stage presence and interaction, adaptability, emotional impact, knowing your audience intimately, and knowing how to make a crowd happy. Being a good DJ is more than just playing enjoyable songs.

Being a good DJ requires a blend of skills, knowledge, and a passion for music that sets them apart from the rest. Whether you’re a radio DJ, a techno DJ, or a club DJ, certain qualities and capabilities are essential to make a mark in the industry.

One of the key aspects that makes a good DJ is their ability to mix tracks seamlessly. A good DJ is proficient with DJ software and a DJ mixer, enabling them to create smooth transitions between songs, keeping the energy alive on the dance floor. This skill is critical in various settings, from an online radio show to a high-energy club scene.

Knowing what goes into what makes a great DJ will ensure you have hired someone professionally capable of handling your event. And when you’ve selected the perfect DJ for your event, everyone will have an amazing time. 

To summarize, there are many factors that make a DJ good or Amazing – here are our top 6 most important qualities you’ll find in good DJs:

1. They have the technical skills, personality, and adaptability to perform at the highest quality

2. Be up to date with the latest songs and trends

3. Have the best setup

4. Is adaptable and pleasant

5. Keeps in touch with trends

6. Always has a plan B

Is a DJ a Good Choice for Your Event?

If a DJ has all of the qualifications in this blog, then they are a good fit for any event. While a wedding DJ might differ somewhat from a party DJ, the core aspects have to be there.

Before hiring a DJ for your event, always check to see if they have experience in the specific event you’re looking for; check their social media, live videos, and other testimonials of their performance.

How Do DJ Companies Differ From Typical Wedding DJs?

The biggest difference is that some independent wedding DJs tend to use the same songs at every event. While this may work for some couples, it’s not the best idea if you want a more customizable playlist. Settling for less might not give you the memorable celebration you want.

But, most DJ companies think outside the box. They hire talented DJs who love music and know how to plan an unforgettable event. These DJs are skilled entertainers who can curate a playlist for all sorts of events, not just weddings. They bring their own unique touch and can adapt to any crowd.

Thanks to their versatility, they can match your musical taste and make your event feel special. By working with successful DJs with their own style, these companies ensure every celebration feels fresh and exciting.

How Do You Tell if a DJ Has the Technical Skills They Need?

A good DJ exudes positive energy through their passion for what they do and is proficient in the basics: they can mix tracks smoothly, understand beatmatching and cueing, and read the crowd to play appropriate tracks. However, a great DJ takes these skills to the next level. They master seamless transitions with creative flair, use advanced techniques like harmonic mixing, and anticipate crowd energy to adjust their set dynamically. This mastery creates a cohesive and engaging musical journey.

The best DJs build up their sets and drop them at the right moment. This talent ensures the crowd isn’t overwhelmed with a constant barrage of fast dance tracks or slow songs that lull them to sleep. The best way to know if a DJ has this skill is to read their reviews. High star ratings and positive feedback almost always guarantee a DJ puts together a perfect performance.

Do They Know How to Put On a Performance?

A great DJ recognizes the importance of the event, delivers an excellent performance, and interacts with the crowd through occasional gestures and eye contact, maintaining a positive energy throughout their set. To understand this, look for videos of the DJ’s performance on YouTube and other platforms and notice how they interact with the crowd!

A great DJ creates a memorable experience with high energy and charisma. They connect deeply with the audience, fostering a communal atmosphere, and use the microphone effectively to hype the crowd when necessary. This connection elevates the overall experience, making it unforgettable.

Is This Person Adaptable?

A successful DJ is prepared but also knows how to be spontaneous. When choosing the right DJ, you don’t want someone who doesn’t take your event seriously. A DJ who takes your event too lightly is just as bad as a DJ who takes themselves too seriously. 

A good DJ is prepared for the event in advance but also knows what the crowd enjoys and how to improvise. Often, an audience doesn’t feel the vibe. An inexperienced DJ might stay the course to get through the event. But a professional DJ will adjust to the crowd’s needs. A good DJ may have to throw away their entire set on the spot and start fresh to keep the audience dancing.

This adaptability is what often earns them the title of the best DJ in their area.

Can Your DJ Read the Crowd?

The ability to read the crowd is essential to every good DJ’s performance. When a DJ can’t read the crowd (quite a few can’t), they ruin the mood of the entire event. A DJ who studies the audience will ensure a good experience.

Hire a DJ who pays attention to what makes a crowd dance and what songs make them head to their seats and sit down. Preparation is more than just having a library of songs ready. It includes changing those songs whenever necessary to keep things running smoothly.

Special events like weddings, New Year’s Eve parties, corporate events, and private functions have a wide variety of attendees. A good DJ looks at their audience and knows what they will like. Knowing what will get the crowd dancing ensures a great DJ will have a successful event.

