Back in 2000, I had been DJing for 7 or 8 years when an old school DJ took me under his wing. He taught me the philosophical difference between a DJ and a Me-J. ...a true DJ can play any time, any place, any style of music and make people dance... they spend more time watching the crowd than they do tweaking knobs... you're there for the crowd... I get that vibe from you! Keep doing what you're doing! "...there's not a problem I can't fix, because I can do it in the mix..."
@@HALFAMAZINGTV "Byron" played at a small gay club in Spokane, Washington. He probably had 5,000 records in his booth... his apartment had a lazy boy chair and 3 crates high of records wall to wall, filling the rest of it. He said, "when I find the right person with the same beliefs to take over this club, I'm going to give them everything you see here... then, the only place you'll ever find me is out on the dance floor... because that's where I've wanted to be for the last 30 years." Wish I knew how to get ahold of him...
+1 on that... although the crowd was perfect when descriving the actual audience, and I do fully agree with you on that "sophisticated" kind (and yep, older I am afraid, since I do belong to such bunch), the mixing moment should be clear so everyone can see what you are doing. Great video about a subject that some DJs seems to ignore...
@@HALFAMAZINGTV no sir...thank you for amazing content that no one else dares to put out there. It's more than just mixing. You clearly show us this. So thank YOU!
This just blown my mind. I been djin for a year. I looked into the basics and I’ve been currently doing this the past few months just by playing with it. I never knew it was called phrase mixing. Everything you’re explaining makes everything so much better. Thank you 🙏🏻
Back when I started DJing there were no cue points, no loops, no visual waveforms, just 2 plates of vinyl and a mixer and dj’s still managed to take the crowd on a journey. Sometimes less is more with DJing
I definitely hear you. I started in 1993 with turntables. unfortunately, it's tough to get back there as every piece of equipment is digital today. I go to the stores and i only find controllers, rarely any cdjs. Even scratch djs use samples and computers. it's tough when trying to go back to less because you get used to all the visuals.
HALFAMAZINGTV I hear you man, it’s pretty amazing what you can do these days with loops and cue points. I think I just get jealous sometimes because I’ve just got my trusty Denon CDJ’s and can’t afford to upgrade! Thanks for the video though, very informative 👍😀
This was good! I learned how to spin in 1987 when House was new. Coming from Detroit, we had Italo Disco going out, with House and Techno coming in. We had to make our own phrases. We had doubles of records. We chopped them up, overlayed acappella's, scratched in phrases etc. It was very intuitive. Now at 54, I am trying to figure out how to pick it up again (DVS, Controller, CDJ's, Rotary?), but I still think the fundamental skills of keeping it musical, knowing your tunes, and knowing your crowd will carry you through any era and generation.
If i may speak freely, go with a set of controllers, but that can be used as a standalone as well. this way, you get the best of both worlds, while still keeping the old school methods.
That's so true brother about producers vs djs, having worked with a ton of producers they really are nerdy and more analytical, where as the dj is more intune with the present the feel and the vision of how it affects us all
Underground music scene is definitely more about energy control. Track selection. Mixing precisely. Playing tracks nobody has heard of. Telling a story. Blending 2 , 3 , 4 track at the same time together. NO CHEESY drops. No Heavy FX nonsense.
@Dbulkss True story! I've been messing around with open format/top40 cause it gets more opportunity to play out, but I am making my return to house. All the things you mentioned are so much more appreciated from an electronic crowd.
@@HALFAMAZINGTV mannn them cheap DROP DROP DROP tells me the dj dont got skills IMO. Terrible. That being said you make a good point about short attention span crowds have that make then buy into the DROP KINGS DJ style.
@@HALFAMAZINGTV dude it would be cool to see how to set up a high energy groove house/tech house style mix I think you would give some amazing ideas and pointers!
@uglyaldo3268 Will do. Jot down some areas you would like to see and/or learn and I'll do it. I have a few videos on que, but will definitely make one.
Appreciate you taking the time, charlie! im also trying to come back with more videos. Let me know what you think is missing nowadays from the scene that you believe i should touch on. i need some ideas.
I have been meaning to ask.. why did you jump to that phrase with the 4 beat loop? Did it add more elements to the mix? What if you did not jump to that phrase and let it play naturally.Did that phrase have more going on? Thank you again.
Hey, intense! So, great question as it also got me thinking. #1- I am purely a fan of layers and keeping the momentum/drive, especially when it comes to uptempo tracks. Also, if people know the tracks, it helps drive the energy of anticipation of the next song. Sure i could have allowed the tracks to play out as normal intro/outro, but the layering is just another tool in your box to use to minimize what i call dead space. That's the space during the intro/outro transition where nothing is happening. This works for many occasions, especially deeper/groovier sounds, but it's more ideal to keep the groove going when it comes to funky/uptempo tracks. Essentially, it's an art to be able to pair/layer busy tracks and have them flow well. Most djs layer easy techno tracks that are not busy, so it makes it easier to double or triple up. Layering vocals and instruments is where the art/magic happens. Of course, it's just a tool which is why i use a variety of transitions to spike the energy of the crowd/dancers, NOT other djs. (not directed at you) Hope this makes sense. You can always email me at info@boothridertv.com if you have any more questions or just want to share ideas..
