5 Mistakes DJs Make #5 2:55 Not Packing Enough Music #4 3:55 Not Trendsetting aka Not Breaking Records (Playing the Beatport 100 or another DJ's Tracklist) #3 5:07 Not Watching the Crowd aka Laptop Face #2 7:12 Not Focusing on Technique aka One Trick Ponies #1 9:50 No Storytelling Thanks @Laidback Luke always good to refresh your memory on the things that matter!
Jean Joseph in response of trend setting, some venues in NYC will not hire you or will straight up cut off a DJ if they don't play what the club ask which is usually lame ass top 40. As for story telling, that only matters for a club and festival set. In a lounge and bar setting, people come and go through the night and story telling has no place in these settings. Playing to the crowd to me is #1 thing all DJs have to do reguardless of technique.
Thank you so much Sir after the video I was like "what did he just say?" I have a hard time paying attention I would have picked up faster if the video was shorter.
I am 53 and still spinning, but just for nursing home therapy. My mentors were Larry Levin from Paradise Garage and mostly Dave Mancuso from The Loft. You have made me proud young man, there is hope for the Next Generation . You have mastered master the art and can't wear that black belt probably. Cujo's and carry that torch proudly. Enjoying watching your videos. Keep up the good work as a father
I'm a disco and techno fan, and to be honest not into your music selections at all. But its good to see an established DJ trying to help up and comers, (which is a super rare thing especially in the techno scene) whilst being so honest about what is required to perform and actually DJ, knowledge of which unfortunately seems to be becoming less prevalent. What your doing on this channel is unique and appreciated, and your honesty and humility make you super interesting to listen to thanks.
Hey Luke, I totally agree with your mistake list, as usual. I would like to specify the not "packing enough music" a bit so it reads: Packing enough tracks and preparing those tracks with cues/loops etc. Lots of DJ's just download collections (enough tracks) let their DJ software analyze them, but actually hear the track for the first time when it's loaded into a deck during a gig because the BPM/keys match.
Just finished a set at my local club and I have to say that your lessons you've taught through your vlogs and seminars have helped me so much. My sets were all over the place until you talked about creating a vibe, playing similar genres together and giving the crowd what they want until they're sick of it. Sounds simple but it's so crucial. Also that quote: it's what you play between the hits that matters, has really stuck with me and it shows. Thank you luke!
I had my 1st certain gig in the town .. in soon situation i dint even got time to get known whether crowd will love me or not.. i was fully unprepared with everything like no trending tracks that people might love to dance with or could not n not make it that level with all got vanished by over smartness that i felt from inside after the party .. wish could have watch this video before i prepare to get in on the deck. Thanks for this one Sir
MOVE TO THE SOUND 😍😍⚡ I played that music on my school class and everybody loved it (even the teacher) !!! Tnx for existing LL, already excited for the next video!!!
Always positive vibe and good tips for upcoming DJs, you're the only DJ i know which keep the DJ art alive and take risk on stage while playing in big festivals. your vlogs and tips was always helpful for us Luke.. Keep it up ..
So much proud to have been part of the Elektric Park crowd this year ! It's been a really long time I wanted to see you in live! What a show ! 🔥🔥 I was waiting this vlog about Elektric Park for so long! And I was kinda actually really impressed and respectful about the fact, like one the mistakes DJs don't do enough : you really watch the crowd and analyse its reaction ! Thank you for everything you teach us 🙏 As a beginner dj and martial art practiser you're one of the greatest example to follow 👌🔥
i am happy you still talk about "Story Telling" and "Watching the Crowd" for DJ. nowadys, many DJ lost those elements which is essential and basic for "DJ" You still play festival and i really like the way you don't set up the set and just improvise with the Crowd. Good Luck and Thank you for the Great Vlog ;)
Been binge watching a lot of your videos today, have to say I used to be one of those who thought you were a big room pre recorded set guy, but after catching you at Creamfields a few years back I was converted, then watching all these vlogs I've gained so much knowledge thats helped progress my Djing! Thank you! Also.... where can I get that black jacket?! lol :)
Great post and your #1 is ON POINT - "storytelling" is what I learned as "educating the crowd", back in the early 80's when I first began djing. The cats I learned from always had tracks in their crate that they felt like they HAD TO SHARE with the crowd because they felt this music was just so good, and then felt is was going to blow up also. And by the time I wanted to do it as a passion and as a professional, learning how to educate and share good music with the crowd was sooo important. Your list of 5 mistakes is definitely on point. Again, you're the only cat out here discussing....well WAIT...you and DJ TLM - you guys are really providing some very good tips and educational content. Keep it up. And we need you to come to Hawaii and share your love with us 💯 PEACE! ✌🏾
Thank you Luke for keeping it down to earth. Great remainder about things DJs are not taking serious. Look forward to see a video about how you organize your music library. My lock of memory and the large number of music that comes out have me going to the limit in organizing my library. Good luck on the road.