Timing and feeling the crowd are crucial. An experienced DJ knows when to play that classic track that everybody loves. They are also familiar with what new songs have fun and catchy beats. 

How to Tell if a DJ Knows the Latest Hits and Popular Songs?

Determining if a DJ has up-to-date knowledge of hits and popular songs involves a few steps. First, check their track selection for current chart-toppers and recent releases. You can review their social media and streaming profiles for frequently updated playlists and posts about new music. Read interviews and articles to see if they discuss recent songs and artists.

Examine their setlists from recent performances and note if they play at major festivals and events. Finally, consider audience feedback and professional reviews. These aspects collectively reveal a DJ’s current music knowledge, ensuring they deliver the freshest and most popular tracks.

A good DJ also has extensive musical knowledge and stays updated with the new music trends. They should be familiar with various genres, such as hip-hop, electronic dance music, and dance music, to cater to different audiences. Local DJs often showcase their versatility by incorporating both pre-recorded music and live mixing in their sets, demonstrating their ability to adapt to different environments.

The best DJs truly love what they do. A DJ without a love of music is like a chef who doesn’t enjoy cooking – you can tell from the results.

There’s something special about hearing a trending song or one of your favorites presented in a new way at the party. It just hits different. Music selection is another critical area where good and great DJs diverge. A good DJ plays popular and well-known tracks, maintains a consistent vibe, and has a solid library of music. But a great DJ goes beyond creating setlists, they read the crowd and adapt their music to match the moment.

What Songs Should a DJ Know?

A successful DJ has an eclectic range of tracks that keep the party going, so it’s not necessary to know the exact tracks they chose. Knowledge of classic hits and modern songs makes a good DJ stand out when the crowd is having a good time. An experienced DJ knows when to lay down that new popular song.

Moreover, a good DJ must have a well-rounded DJ mix that includes various genres and styles, from electronic music to the latest techno DJ tracks. They should also be able to produce great music sets that keep the audience engaged and wanting more. This involves knowing the right moment to introduce the next track and how to build a narrative through their DJ set.

Additionally, a good DJ handles requests with ease. Inexperienced DJs refuse to take requests because it challenges their flow or the set they have in mind. But a good DJ knows how to cue the next song, transition, and take requests. They can also incorporate those songs into their set and make it sound good.

How to Know if Your DJ Has the Best Equipment

It seems simple enough, but a laptop and a speaker are not what makes a good DJ. A great DJ needs more than just the basics. So what is great equipment? Great equipment extends past the essentials, like high-quality speakers and a laptop. It includes acoustic engineering, mixing software, and lighting. 

The best DJs don’t just have high-quality equipment, they also know how to use it. Basic skills like transitioning between songs is something even amateur DJs should know how to do. When looking for a DJ, pay attention to the type of equipment they use and the reviews they’ve gotten from previous clients.

What Is Standard Equipment for a DJ

Standard DJ equipment starts with an input device. Depending on the DJ, that includes anything from a laptop to two turntables. Some DJs still prefer CD decks. However, beware of unprofessional DJs who attempt to play songs from their phones.

Using tools like digital vinyl systems and advanced DJ software efficiently allows DJs to mix and play music creatively. They must be comfortable with digital DJing and able to integrate new technologies into their performances.

Speakers and cables are also essential. Pay attention to the speakers that your potential DJ offers. The size and output make a difference. Ensure your DJ has a variety of speakers available. If they only have a small speaker set and your venue is outdoors, they won’t be a good DJ for you.

Special Equipment for a DJ Set

A good light show makes a difference during a special event. An empty hall with two speakers resting on a table won’t be as memorable as a darkened venue with a colorful light scheme that pulsates to the beat. And everybody has a good time when a machine kicks out some fun fog for dancing.

You don’t need to know what kind of computer software your DJ is running, but you need to know if your DJ can mix one song into another. A seamless transition keeps the flow of the event fun. Make sure your DJ has a mixer or mixing software that allows them to flawlessly bring down one song while bringing up the next.

You should also be concerned if your DJ doesn’t have a pair of headphones wrapped around their neck. Transitions will fail if the DJ hasn’t properly cued them up in the first place. These may seem like standard protocols for any DJ, but the wrong assumption can ruin an entire night of fun.

A Good DJ Has Strong People Skills 

As explained earlier, reading the room separates the great DJs from the less-than-desirable ones. But a DJ who can read the room but isn’t approachable misses the opportunity for a wonderful event.

Every Good DJ Is Approachable

A good DJ has to have an approachable personality. They should also be capable of getting along with the crowd. Some hostile DJs refuse to be interrupted. These DJs believe they know better than you and that speaking to you will only ruin their set. Avoid these DJs because they will strain an event.