Thank you for explaining this for the newer Djs that are all about tricks (which are good at the right time) but, we who come from Vinyl and didn’t have the luxury of loops n things. But, we had to be thinking 2,3,5 songs ahead. Play to the people, the bar, and the entire venue. If that makes sense. House Music All Night Long!!!!! I want a rotary mixer, are they made to order or is there a particular……..wait, DJM-30000 is a start thanx.
Over the last few weeks, I found your videos and I've been checking you out. Definitely APPRECIATE your honesty. Specifically, you're not a boughie ass DJ talking about how good he is, but you've shown how DIFFICULT this game can be and how jaded it can become. Thanks and just keep doing your thing. I've been djing since 1982 - but House became my thing in 1997 and its been my mistress ever since. I have worked hard to be the best that I can and I KNOW that I'm not the best. However - I learned the game as a DJ back in the day when DJ's EDUCATED the crowd...we loved the fact that we wanted to share new music, new types of blends and genres and how the sounds worked together. I miss that. Anyway, I digress. You - I'm subscribed and I'm listening. Keep on it!
Blaze! I truly appreciate the time and effort you put into making your comment. I enjoyed the read and you are truly deserving of whatever positive vibes comes your way. Respect!
Great mixes. As a beginner DJ I was just disappointed that whenever you played around with the mixer, you hid it with the videos. Otherwise, it would have been a great tutorial
This was really good. I am just learning about playing house in general. My one part where I am still not too sure about is, how do I know how many bars until one phrase ends so I can line up my second track to carry the momentum. I been saving cues on my tracks like crazy, hopefully that helps me.
appreciate the the feedback Brandon. Let me know whenever and wherever I can help out. Regarding your question, it really comes down to what you are doing now (cheat codes) then eventually you will start to notice patterns and be able to develop your own sense of placements. It doesn't come overnight, some faster than others. The key is to use the cues, but also play freely to start to develop your own sense in the dark. It's like moving to a new city. At first you need GPS, but eventually you begin to get around without it. However, you need to frequent those routes, otherwise you will not be able to remember as easily. Same for djing. The issue is that we all want to get their faster. I am having the same issue with learning new languages. I have to remind myself to enjoy the process, but also practice strategically so that i am not wasting time. Let me know your thoughts!
another point is to keep practicing transition points. meaning, go over each song's intro and outro in order to determine where the areas are less busy. From there, start using 1 dummy song and mix other songs into that same song. you will eventually begin to notice what works for that individual song, but most importantly, what works for that particularly outro style. Some intro/outro are busier than others, some longer/shorter, making it that you may have to delay the uncoming song via looping, or masking it through deliberate EQing. Nonetheless, it's all about deliberate practicing. Try not to focus on playing full lengths, just key in on transitioning. You can then practice full length playing at other times.
@@HALFAMAZINGTV It's funny you mention cheat codes. I never really tried DJing. I messed around with virtual DJ back in the day, I suppose everyone did at one point. When i realized i fell in love with deep and tech house, i started collecting so many tracks, naturally, i want to try to mix these now. While i waited for my DDJ400 to arrive, i watched so many videos on mixing (I must have watched this video 10 times by now lol). When i finally got the DDJ, i logged 9 hours in my first session. I found that when I thought about it less, my transitions came across a lot more smoothly. I also do not want to develop bad habits so this is why I am trying to understand the science behind it.
@@HALFAMAZINGTV Yea i've def noticed that as well. Some tracks have nice long intros and outros which give me room to breathe, other tracks are shorter and I have to use loops to give myself the room. Also like you said, I've noticed some tracks might have the right key and bpm, but it still doesn't mix well, maybe the mids are clashing, or the highs are clashing, and I gotta give some room for the new track, then im fumbling with all the knobs as i make my transition, lol. It's a lot of fun though. Its only been 2 days since I got my controller, I will continue practicing and watching your videos and I will figure it out. I can tell from this video how much you love it, i am similar.
I love the EQ mixing, but how do you cue in and hear your next track if all the EQs are turned down? Oh and by the way, that's I call mixing. As in overlay 1 track on top of the other.
very good tutorial on mixing and blending songs in this way....... ALSO, is that a pioneer djm 3000??? I still have mine from 2002. awesome mixer and video :-)
sorr sandra for the late reply. In a way, yes. it's to prevent the extra noise and sometimes I may have to cut the loop so it doesn't go into other sounds. with proper eq and speed, you can mask it without anyone really noticing.
HALFAMAZINGTV thank you again for your response. I do notice sometimes that the 1st note of the bar is too noisy ( not just beats) and I have to loop a cleaner portion of phrase. This was an awesome lesson. Thank you again
I'm a Dj/Producer, techie person and this video gave me a better perspective of what should I do at the moment of produce in the DAW and when I'm in front of the crowd. Nowdays,I think you become a good Dj when you produce, and VICEVERSA!!!, they're complementary each other and phrase mixing plays a vital role in the studio and the dancefloor. It's all about curate the music and the journey... Cheers
HALFAMAZINGTV The big issue here is as you stated on other video. Difficult to get the gigs when venues prefer the not necessarily best, but more expensive guys.
@@djcarlosalicea1638 the other part is that we are having to figh the complacent djs who love to tout "it is what it is" mentality. They watch the house burn and don't say anything in order to fit in. We must breakaway from those type of djs.