Hey, Luke. I have a good question. Could you give some advice on simply what steps to follow for a bedroom DJ to actually make it out from the bedroom to a club, for instance? Could you give some examples on what actually works and what not (uploading mixes, visiting clubs, etc). Much love from Lithuania!
Vytautas Matulevičius record some mixes and get them online aseell as memory sticks then message the clubs. Or better still drop in and see a manager. Thats what worked for me 😊 But i would say go to the club as a punter a few times. Get to know the venue so u know if your style fits.
As someone who's just made that transition, you just gotta go to clubs and speak to managers or know the right people who throw parties, I'm on my way to a residency cause when I get that one chance I blow everyone away. Just gotta take that shot once you get it, and don't worry if you have to do free trial sessions early in nights, it's so they know you're legit, I've done that then gotten closing sets/headlining with quite well known DJs
I started DJing in January and happened to have the right connections. Two of my friends were DJing tons of house parties so I studied under them for the first 4 months, focusing on technique and improving my skills. After I uploaded my first mix in May (has about 6k on the original, and 9k on a reupload by some douche [im copyright striking him]) an acquaintance on Facebook that I met at a songwriter meetup 3 years prior who owns an events company messaged me about opening an event at a pub/club hybrid. The show went well, so they invited me to open another show at Vancouver's biggest nightclub. I performed well again and made other connections when I could, and now after 9 months I've played 4 major clubs in Vancouver and charge. I can't stress enough how important building your network and practicing your technique are. If you don't engage in conversation with other DJs and industry professionals, if want matter how good you are at DJing, you'll never get opportunities. It also doesn't matter who you know if you suck at DJing, as no one will ever be impressed and offer you gigs. I hope this helps you and if you want to listen to my shit, just search "Alex Rose G House", its the first couple results. Cheers and good luck!
Much agreed Luke! Great advice I work hard to tell upcoming talent in my region. I replace storytelling as an explanation with "take them through a journey." It tends to help illustrate the point out here a lot better. I cite you Sensation White 2005 set as perhaps an ultimate example of executing the storytelling aspect - it moved and flowed so magically. Keep up the energy, keep up the vibe! You're rocking it man! Much love & respect.
Great video Luke, I could not agree with you more. I remember going out to clubs and watching DJs like Junior Vasquez, Timmy Regisford, Louie Vega and many more that you through a ride, a long set (4-8 hr) ride. Keep up the great work Luke.
Biggest thing has to be the storytelling, just doesn't happen any more! Partly due to some "fans" just wanting drop, after drop with no build up. This is the art! Thanks Luke great VLOG
Thanks for being my DJ mentor Luke. I started to practice Djing couple months ago, and I started by imitating your "In the mind series 1" It's really helpful! Thanks a lot, Luke.
Great tips, I fall guilty of this often and never really thought of it. I know reading your crowd was always a thing but, there is so much more to it and thats why I must practice practice practice.
YAY :) Thx so much. Im only 14 and I have to run the sounds and lights in my school, which is basically like a nightclub, so your videos have allowed me to improve as a REAL mechanical DJ, because Freestyle is the best. Cant wait for the next in my mind, so amazing to get in your head :)
Absolutely right with the #1, have experienced that live in ibiza, i couldn't understand where "guy" was trying to go at all, that made my experience just "meh" rather than "wow". Guess we all should go back to those 4/5 hour sets sometimes. Great staff Luke 👊🏼
Thank you so much for your tips. I am going to play my first gig at a friends 16th birthday in about a month and i think these will really help me. Keep it up !