Great DJs are excellent at handling requests. They also establish a rapport with the audience. Make sure the DJ you hire has strong communication and microphone skills. Experienced DJs know when to get on the mic and involve the crowd.

A good DJ also pumps up the crowd, not just through their microphone skills but with a complimentary light show. When a DJ involves the audience in their performance, the event feels more inclusive and special to those who are a part of it.

Nobody wants to upset a bride or groom on the most important day of their life. A great DJ also adapts on the fly to the mood and energy of the crowd. They seamlessly integrate requests and changes in music direction and manage unexpected challenges creatively and calmly. This flexibility ensures the music always feels fresh and responsive to the audience’s needs.

A Good DJ Gets Along With the Venue and Staff

Note that a good DJ doesn’t have to keep just the audience happy. They have to maintain a positive relationship with the venue and its employees or hired contractors. 

DJs often perform at wedding receptions. Simple mistakes by an unapproachable DJ might ruin the entire event. When a DJ is unapproachable, they won’t know when unique moments occur. An inexperienced DJ will miss moments like the bouquet toss or cake-cutting ceremony because they have not communicated with the event staff or the hired photographer.

A good DJ is part of the experience from start to finish. They aren’t just there to make music. They are there to make the night unforgettable. Hiring a DJ with a positive and approachable attitude is essential for a memorable experience.

A Good DJ Stays Up With Trends

Keeping up with music trends and sites is essential for a successful DJ. They can’t keep the crowd engaged without knowledge. Knowing popular trends helps, but knowing when it is appropriate and inappropriate to play those trending songs is better. 

The biggest country hit at the moment might not be the right choice when someone requests a country track. But with a solid understanding of music, a good DJ would know the perfect moment to play it so that the celebration’s vibe isn’t ruined.

Keeping Up With Technology

A DJ with outdated technology might not be the best choice, because they are less adaptable to the unique needs of an event. This lack of flexibility leads to an expectation that all events should follow their rigid format that doesn’t serve the best interest of all attendees.

Also, a DJ who doesn’t keep up with technology advancements and trends might have outdated equipment. Outdated equipment tends to malfunction. You don’t want a beautiful moment ruined because a song stops playing or the lights go out. 

A good DJ also has a social media presence. Great DJs use digital marketing as a means of advertisement. A DJ with a weak social media presence might be someone with a less than ideal set-up. Determine if your DJ has an excellent system and view their site or social media.

It doesn’t hurt to know that your DJ keeps up with fashion trends. Unprofessional DJs don’t dress appropriately for the occasion. They may wear outdated or offensive attire. A crowd expects a DJ to look a specific way. A good DJ understands this and keeps up with trends to dress accordingly. 

A Good DJ Understands Risks and Maintains Safety

Good DJs understand liabilities and insurance. Most venues provide insurance coverage, but DJs are responsible for things that can go wrong. If someone trips on a loose cord that the DJ has left exposed on the dance floor, that may be the DJ’s responsibility. A good DJ knows what dangers there are and how to avoid them.

Additionally, a good DJ is aware of copyright infringement laws. Be careful of inexperienced and unprofessional DJs. They might be playing their songs illegally. Good DJs are aware of copyright laws and protect their clients from risks.

Back-Up Equipment and Equipment Insurance

Equipment fails, and sometimes no one is at fault. Faulty electrical wiring might blow a speaker or an entire set of equipment. A good DJ has backup equipment ready and available whenever unfortunate accidents occur. 

No one wants the night to end because of an unexpected event. Great DJs keep equipment insurance just for these situations. An inexperienced DJ might not be ready for these situations where faulty equipment ruins the night.

What Are Common Issues With Most Wedding DJs?

Most DJs fall into the trap of repeating the same songs at every event they perform at, which makes their performances dull and predictable. When they fail to adjust their song choices to fit the theme of a wedding, the wedding can feel generic. For a truly memorable celebration, DJs should be flexible and offer a diverse selection of music. They’re also expected to know how to read a crowd to keep their attention sharp all through the event.

Looking for a Great DJ for Your Event?

Knowing what makes a great DJ means knowing you’ve selected the right person that will make your event memorable. As you search for the perfect DJ for your event, keep these qualities in mind before choosing. 

The emotional impact of a DJ’s performance separates the good from the great. A good DJ provides a fun and enjoyable experience, keeping the crowd dancing and entertained. However, a great DJ creates an unforgettable and emotional journey through music. They leave a lasting impression that resonates with the audience long after the event, turning a night out into a profound musical experience.

Make sure your DJ has a good equipment set-up. They must have appropriate speakers and a powerful light show. A good DJ is positive and approachable with a passion for music. They have a strong social media presence and a professional attitude. A good DJ comes to your event prepared but open with a sense of spontaneity. 

Our professional and affordable DJs at LIV Entertainment have all these skills and more! Contact us today so we can help you find the best DJ for your event.