HALFAMAZINGTV TRUE I am listening again while writing, and the momentum part is crucial and hard to work in a live mixing situation. It's true that as a dj, you should have the power to control the vibe, but it's difficult when you get caught between songs that you really like. That's where loops are really handy.
Thank you for this! Just stumbled across your channel; I love your enthusiasm! I'd like to see more technical detail - don't know if there's a demand for that generally? But still, I learned a lot from this video - subbed, and I shall catch up on what I've missed! All the best!
Why cant there be both? Well balanced. I phrase and use clean old achool mixing. But i also drop mix and use acapella pieces, & loops, and some FX, filters etc. But nothing to crazy. I try to make it all flow and sound clean together. Mixing oldschool styles in with new. And i can i started mixing house, breaks, and DnB back in 2000 on vinyl. And recently switched to digital and controller mixing. I think it was made to happen.
I don't believe I necessarily argued for any particular style in being the only/best. It all depends on the style of music. The quick drops/fx work especially well for faster tempo. Quick drops/fx in deeper/slower grooves can disrupt the vibe, depending on where you are and time of night. Again, you are not incorrect in your assessment.
@@HALFAMAZINGTV if you wouldn't mind checking out me and my gf, open format freestyle mixing some house b2b here ( th-cam.com/video/uDcf-GpNYgY/w-d-xo.html ) that would be awesome thanks. This is us last friday just messing around at home.
This is good. I was confused about why you allowed phrase to go one extra beat before releasing loop. Since you set loop one bar after phrase, then in order for it to match up, you have to release it one bar after phrase begins.
You showing stock footage of people having fun doesn't help. I was trying to watch and figure out your transition and every time you faded into club footage.
read the comments below. it has already been discussed. as a dj, you should pay more attention. this way you don't waste your time on issues already addressed. my suggestion!
@@HALFAMAZINGTV as a DJ I should spend more time reading comments on TH-cam? I appreciate your suggestion, I will read more comments on TH-cam. That way I'll be ready to play the big venues. Thank you.
Thanks. i loop it just right before the bass goes out and where its not so busy with vocals/fx. I do this to keep the momentum. If the bass goes, the mix loses momentum. its all about searching for the right spot ahead of time (if you have time during the mix).
@@HALFAMAZINGTV Thanks alot Johnny! I'll try this. I watched your previous videos also but they're not clear of how you mix them but this one is clear and if you can please remove background girls dancing stuff when you start mixing so we can see you mixing and the mixer properly. I started understanding your style of mixing. Much love from Sri Lanka.
I was getting into this video and loving what you were saying but then when you started to mix and you couldn’t actually see anything really that you were doing because of the videos playing over the top! Great content but don’t think you need the glamour shots over because it distracts from what you’re trying to get across and no one can see.
Great question! It depends on multiple factors. Believe it or not, most electronic djs play intro to outro. For them, they phrase the entire set. The reason why is because they often play one sound. For me, i usually phrase the early part of the set as the is music deeper. once i get into bigger/ harder and faster tempo, i use breakdown mixing where I mix at the breakdown to create my own drops. I also like to layer, so i will have two tracks running, where the outgoing track never sees the end.
Watch my "how to quick mix" and "how to layer progressive tech house tutorials". you will see that the mixing styles depend heavily on the energy and impact you are trying to achieve. i prefer a mix of all transitions during a set.
very well put. If you play the video of you mixing and add a seperate audio overlay to explain what you are doing it would be great. Also, please remove the dancing videos, its better to focus on your mixing. overall, great philosophy and I will train and sub to you! Thanks
I disagree when you say they expect more from a dj. Being in the scene for many many years in LA, SF and New York I can tell you that very seldom do people say "daaaanm" did you hear how smooth that dj mixed. It's all about the tracks and dropping them at the right time. Most people nowadays go to clubs to take pictures, drink and hook up not so much for the mixing style of the dj.
I totally get you Carlos and you are absolutely correct. However, this channel caters mostly to newer djs, so the idea is to cultivate the mindset of an artist, then allow them to seek their own truth based on their particular scenes. Furthermore, many of the subscribers are from Europe, so the scene is vastly different then to the US as it is today.
It's not about being a "trickster", it about reading the crowd and adapting. A big difference between "big picture" and being "one dimensional". Reading your room and, pleasing the crowd, not your ego, or your "perfections", and or staff....?!? Keep your mind on the dance floor, not the bartenders, dancers or staff......?!? More so the people who spent their hard earned $$$ to have a good time, and be entertained son.....?!?
I am not always in the right. More importantly, is that you put all that effort into attaching a funny emoji to a criticism, which highlights your level of maturity.
The artistry exists in both spaces. For sure there is art in being a good selecter and understnading what to play and when - that artistry is the fundamental difference beween a true DJ who can take the crowd on a journey and a human jukebox.
read the other comments and watch my more recent videos. the issue has already been discussed. you look a little silly for not paying attention. Be more observant.