Great video as always. I watch these every week without fail before my Friday night residency in London UK! Excellent work! You've mentioned a few times that its good to play a couple of songs from a genre before switching to another genre. I partially agree with this and just to add my 2 pence into the mix.... I think sometimes its nice to throw the odd curveball and get a surprised reaction from the crowd and then go straight back into what was played before. Or even to throw the odd hiphop track in a house set and go straight back into house (almost like a little teaser). It works for me if executed perfectly, but I guess as long as the energy level is maintained and the tracks somewhat make sense to the audience.
Like how you mentioned songs being energy packages. I've tagged my tracks using the 5 star rating for energy levels instead of for rating the song in general, also tag it Low, Mid, High in the comments field so it gives a broad idea of energy.
Hi Luke....was wondering about your music playlist. 1. How much time do you spend in a day to listen and pick new trend setting music you want to play in a set? 2. Do you listen to every track from start to finish or do you fast forward to the interesting bits like maybe identify where in the track would make a good Drop or Phrase during mixing?
youre awesome vlogger! honestly i am dubstep/electro/(original)trap guy so i may not be best at musoc producing (for my taste) but youre best at being interesting!
Thanks for the video! As an upcoming DJ I appreciate your knowledge and the time you take to help those like me be different from the rest mad love Luke!
Had this problem last Friday. Was suppose to play 1 hour set in Ministry and ended up doing 2.5 hours. I was stretched out with my songs completely, but luckily found second USB with some old-school bangers in my bag. Great advise Luke in this Vlog. Thank you.
100% agree, take your audience on a journey! Don't confuse them by being over the place genre hopping with no rhyme or reason. Stylus and I used to talk about that all the time, Shout out to the metalhead turned breakbeat maestro Paul Campbell! His adamant insistence that we were there for the crowd not the the other way around was a personal truism for me. Watch the crowd, figure out what is going to drive them to and keep them on the dance floor and play a set that leaves them satisfied. Doesn't matter if it is in a tiny afterhours club like UV or The Abyss or headlining The Edge in Orlando, Masquerade in Tampa, Crobar in Chicago, Limelight or The Tunnel (I miss you Peter, and thank you for dragging me kicking and screaming back home to the city from Florida getting me sober and putting me back on track, the club scene in NYC hasn't ever been the same without you) in NYC, Gatecrasher in the UK or Manumission in Ibiza, Dj's are hired to keep the venue hopping....Wow, kinda showing my age here. Ah well even though I was a tiny fish in those ponds, being able to have been a part of the scene back in it's early days reminds me why I fell in love with music in the first place. Much love Luke, you will always be one of my favorites! May the Buddha always smile on you and your endeavors.
Awesome video on DJ technique! Especially the last part where you mentioned story telling. I will definitely put that into perspective the next time I play my next event! Thanks Laidback Luke for the insight!
Hey Luke and fans! One of my biggest mistakes is being distracted. I always love to dance and talk to new people, and I have tendency to lose where I am, or forget what I did couple of minutes ago. 🤦🏼♂️😂 Awesome video Luke! I always take notes when I learn new ideas!
Hello Luke your number one mistake that Djs do is something I always thought about, thanks for this. I always make sure I see your videos each week. Question I have is would you consider listening to mixes by your viewers to give out some tips so we can improve our skill. Thanks again and never stop doing all that you do its all so helpful.
Everything said on this vlog is so true!!! After seeing your seminar on djing I label the energy levels of every track I have via comments on rekordbox and go off of that! Works so well! Especially as an opener at certain gigs! Been using this method for years now. Is it tedious, yes, but luck and opportunity favors the prepared!
This reminds me of a time I saw DJ Khalid in San Francisco. He spent about 30 mins teasing the crowd by shouting out to California locations on the mic but then dropping into New York tracks. Then after this half hour of teasing, he went ALL west coast until the end and the crowd lost their minds. Thanks for illustrating what he was doing with these tips
Can we go deeper in the "behind the scenes"? Do you get a chance to say yes or no to some festivals or shows? When booked for a festival, are you aware of your time-slot months before the actual festivals occurs? When you host the super you and me stage, do you get to choose artist you want on the line up, or does the festival organizer choose? Do people actually try to "be your friend" or girls try to hit on you to get them on guestlist?
