Creating a Unique DJ Persona.

The world of DJing is highly competitive with a very small percentage of DJs ever able to earn enough to make a living from their chosen profession. Creating a unique DJ persona can really help them standout out from the plethora of DJs in a saturated market. How can DJs create a strong memorable brand that makes a memorable impression. 

 

Advancements in technology in recent years have enabled easier access to sophisticated DJing equipment at a much lower cost. Entry to the DJ market is now much easier and this has resulted in millions of amateur DJs many of whom would like to get professional paying gigs. The highest earning DJs can make a substantial income so there is certainly a financial incentive, however, many amateur DJs simply prefer to play without payment and just enjoy the experience. In this crowded marketplace any budding DJ with high technical and musical ability will still have to create a unique persona to have a greater impact. 

Genre and Sound. 
There are a multitude of genre and sub genres in modern DJing circles, and a DJ is often identified with a particular genre depending on what they play. Nightclubs and festivals often focus on specific genres but shifting trends can constantly change this depending on what attracts the highest number of attendees. House and Techno can be very popular, but PSY trance can be very niche for example. Whilst hip-hop is a very popular genre for steaming it can be limiting in a live environment as it does not attract high audience numbers. Many professional DJs are capable of switching between different genres depending on the circumstances and what gig pays the most. To stand out from other DJs it’s worth developing signature tracks and having a unique mixing style with unexpected track combinations or sound effects for example. 

Visual Identity and Performance. 
With so many professional DJs it can be difficult to come up with a unique DJ name because so many combinations are already in use. It is preferable to settle on a name that also reflects the musical style and personality of the DJ and then create a professionally designed logo with matching brand imagery. Any development of a brand image needs to follow through to clothing and stage presence in a consistent manner. Good DJs will also work well with a live audience where they need to ‘read the room’ to build a connection with the crowd using eye contact, hand gestures or mic work to create event energy. In some cases, DJs may use other props and clothing accessories that reflect the visual image they are trying to create. 

Promotional Activity and Networking. 
With a unique DJ name and professionally designed logo and supporting photography that reflects the brand imagery being developed it is essential that these are used across all promotional activity. A consistent look across all social media channels and online content should also transfer to merchandise, venue decoration, album covers and promotional flyers. Most venues and music festivals will request images and profiles to support their own promotional activities so these materials should always be quickly available. If the DJ can secure a set at a music festival it is an opportunity to network with other DJs plus producers and other influential people. Networking is a vital element of building on a unique DJ persona. 

Audience Engagement. 
A unique branded DJ persona should be reflected on their social media platforms and are an ideal place to project this imagery and musical style. It is essential to update these on a regular basis (at least several times a week) as they also help tell an audience about the DJ’s journey. They can inform followers about music developments as well as providing a platform to showcase new material and announce gig dates. Building an online presence and engaging with an audience can also transfer to a live event crowd. 

For festival organisers planning their events using a software management platform like Festival Pro gives them all the functionality they need manage every aspect of their event logistics. The guys who are responsible for this software have been in the front line of event management for many years and the features are built from that experience and are performance artists themselves. The Festival Pro platform is easy to use and has comprehensive features with specific modules for managing artists, contractors, venues/stages, vendors, volunteers, sponsors, guestlists, ticketing, cashless payments and contactless ordering.

Image by StockSnap via Pixabay

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