@@HALFAMAZINGTV I don't need to be observant, I don't need to be anything. I'm a viewer enjoying your videos and felt it import to respectfully provide feedback on your videos. If the problems been fixed, that's all that needs to be said
@@danielromeu3713 you are an entitled piece of shit.. when you enter a free classroom, you address the instructor appropriately. Part of the learning process is reading comments to ensure you choose your words carefully. saying to remove "silly pictures" is part of my art. If you can't address it appropriately, there are more channels for you to watch. Don't be shocked when people bite back at your rude approach..
@@HALFAMAZINGTV you really are something eh? If you think calling someone giving you advice an entitled piece of shit is appropriate then I'm surprised you've made it as fas as you have un this channel. I called them silly graphics because I found it frustrating that while trying to learn off the videos from which You are profiting I was distracted by those clips blocking the view of your mixer. I gave a recommendation and you've been incredibly disrespectful and innapropjate. Take a top buddy and grow up. I can't belive you let some manipulate you into playing wtf along
I could give a shit what you think, mate. watch your tone when you address me. perhaps then your entitled ass would realize that this has been addressed multiple times in the comment section and that I have since addressed it. Would you like a beverage with that?
@@HALFAMAZINGTV hahaha chill thats the first video i seen from you and didn't even go through comments. and now you made it your last video i will see. fuckin idiot. good luck with that attitude
Back in 2000, I had been DJing for 7 or 8 years when an old school DJ took me under his wing. He taught me the philosophical difference between a DJ and a Me-J. ...a true DJ can play any time, any place, any style of music and make people dance... they spend more time watching the crowd than they do tweaking knobs... you're there for the crowd... I get that vibe from you! Keep doing what you're doing! "...there's not a problem I can't fix, because I can do it in the mix..."
love your story and your energy. feel free to share your stories with me anytime!
@@HALFAMAZINGTV "Byron" played at a small gay club in Spokane, Washington. He probably had 5,000 records in his booth... his apartment had a lazy boy chair and 3 crates high of records wall to wall, filling the rest of it. He said, "when I find the right person with the same beliefs to take over this club, I'm going to give them everything you see here... then, the only place you'll ever find me is out on the dance floor... because that's where I've wanted to be for the last 30 years." Wish I knew how to get ahold of him...
Don't put the dancing people overlay if you're doing an informative video. I want to watch the tecnical part of the mix not the crowd...
thanks for the feedback. note taken.
Yes. This. So informative but the dancing ppl make it hard to see
+1 on that... although the crowd was perfect when descriving the actual audience, and I do fully agree with you on that "sophisticated" kind (and yep, older I am afraid, since I do belong to such bunch), the mixing moment should be clear so everyone can see what you are doing. Great video about a subject that some DJs seems to ignore...
@@HALFAMAZINGTV no sir...thank you for amazing content that no one else dares to put out there. It's more than just mixing. You clearly show us this. So thank YOU!
@@guillermopelaez5859 Appreciate the feedback and contribution to the discussion, Guillermo. and
Great video man, learned a lot from this
This just blown my mind. I been djin for a year. I looked into the basics and I’ve been currently doing this the past few months just by playing with it. I never knew it was called phrase mixing. Everything you’re explaining makes everything so much better. Thank you 🙏🏻
I really appreciate you taking the time to tell the story of your journey. Definitely look forward to hearing some of your mixes!
Bro the people dancing over the eqs..come on man lol
that gate keep lol
Back when I started DJing there were no cue points, no loops, no visual waveforms, just 2 plates of vinyl and a mixer and dj’s still managed to take the crowd on a journey. Sometimes less is more with DJing
I definitely hear you. I started in 1993 with turntables. unfortunately, it's tough to get back there as every piece of equipment is digital today. I go to the stores and i only find controllers, rarely any cdjs. Even scratch djs use samples and computers. it's tough when trying to go back to less because you get used to all the visuals.
HALFAMAZINGTV I hear you man, it’s pretty amazing what you can do these days with loops and cue points. I think I just get jealous sometimes because I’ve just got my trusty Denon CDJ’s and can’t afford to upgrade! Thanks for the video though, very informative 👍😀
Great stuff dude but please chill with the party clips, I want to see what you're doing.:)
appreciate the advice, Stefan. took care of it in the following videos. Respect!
@@HALFAMAZINGTV Awesome! Much respect and thank you for sharing your knowledge.
Facts! House is a journey, not a quickie.
This was good! I learned how to spin in 1987 when House was new. Coming from Detroit, we had Italo Disco going out, with House and Techno coming in. We had to make our own phrases. We had doubles of records. We chopped them up, overlayed acappella's, scratched in phrases etc. It was very intuitive. Now at 54, I am trying to figure out how to pick it up again (DVS, Controller, CDJ's, Rotary?), but I still think the fundamental skills of keeping it musical, knowing your tunes, and knowing your crowd will carry you through any era and generation.
Alan! Respect to you my brother 🙏. Appreciate you dropping by and sharing your legendary commentary 🙌.
If i may speak freely, go with a set of controllers, but that can be used as a standalone as well. this way, you get the best of both worlds, while still keeping the old school methods.
@@HALFAMAZINGTV Thanks. Much appreciated and Happy New Year :)
That's so true brother about producers vs djs, having worked with a ton of producers they really are nerdy and more analytical, where as the dj is more intune with the present the feel and the vision of how it affects us all
Really like the way you explained how the vibes work and the 2 clips you introduce. That tells a lot.