Great reminder about the story telling a set. Got back into Dj-ing everything. You said I've been doing except the story telling. Thanks for the reminder L's up. 😎
A lot of people ask about how to get paid gigs or club gigs, so I wanna share my journey since I became a DJ: I started DJing in January and happened to have the right connections. Two of my friends were DJing tons of house parties so I studied under them for the first 4 months, focusing on technique and improving my skills. After I uploaded my first mix in May (has about 6k on the original, and 9k on a reupload by some douche [im copyright striking him]) an acquaintance on Facebook that I met at a songwriter meetup 3 years prior who owns an events company messaged me about opening an event at a pub/club hybrid. The show went well, so they invited me to open another show at Vancouver's biggest nightclub. I performed well again and made other connections when I could, and now after 9 months I've played 4 major clubs in Vancouver and charge. I can't stress enough how important building your network and practicing your technique are. If you don't engage in conversation with other DJs and industry professionals, if want matter how good you are at DJing, you'll never get opportunities. It also doesn't matter who you know if you suck at DJing, as no one will ever be impressed and offer you gigs. I hope this helps you and if you want to listen to my shit, just search "Alex Rose G House", its the first couple results. Cheers and good luck!
Hi Laidback Luke. Thanks for preparing this video with so useful information. I never thought about trendsetting when built up my set and this will make an entire difference for me now.
Starting out, I'm very appreciative of the time and effort it takes to keep these videos coming. I respect the art and love how you have kept being U, as times continue to evolve in the industry/music. Thanks!
Laidback Luke I have been deejaying for seven years now and have been watching your videos for the past three months wanna take the time to thank you for making me a better deejay mad love huge fan on your tips also advice
Thanks for sharing laidback luke great video vlog with allot of good information that will help allot of beginner djs and that they will have a better understanding of being a dj. 👍👏
Great tips here luke. Loving the vlogs as always. But gutted to hear the sad news that your glasgow gig in october has been cancelled 🙁. Hope you come back soon
Story time! Help me get LL to know how he changed my life at EDC! Your set at edc 2011 was my all time favorite moment at edc. Me and my friend met two random guys at the middle railing and played catch with a glow stick to the drops of your music. Only to find the guy pull off his hat put the glowstick in it and throw it to me. We continued to attempt random moves with it until he pulled out his phone and threw it to me just to type out hi in a text message. The next toss to exchange names. Caught up in the music it took us a few throws to realize that we could just put our numbers in it and not risk throwing his phone anymore lol Experiencing this type of community, in front of a immaculate LED massive stage, with a quality artist as yourself pouring his soul out into the music, will forever encompass what makes edc special to me. Oh and the fact I met my loving girlfriend at edc 2016. We dated long distance for a year and now are living together on our way to being married. My point is thank you for everything you do for the community. I will forever respect all that you have done for the Dj community. Lastly, I want to thank you for throwing one of the best sets I have seen in years Luke. It was on day 2 of edc this year. I literally cried 4 times because of the flashbacks it gave me of how glorious the main stage used to be the first two years in Vegas with its massive LED screens and the quality sets performed on it. Although, I will admit it is pretty cool to see the other stages production grow as the main stage shrinks.
Having started DJing in the 90’s as well, you say 5 things which are so “obvious” to me and so “useless” to today’s DJs, unfortunately. Always a pleasure to see and hear that from somebody who brings the real thing on ;)
these tips are going to be really helpful for me as well as other aspiring DJs. and i must say nobody will give you these advices for FREE. Salute to this man Laidback Luke, India and i Love youuuuu.😊
Hey!!. First, I want to say "I love the work you are putting out on the "Tube". 2nd, the pic you see is my wife not me lol. And now the about me. I am a flrmer dj if I can say that. I started in the mid 80's and was pretty decent. Ingot outbof it due to life situations and the Marine Corps. Now in mybmid life years I found really missingbthat bihe and after no more giving myself excuses not to, I am doing it. How you explaine diffrent techniques and getting back to read crowds, beat matching, you have given me more fire and passion for this. And I want to say "Thank you and keep putting out quality videos". Thank you
As primarily a wedding DJ, the story telling is something I really try and focus on, but then it usually comes crashing down when someone is constantly demanding something really random. "Oh, we're at a wedding? Good time to request Trapt's "Headstrong". However, it can be fun to try and figure out how to work it in, if even for a short bit.
