Scratching will set you apart from the average DJ who only knows how to mix. A scratch DJ, also known as a "turntablist," uses the turntable as a percussion instrument by moving the record to create rhythmic patterns. Start by finding a sound to scratch and just move the record back and forth to see what kind of noises you can make. (This is called the "Baby Scratch.") Add the crossfader in by cutting the sound on and off to create different rhythms. (This is the "Transformer.") Move the record and fade the sound in and out using the up and down fader. (This is "The Fade.") There are many other fader and record movement combinations that create complex rhythms. Once you practice these beginner scratches you are ready to learn more advanced scratches such as the Stab, Echo, Chirp, Flare and Crab scratches.
Beat juggling is just what it sounds like: juggling beats. It is performed by using two records and manipulating the arrangement of the elements (drum sounds, instruments, words, etc.) from both to create a new rhythmical composition. The first technique to learn is back spinning. This is when you repeat the same section of music by rewinding one record while the other one is playing and then starting the section of music over each time it's rewound. You can create different patterns by repeating different sections of the record.
Choosing your DJ name and promoting yourself are necessary if you want to deejay outside your bedroom. Pick an original name that is easy to remember and says something about your style or personality. Next, create a mix CD showcasing your skills, make tons of copies with your contact info and hand them out for free to clubgoers, promoters and other DJs to get your name out there and get bookings. A website is helpful to promote yourself globally. Make business cards, mingle at clubs and keep in touch with your contacts. Finally, lose the ego, and be cool to people; nobody wants to book someone they don't like.
So you got a gig? Now, be ready for anything. You are usually on different equipment unless you bring your own. The acoustics vary; it's usually loud and hard to hear; the needles skip; the crowd is hard to please and you get requests for Lynyrd Skynyrd when you are playing techno (it happens!). Some tips to get you through it: Get a sound check and make sure everything is set up right before you go on. Be nice to the sound person because she/he can make you sound awesome or terrible. Bring your own needles and headphones and more records than you think you need. Always watch the crowd and try to keep them on the dance floor. If they are diggin' what you are playing, don't cut it short, but if you clear the floor, play something you know they can't resist to bring them back. After you have a few gigs under your belt you'll learn to follow your instincts and read the crowd. Never let the crowd see you freak out. If you mess up, just play it off and most won't even notice you missed a beat. Again, lose the ego and remember you wouldn't be there if it weren't for the promoter who booked you and the people dancin' to your set. But remember they don't own you; you are the professional so if one person asks for house while the other 500 people love the hip-hop you're playing, stick with the hip-hop.
Buy DJ Shortee's DJ 101: How to Become a Well-Rounded DJ on DVD and VHS from Eyekiss Films.
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photos: courtesy www.djshortee.com and Chad Doering.
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