This is how i see it also
Underground music scene is definitely more about energy control. Track selection. Mixing precisely. Playing tracks nobody has heard of. Telling a story. Blending 2 , 3 , 4 track at the same time together. NO CHEESY drops. No Heavy FX nonsense.
@Dbulkss True story! I've been messing around with open format/top40 cause it gets more opportunity to play out, but I am making my return to house. All the things you mentioned are so much more appreciated from an electronic crowd.
@Dbulkss Tell me you are not a fan of james Hype style without telling me you are not a fan 🤣
@@HALFAMAZINGTV Derrick May and DVS1 the master at this. Derrick my fav DJ.
@@HALFAMAZINGTV mannn them cheap DROP DROP DROP tells me the dj dont got skills IMO. Terrible. That being said you make a good point about short attention span crowds have that make then buy into the DROP KINGS DJ style.
Man you’re the legend himself. Good man !
God was not expecting to see Billy corgan on a dj vid but I love both so crazy I love it man keep it up!
@@uglyaldo3268 Appreciate it! Good vibes to you and yours!
@@HALFAMAZINGTV dude it would be cool to see how to set up a high energy groove house/tech house style mix I think you would give some amazing ideas and pointers!
@uglyaldo3268 Will do. Jot down some areas you would like to see and/or learn and I'll do it. I have a few videos on que, but will definitely make one.
Can you do a video on Electro and Breaks?
to be completely honest, i don't know anything about breaks, but give an idea for an elecro tutorial and consider it done.
@@HALFAMAZINGTV A video on how to mix electro
@@shutdown8947 cool, no problem
@@HALFAMAZINGTV Thanks I appreciate it man
One of the few djs that really teaches from heart
Nareg! shukraan liltifk & tusahibuk alsalama...
you a legend, thanks for the insight
I always learn a lot from your vids. When I’m not feeling inspired you always put me back on track. Keep it coming.
appreciate it the possibilities to help out a fellow dj!
Extremely Helpful Video!
Appreciate you taking the time, charlie! im also trying to come back with more videos. Let me know what you think is missing nowadays from the scene that you believe i should touch on. i need some ideas.
awesome tutorial. hope u dont mind if i reshare this :)
Appreciate it brother! Do your thing.
I have been meaning to ask.. why did you jump to that phrase with the 4 beat loop? Did it add more elements to the mix? What if you did not jump to that phrase and let it play naturally.Did that phrase have more going on? Thank you again.
Hey, intense! So, great question as it also got me thinking. #1- I am purely a fan of layers and keeping the momentum/drive, especially when it comes to uptempo tracks. Also, if people know the tracks, it helps drive the energy of anticipation of the next song. Sure i could have allowed the tracks to play out as normal intro/outro, but the layering is just another tool in your box to use to minimize what i call dead space. That's the space during the intro/outro transition where nothing is happening. This works for many occasions, especially deeper/groovier sounds, but it's more ideal to keep the groove going when it comes to funky/uptempo tracks. Essentially, it's an art to be able to pair/layer busy tracks and have them flow well. Most djs layer easy techno tracks that are not busy, so it makes it easier to double or triple up. Layering vocals and instruments is where the art/magic happens. Of course, it's just a tool which is why i use a variety of transitions to spike the energy of the crowd/dancers, NOT other djs. (not directed at you) Hope this makes sense. You can always email me at info@boothridertv.com if you have any more questions or just want to share ideas..
Hello, I am lerning djing, thanks a lot, it is possibile to watch video without croud?
Hi, yes, i have removed the crowds in my other videos after this one. You will be able to see the same movements on the mixer.
Halfamazing inspires! Thx man! Very useful!
honestly that was a higher level of tutorial in my opinion. i appreciate it man. keep on
appreciate the time you took to express your thoughts. thank you for the kind words 🙏
thanks !
No problem Karo!
Thank you for explaining this for the newer Djs that are all about tricks (which are good at the right time) but, we who come from Vinyl and didn’t have the luxury of loops n things. But, we had to be thinking 2,3,5 songs ahead. Play to the people, the bar, and the entire venue. If that makes sense. House Music All Night Long!!!!! I want a rotary mixer, are they made to order or is there a particular……..wait, DJM-30000 is a start thanx.
mate ive been doing this mixin without even knowing what im doing , I just feel its right . cant teach someone how to mix its in your groove within
If you cant explain it simply, then you don't understand it well enough-
Albert Einstein.
@@GV_777YT I love that haha exactly what i thought after skipping through parts than scrolling to see if anyone was on the same page.
Great tutorial! Thanks, legend
I must try it! Great explain
Over the last few weeks, I found your videos and I've been checking you out. Definitely APPRECIATE your honesty. Specifically, you're not a boughie ass DJ talking about how good he is, but you've shown how DIFFICULT this game can be and how jaded it can become. Thanks and just keep doing your thing. I've been djing since 1982 - but House became my thing in 1997 and its been my mistress ever since. I have worked hard to be the best that I can and I KNOW that I'm not the best. However - I learned the game as a DJ back in the day when DJ's EDUCATED the crowd...we loved the fact that we wanted to share new music, new types of blends and genres and how the sounds worked together. I miss that. Anyway, I digress. You - I'm subscribed and I'm listening. Keep on it!