That genre hopping stuff is something I don't really like , so I agree with u Luke. When you perform, take us on a trip , not an iPod playlist of everything I'm gonna hear on my MP3 or phone . This is partially why I worry about seeing certain performances of new artist, I worry they are gonna do buildup drops and just mix everything I've heard before. Imo
Story telling is so crucial to ANY set weather your practicing at home or in front of 300 at a club or even at a major festival!!! Thank you for making this a Public Service Announcement to all who watch this. L’s Up 👆🏽👆🏽
I really appreciate your videos and tips :) They are really helpful and some Techniques you shows us in your "In My Mind"- Videos i already tryed and some of them are sooo easy but i dont hear a lot DJ's using them, even if they are really really cool. Keep up the Great work. I am really sure we are going to met somewhere in the future! :D
Nice vlog, as usual. I found the last point very interesting, and it would be really great if you could make a video about "telling a story with music".
Hey Luke! Wouldn't it be cool to have a kind of series called *''From bedroom to mainstage''* consisting of (short) videos which teach us the techniques you use in your ''In My Mind'' tutorials? They wouldn't need to be very long, just precise and well categorized. Cheers, Audastrian
Hi Laidback ! I went to the electrik park festival, and was waiting so you long to see you, but i havr to admit that i got a bit disappointed. Not because of your music, but because the crowd wasn’ton point, i’ve heard a lot of people saying that the music you played wasn’t good enough, but i just wanted to tell them that you were the only dj of the festival (maybe with joachim garraud) who really mix live and don’t push the play button. There was a lot of young people aswell so they weren’t feeling it. But anyway, thanks for coming to france and i hope to see you again !
5 Mistakes DJs Make
#5 2:55 Not Packing Enough Music
#4 3:55 Not Trendsetting aka Not Breaking Records (Playing the Beatport 100 or another DJ's Tracklist)
#3 5:07 Not Watching the Crowd aka Laptop Face
#2 7:12 Not Focusing on Technique aka One Trick Ponies
#1 9:50 No Storytelling
Thanks @Laidback Luke always good to refresh your memory on the things that matter!
ty
Thanks!
Are u driving the Mercedes Benz to the party?
Jean Joseph in response of trend setting, some venues in NYC will not hire you or will straight up cut off a DJ if they don't play what the club ask which is usually lame ass top 40. As for story telling, that only matters for a club and festival set. In a lounge and bar setting, people come and go through the night and story telling has no place in these settings. Playing to the crowd to me is #1 thing all DJs have to do reguardless of technique.
Thank you so much Sir after the video I was like "what did he just say?" I have a hard time paying attention I would have picked up faster if the video was shorter.
I am 53 and still spinning, but just for nursing home therapy. My mentors were Larry Levin from Paradise Garage and mostly Dave Mancuso from The Loft. You have made me proud young man, there is hope for the Next Generation . You have mastered master the art and can't wear that black belt probably. Cujo's and carry that torch proudly. Enjoying watching your videos. Keep up the good work as a father
I'm a disco and techno fan, and to be honest not into your music selections at all. But its good to see an established DJ trying to help up and comers, (which is a super rare thing especially in the techno scene) whilst being so honest about what is required to perform and actually DJ, knowledge of which unfortunately seems to be becoming less prevalent. What your doing on this channel is unique and appreciated, and your honesty and humility make you super interesting to listen to thanks.
Hey Luke, I totally agree with your mistake list, as usual.
I would like to specify the not "packing enough music" a bit so it reads:
Packing enough tracks and preparing those tracks with cues/loops etc. Lots of DJ's just download collections (enough tracks) let their DJ software analyze them, but actually hear the track for the first time when it's loaded into a deck during a gig because the BPM/keys match.
"Justin Case," holy crap that is one of the best names I've ever heard.
Just finished a set at my local club and I have to say that your lessons you've taught through your vlogs and seminars have helped me so much. My sets were all over the place until you talked about creating a vibe, playing similar genres together and giving the crowd what they want until they're sick of it. Sounds simple but it's so crucial. Also that quote: it's what you play between the hits that matters, has really stuck with me and it shows. Thank you luke!