Blaze! I truly appreciate the time and effort you put into making your comment. I enjoyed the read and you are truly deserving of whatever positive vibes comes your way. Respect!
Loved this man, thank you
appreciate the love afrodelis!
best dj tips and tricks ever and best style. thank you keep doing video like that
appreciate the love and comments! Will do.
Great mixes. As a beginner DJ I was just disappointed that whenever you played around with the mixer, you hid it with the videos. Otherwise, it would have been a great tutorial
Appreciate it Itzik.. I've been told that often, so i removed the videos in my more recent tutorials. Thanks for the feedback!
This guy is OG as Hell!!
Appreciate the the kind words Brandon! 🙏
I rock with my brother , I really got a lot from your video right to the point !!!!
@CarlWiggins-w8i Carl! I appreciate you reaching out.. Hope all is well.
Thank you so much. I just keep my interest in mixing. That was the best tutorial iv seen, just wish the dancing part wasn't there.
Appreciate the opportunity to help. i have done a better job with removing the dancing in my newer videos. Too many complaints 😁
This was really good. I am just learning about playing house in general. My one part where I am still not too sure about is, how do I know how many bars until one phrase ends so I can line up my second track to carry the momentum. I been saving cues on my tracks like crazy, hopefully that helps me.
appreciate the the feedback Brandon. Let me know whenever and wherever I can help out. Regarding your question, it really comes down to what you are doing now (cheat codes) then eventually you will start to notice patterns and be able to develop your own sense of placements. It doesn't come overnight, some faster than others. The key is to use the cues, but also play freely to start to develop your own sense in the dark. It's like moving to a new city. At first you need GPS, but eventually you begin to get around without it. However, you need to frequent those routes, otherwise you will not be able to remember as easily. Same for djing. The issue is that we all want to get their faster. I am having the same issue with learning new languages. I have to remind myself to enjoy the process, but also practice strategically so that i am not wasting time. Let me know your thoughts!
another point is to keep practicing transition points. meaning, go over each song's intro and outro in order to determine where the areas are less busy. From there, start using 1 dummy song and mix other songs into that same song. you will eventually begin to notice what works for that individual song, but most importantly, what works for that particularly outro style. Some intro/outro are busier than others, some longer/shorter, making it that you may have to delay the uncoming song via looping, or masking it through deliberate EQing. Nonetheless, it's all about deliberate practicing. Try not to focus on playing full lengths, just key in on transitioning. You can then practice full length playing at other times.
@@HALFAMAZINGTV It's funny you mention cheat codes. I never really tried DJing. I messed around with virtual DJ back in the day, I suppose everyone did at one point. When i realized i fell in love with deep and tech house, i started collecting so many tracks, naturally, i want to try to mix these now. While i waited for my DDJ400 to arrive, i watched so many videos on mixing (I must have watched this video 10 times by now lol). When i finally got the DDJ, i logged 9 hours in my first session. I found that when I thought about it less, my transitions came across a lot more smoothly. I also do not want to develop bad habits so this is why I am trying to understand the science behind it.
@@HALFAMAZINGTV Yea i've def noticed that as well. Some tracks have nice long intros and outros which give me room to breathe, other tracks are shorter and I have to use loops to give myself the room. Also like you said, I've noticed some tracks might have the right key and bpm, but it still doesn't mix well, maybe the mids are clashing, or the highs are clashing, and I gotta give some room for the new track, then im fumbling with all the knobs as i make my transition, lol. It's a lot of fun though. Its only been 2 days since I got my controller, I will continue practicing and watching your videos and I will figure it out. I can tell from this video how much you love it, i am similar.
Another important fact to make this work is to mix in key which makes the songs flow so much better
Excellent tutorial and my favorite so far. Thanks for the tip :)
I like learning from you because I know your soul is in it to win it and your on truth not popularity with what you do. 💯
Appreciate the kind words my brother. i wish you the very best and a safe weekend! Respect.
Well said 👏
thank youuuuuuu, you explain it enough and thats that! keep up the great content.
I love the EQ mixing, but how do you cue in and hear your next track if all the EQs are turned down?
Oh and by the way, that's I call mixing. As in overlay 1 track on top of the other.
man your amazing thank you for this valuable information,could you tell me how to make my own music journey
very good tutorial on mixing and blending songs in this way....... ALSO, is that a pioneer djm 3000??? I still have mine from 2002.
awesome mixer and video :-)
Question? The reason for that loop after the ‘one” of phrase. Was it too noisy? 🤓
sorr sandra for the late reply. In a way, yes. it's to prevent the extra noise and sometimes I may have to cut the loop so it doesn't go into other sounds. with proper eq and speed, you can mask it without anyone really noticing.
HALFAMAZINGTV thank you again for your response. I do notice sometimes that the 1st note of the bar is too noisy ( not just beats) and I have to loop a cleaner portion of phrase. This was an awesome lesson. Thank you again
I'm a Dj/Producer, techie person and this video gave me a better perspective of what should I do at the moment of produce in the DAW and when I'm in front of the crowd. Nowdays,I think you become a good Dj when you produce, and VICEVERSA!!!, they're complementary each other and phrase mixing plays a vital role in the studio and the dancefloor. It's all about curate the music and the journey... Cheers
I really appreciate your insight. It makes so much sense, especially to hear it from someone who produces. Good stuff, brother!
Thanks brother you’re a real one ☝️ hope to keep learning with your TH-cam videos, thanks!
such a. piece of advice an video, thanks man!
Anytime Martin!
who is speaking @16:16 ?
My bad for the delay. It's the funktion house on TH-cam- Dj Riz
Always when I watch a halfamazing video couple of times I learn something New each time. Thank you !
Thanks Deo. Appreciate it.
well done bruv!, good and informative vid
Appreciate it Tres! Thanks for the watch.
Love your tutorials! 😎🤙🏾
appreciate it Steve. Putting one out tonight just for you!
@@HALFAMAZINGTV great! Content on my channel coming soon 😎🤙🏾
NOTHING WRONG WITH THAT!
can you paste links to this interviews? I would like to see them
will do. give me a few. I will hit you back when they are up.
I just added them. Enjoy!
I like your mindset.
I'm starting as a house dj and this is something I fight in my mind every time I play.
Thanks
Welcome to the game! I really hope you fall onto great success and joy. Keep me posted on your progress.
HALFAMAZINGTV
The big issue here is as you stated on other video. Difficult to get the gigs when venues prefer the not necessarily best, but more expensive guys.
@@djcarlosalicea1638 the other part is that we are having to figh the complacent djs who love to tout "it is what it is" mentality. They watch the house burn and don't say anything in order to fit in. We must breakaway from those type of djs.
HALFAMAZINGTV
TRUE
I am listening again while writing, and the momentum part is crucial and hard to work in a live mixing situation.
It's true that as a dj, you should have the power to control the vibe, but it's difficult when you get caught between songs that you really like.
That's where loops are really handy.
@@djcarlosalicea1638 I like where you are going with this. Please explain further.
Thank you for this! Just stumbled across your channel; I love your enthusiasm! I'd like to see more technical detail - don't know if there's a demand for that generally? But still, I learned a lot from this video - subbed, and I shall catch up on what I've missed! All the best!
Appreciate you stopping by. Always open to new ideas. Thanks for the support.
Great vid much love and respect from South Africa
Why cant there be both? Well balanced. I phrase and use clean old achool mixing. But i also drop mix and use acapella pieces, & loops, and some FX, filters etc. But nothing to crazy. I try to make it all flow and sound clean together. Mixing oldschool styles in with new. And i can i started mixing house, breaks, and DnB back in 2000 on vinyl. And recently switched to digital and controller mixing. I think it was made to happen.
I don't believe I necessarily argued for any particular style in being the only/best. It all depends on the style of music. The quick drops/fx work especially well for faster tempo. Quick drops/fx in deeper/slower grooves can disrupt the vibe, depending on where you are and time of night. Again, you are not incorrect in your assessment.
@@HALFAMAZINGTV if you wouldn't mind checking out me and my gf, open format freestyle mixing some house b2b here ( th-cam.com/video/uDcf-GpNYgY/w-d-xo.html ) that would be awesome thanks. This is us last friday just messing around at home.
This is good. I was confused about why you allowed phrase to go one extra beat before releasing loop. Since you set loop one bar after phrase, then in order for it to match up, you have to release it one bar after phrase begins.
yep! sometimes it work, sometimes i just let it go because most people don't notice. i see you did, 🤫
You showing stock footage of people having fun doesn't help. I was trying to watch and figure out your transition and every time you faded into club footage.
read the comments below. it has already been discussed. as a dj, you should pay more attention. this way you don't waste your time on issues already addressed. my suggestion!
@@HALFAMAZINGTV as a DJ I should spend more time reading comments on TH-cam? I appreciate your suggestion, I will read more comments on TH-cam. That way I'll be ready to play the big venues. Thank you.
Think you should've taken all of deck 2 out on that mini break before the drop on deck 1
That works too! Good catch.
Yeah man I feel ya, it’s about the groove and the vibe. Counting is just for beginners and most tutorials are aimed at them. Thanks for sharing.
Appreciate the watch cryp!
great vid man! It's about the feel, and there's a little layer of preparation and technique needed to stay in the feel :)
Totally agree with you 👍👍
So dope!
Glad to see you back!
Great example this! Good video 👍👍
Appreciate it. Thanks for watching! 👊
Yes vary old style mixing.👍 I was teach by disco DJ. The 70s they call messgering 4,8,16 bar on track or train racket.
That was very informative Johnny! I gotta small question. At what point you start looping the ending track I mean the camelphat track?
Thanks. i loop it just right before the bass goes out and where its not so busy with vocals/fx. I do this to keep the momentum. If the bass goes, the mix loses momentum. its all about searching for the right spot ahead of time (if you have time during the mix).
there is no specific place. just as long as you can get a tight 4 bar loop.
@@HALFAMAZINGTV Thanks alot Johnny! I'll try this. I watched your previous videos also but they're not clear of how you mix them but this one is clear and if you can please remove background girls dancing stuff when you start mixing so we can see you mixing and the mixer properly. I started understanding your style of mixing. Much love from Sri Lanka.
@@supunjayasiri2955 No worries. Appreciate the feedback.
I have a new video up explaining in more detail of where to start the mix... Hopefully helps you out!
thank u sir !
Amazing video, awesome overlay. Very awesome perspective, keep it up!