I had my 1st certain gig in the town .. in soon situation i dint even got time to get known whether crowd will love me or not.. i was fully unprepared with everything like no trending tracks that people might love to dance with or could not n not make it that level with all got vanished by over smartness that i felt from inside after the party .. wish could have watch this video before i prepare to get in on the deck. Thanks for this one Sir
MOVE TO THE SOUND 😍😍⚡ I played that music on my school class and everybody loved it (even the teacher) !!! Tnx for existing LL, already excited for the next video!!!
Always positive vibe and good tips for upcoming DJs, you're the only DJ i know which keep the DJ art alive and take risk on stage while playing in big festivals. your vlogs and tips was always helpful for us Luke.. Keep it up ..
The reason Luke is so awesome to see live is because you never know what's coming but it's always what you want to hear... never change man!
True respect to Laidback Luke for all these informative videos! 💚
So much proud to have been part of the Elektric Park crowd this year ! It's been a really long time I wanted to see you in live!
What a show ! 🔥🔥
I was waiting this vlog about Elektric Park for so long!
And I was kinda actually really impressed and respectful about the fact, like one the mistakes DJs don't do enough : you really watch the crowd and analyse its reaction !
Thank you for everything you teach us 🙏
As a beginner dj and martial art practiser you're one of the greatest example to follow 👌🔥
i am happy you still talk about "Story Telling" and "Watching the Crowd" for DJ.
nowadys, many DJ lost those elements which is essential and basic for "DJ"
You still play festival and i really like the way you don't set up the set and just improvise with the Crowd. Good Luck and Thank you for the Great Vlog ;)
Been binge watching a lot of your videos today, have to say I used to be one of those who thought you were a big room pre recorded set guy, but after catching you at Creamfields a few years back I was converted, then watching all these vlogs I've gained so much knowledge thats helped progress my Djing! Thank you! Also.... where can I get that black jacket?! lol :)
Great post and your #1 is ON POINT - "storytelling" is what I learned as "educating the crowd", back in the early 80's when I first began djing. The cats I learned from always had tracks in their crate that they felt like they HAD TO SHARE with the crowd because they felt this music was just so good, and then felt is was going to blow up also. And by the time I wanted to do it as a passion and as a professional, learning how to educate and share good music with the crowd was sooo important. Your list of 5 mistakes is definitely on point. Again, you're the only cat out here discussing....well WAIT...you and DJ TLM - you guys are really providing some very good tips and educational content. Keep it up. And we need you to come to Hawaii and share your love with us 💯 PEACE! ✌🏾
Thank you Luke for keeping it down to earth. Great remainder about things DJs are not taking serious. Look forward to see a video about how you organize your music library. My lock of memory and the large number of music that comes out have me going to the limit in organizing my library. Good luck on the road.
I love how you are so humble and fame has not got to you much respect to you enjoy all your videos
Hey, Luke. I have a good question. Could you give some advice on simply what steps to follow for a bedroom DJ to actually make it out from the bedroom to a club, for instance? Could you give some examples on what actually works and what not (uploading mixes, visiting clubs, etc). Much love from Lithuania!
Vytautas Matulevičius record some mixes and get them online aseell as memory sticks then message the clubs. Or better still drop in and see a manager.
Thats what worked for me 😊
But i would say go to the club as a punter a few times. Get to know the venue so u know if your style fits.
Vytautas Matulevičius He has done a video in this as well
th-cam.com/video/FsfMJxUKtCs/w-d-xo.html
As someone who's just made that transition, you just gotta go to clubs and speak to managers or know the right people who throw parties, I'm on my way to a residency cause when I get that one chance I blow everyone away. Just gotta take that shot once you get it, and don't worry if you have to do free trial sessions early in nights, it's so they know you're legit, I've done that then gotten closing sets/headlining with quite well known DJs
I started DJing in January and happened to have the right connections. Two of my friends were DJing tons of house parties so I studied under them for the first 4 months, focusing on technique and improving my skills. After I uploaded my first mix in May (has about 6k on the original, and 9k on a reupload by some douche [im copyright striking him]) an acquaintance on Facebook that I met at a songwriter meetup 3 years prior who owns an events company messaged me about opening an event at a pub/club hybrid. The show went well, so they invited me to open another show at Vancouver's biggest nightclub. I performed well again and made other connections when I could, and now after 9 months I've played 4 major clubs in Vancouver and charge. I can't stress enough how important building your network and practicing your technique are. If you don't engage in conversation with other DJs and industry professionals, if want matter how good you are at DJing, you'll never get opportunities. It also doesn't matter who you know if you suck at DJing, as no one will ever be impressed and offer you gigs. I hope this helps you and if you want to listen to my shit, just search "Alex Rose G House", its the first couple results.
Cheers and good luck!
Much agreed Luke! Great advice I work hard to tell upcoming talent in my region.
I replace storytelling as an explanation with "take them through a journey." It tends to help illustrate the point out here a lot better. I cite you Sensation White 2005 set as perhaps an ultimate example of executing the storytelling aspect - it moved and flowed so magically.
Keep up the energy, keep up the vibe! You're rocking it man! Much love & respect.
Great video Luke, I could not agree with you more. I remember going out to clubs and watching DJs like Junior Vasquez, Timmy Regisford, Louie Vega and many more that you through a ride, a long set (4-8 hr) ride. Keep up the great work Luke.
Hey Luke, I'm absolutely exciting about your tour in China! Really looking forward to it!!!!
Brilliant. Packaging information it took us decades to learn and putting it in a simple package. Loved it.
Biggest thing has to be the storytelling, just doesn't happen any more! Partly due to some "fans" just wanting drop, after drop with no build up. This is the art!
Thanks Luke great VLOG
Thanks for being my DJ mentor Luke. I started to practice Djing couple months ago, and I started by imitating your "In the mind series 1" It's really helpful!
Thanks a lot, Luke.
Love your vlogs!! They help so much! Really enjoy your music and can’t wait to see you!
just started trying to get into the art recently and just started watching your vids. You rock man, thanks.
tutorial on dj techniques plzzz❤❤❤
Yess!
Please do kungfu technique too
He's got a few videos on DJ techniques, namely transitioning and mashups.
Great tips, I fall guilty of this often and never really thought of it. I know reading your crowd was always a thing but, there is so much more to it and thats why I must practice practice practice.
"Storytelling..." Luke, that's why I really love your sets!!!
YAY :) Thx so much. Im only 14 and I have to run the sounds and lights in my school, which is basically like a nightclub, so your videos have allowed me to improve as a REAL mechanical DJ, because Freestyle is the best. Cant wait for the next in my mind, so amazing to get in your head :)
Really like how you filmed and edited this Luke! Great stuff : )
Absolutely right with the #1, have experienced that live in ibiza, i couldn't understand where "guy" was trying to go at all, that made my experience just "meh" rather than "wow". Guess we all should go back to those 4/5 hour sets sometimes. Great staff Luke 👊🏼
Thank you so much for your tips. I am going to play my first gig at a friends 16th birthday in about a month and i think these will really help me. Keep it up !
Great video as always. I watch these every week without fail before my Friday night residency in London UK! Excellent work!
You've mentioned a few times that its good to play a couple of songs from a genre before switching to another genre. I partially agree with this and just to add my 2 pence into the mix.... I think sometimes its nice to throw the odd curveball and get a surprised reaction from the crowd and then go straight back into what was played before. Or even to throw the odd hiphop track in a house set and go straight back into house (almost like a little teaser). It works for me if executed perfectly, but I guess as long as the energy level is maintained and the tracks somewhat make sense to the audience.
Like how you mentioned songs being energy packages. I've tagged my tracks using the 5 star rating for energy levels instead of for rating the song in general, also tag it Low, Mid, High in the comments field so it gives a broad idea of energy.
Love how you’re being super honest about things in djing and music general ❤️ couldn’t agree more with the things you “just” said 😊
I don’t like your music or djing but your vlogging and videos are really good. Very clear and concise
Great tips as usual! Can you tell us what in-ear headphones you are using and why do you prefer them instead of the classic ones?
pleaseeee answer this!!