Appreciate the kind words, Diego. Will do!
Like a pro!!👌
Nothing beats clean old school mixing. Great video. I’m not a big fan of over using effects
I was getting into this video and loving what you were saying but then when you started to mix and you couldn’t actually see anything really that you were doing because of the videos playing over the top! Great content but don’t think you need the glamour shots over because it distracts from what you’re trying to get across and no one can see.
Totally understood. People already mentioned it and i removed it in later videos. Appreciate the feedback!
Legendary editing. Underrated.
appreciate it stefuun!
So with the 2mins left you won’t be able to do this style of phrasing obviously. It can only be done every 2nd mix?
Great question! It depends on multiple factors. Believe it or not, most electronic djs play intro to outro. For them, they phrase the entire set. The reason why is because they often play one sound. For me, i usually phrase the early part of the set as the is music deeper. once i get into bigger/ harder and faster tempo, i use breakdown mixing where I mix at the breakdown to create my own drops. I also like to layer, so i will have two tracks running, where the outgoing track never sees the end.
Watch my "how to quick mix" and "how to layer progressive tech house tutorials". you will see that the mixing styles depend heavily on the energy and impact you are trying to achieve. i prefer a mix of all transitions during a set.
very well put. If you play the video of you mixing and add a seperate audio overlay to explain what you are doing it would be great. Also, please remove the dancing videos, its better to focus on your mixing.
overall, great philosophy and I will train and sub to you! Thanks
thanks for watching and the suggestions. Note taken.
I disagree when you say they expect more from a dj. Being in the scene for many many years in LA, SF and New York I can tell you that very seldom do people say "daaaanm" did you hear how smooth that dj mixed. It's all about the tracks and dropping them at the right time. Most people nowadays go to clubs to take pictures, drink and hook up not so much for the mixing style of the dj.
I totally get you Carlos and you are absolutely correct. However, this channel caters mostly to newer djs, so the idea is to cultivate the mindset of an artist, then allow them to seek their own truth based on their particular scenes. Furthermore, many of the subscribers are from Europe, so the scene is vastly different then to the US as it is today.
@@HALFAMAZINGTV great point. Yea def very different from the USA. I enjoy your videos very much...
It's not about being a "trickster", it about reading the crowd and adapting. A big difference between "big picture" and being "one dimensional". Reading your room and, pleasing the crowd, not your ego, or your "perfections", and or staff....?!? Keep your mind on the dance floor, not the bartenders, dancers or staff......?!? More so the people who spent their hard earned $$$ to have a good time, and be entertained son.....?!?
ADD clubbers. Know what you mean!
Good Dj.But pacing like he on blow.But cool guy I like him.
Good video, but the overlay of people dancing ruined it
that DJ vs Producer comparison is all wrong and funny in a sad way 😅
I am not always in the right. More importantly, is that you put all that effort into attaching a funny emoji to a criticism, which highlights your level of maturity.
@HALFAMAZINGTV wasn't much effort really... Just like now 😅
@ahmedshingy3927 good stuff👍
Nice video, but stop showing people dancing on video, I came here to see your movements
Appreciate the feedback; well noted!
This guy. DJs are the artists not the guys writing the music they hit play on? lol
The artistry exists in both spaces. For sure there is art in being a good selecter and understnading what to play and when - that artistry is the fundamental difference beween a true DJ who can take the crowd on a journey and a human jukebox.
pls dont blend this dancing girls in. I want to see what you are doing.
I stopped doing it in my newest videos. thanks for the critique.
Hey man those silly visuals are very distracting and go over the most important parts of your tutorial. Cut them out please, they don't help.
read the other comments and watch my more recent videos. the issue has already been discussed. you look a little silly for not paying attention. Be more observant.
@@HALFAMAZINGTV I don't need to be observant, I don't need to be anything. I'm a viewer enjoying your videos and felt it import to respectfully provide feedback on your videos. If the problems been fixed, that's all that needs to be said
@@danielromeu3713 you are an entitled piece of shit.. when you enter a free classroom, you address the instructor appropriately. Part of the learning process is reading comments to ensure you choose your words carefully. saying to remove "silly pictures" is part of my art. If you can't address it appropriately, there are more channels for you to watch. Don't be shocked when people bite back at your rude approach..
@@HALFAMAZINGTV you really are something eh? If you think calling someone giving you advice an entitled piece of shit is appropriate then I'm surprised you've made it as fas as you have un this channel. I called them silly graphics because I found it frustrating that while trying to learn off the videos from which You are profiting I was distracted by those clips blocking the view of your mixer. I gave a recommendation and you've been incredibly disrespectful and innapropjate. Take a top buddy and grow up. I can't belive you let some manipulate you into playing wtf along
bro i am sorry but thats not how you teach other people
everyone is entitled to their own opinion and methods. Looking forward to your life changing tutorials.
Mate those idiotic videos of people dancing are ruining everything....
I could give a shit what you think, mate. watch your tone when you address me. perhaps then your entitled ass would realize that this has been addressed multiple times in the comment section and that I have since addressed it. Would you like a beverage with that?
@@HALFAMAZINGTV hahaha chill thats the first video i seen from you and didn't even go through comments. and now you made it your last video i will see. fuckin idiot. good luck with that attitude