He uses beats tour 2 earphones
Hi Luke....was wondering about your music playlist. 1. How much time do you spend in a day to listen and pick new trend setting music you want to play in a set? 2. Do you listen to every track from start to finish or do you fast forward to the interesting bits like maybe identify where in the track would make a good Drop or Phrase during mixing?
youre awesome vlogger! honestly i am dubstep/electro/(original)trap guy so i may not be best at musoc producing (for my taste) but youre best at being interesting!
Thanks for the video! As an upcoming DJ I appreciate your knowledge and the time you take to help those like me be different from the rest mad love Luke!
Had this problem last Friday. Was suppose to play 1 hour set in Ministry and ended up doing 2.5 hours. I was stretched out with my songs completely, but luckily found second USB with some old-school bangers in my bag. Great advise Luke in this Vlog.
Thank you.
I would like to know your perspective on the Hardstyle scene.
100% agree, take your audience on a journey! Don't confuse them by being over the place genre hopping with no rhyme or reason. Stylus and I used to talk about that all the time, Shout out to the metalhead turned breakbeat maestro Paul Campbell! His adamant insistence that we were there for the crowd not the the other way around was a personal truism for me. Watch the crowd, figure out what is going to drive them to and keep them on the dance floor and play a set that leaves them satisfied. Doesn't matter if it is in a tiny afterhours club like UV or The Abyss or headlining The Edge in Orlando, Masquerade in Tampa, Crobar in Chicago, Limelight or The Tunnel (I miss you Peter, and thank you for dragging me kicking and screaming back home to the city from Florida getting me sober and putting me back on track, the club scene in NYC hasn't ever been the same without you) in NYC, Gatecrasher in the UK or Manumission in Ibiza, Dj's are hired to keep the venue hopping....Wow, kinda showing my age here. Ah well even though I was a tiny fish in those ponds, being able to have been a part of the scene back in it's early days reminds me why I fell in love with music in the first place. Much love Luke, you will always be one of my favorites! May the Buddha always smile on you and your endeavors.
Awesome video on DJ technique! Especially the last part where you mentioned story telling. I will definitely put that into perspective the next time I play my next event! Thanks Laidback Luke for the insight!
Please help me! How can I tell a story in my sets? i have no idea ):
Hey Luke and fans! One of my biggest mistakes is being distracted. I always love to dance and talk to new people, and I have tendency to lose where I am, or forget what I did couple of minutes ago. 🤦🏼♂️😂 Awesome video Luke! I always take notes when I learn new ideas!
Hello Luke your number one mistake that Djs do is something I always thought about, thanks for this. I always make sure I see your videos each week. Question I have is would you consider listening to mixes by your viewers to give out some tips so we can improve our skill. Thanks again and never stop doing all that you do its all so helpful.
Everything said on this vlog is so true!!! After seeing your seminar on djing I label the energy levels of every track I have via comments on rekordbox and go off of that! Works so well! Especially as an opener at certain gigs! Been using this method for years now. Is it tedious, yes, but luck and opportunity favors the prepared!
This reminds me of a time I saw DJ Khalid in San Francisco. He spent about 30 mins teasing the crowd by shouting out to California locations on the mic but then dropping into New York tracks. Then after this half hour of teasing, he went ALL west coast until the end and the crowd lost their minds. Thanks for illustrating what he was doing with these tips
Can we go deeper in the "behind the scenes"?
Do you get a chance to say yes or no to some festivals or shows?
When booked for a festival, are you aware of your time-slot months before the actual festivals occurs?
When you host the super you and me stage, do you get to choose artist you want on the line up, or does the festival organizer choose?
Do people actually try to "be your friend" or girls try to hit on you to get them on guestlist?
You're the man, Luke!!! Keep it up! All the best!
Great reminder about the story telling a set. Got back into Dj-ing everything. You said I've been doing except the story telling. Thanks for the reminder L's up. 😎
agreeing so much on the story telling part, love what you're doing !
Good video.
I agree, story telling/journey/experience of a set is most important. 😎
A lot of people ask about how to get paid gigs or club gigs, so I wanna share my journey since I became a DJ:
I started DJing in January and happened to have the right connections. Two of my friends were DJing tons of house parties so I studied under them for the first 4 months, focusing on technique and improving my skills. After I uploaded my first mix in May (has about 6k on the original, and 9k on a reupload by some douche [im copyright striking him]) an acquaintance on Facebook that I met at a songwriter meetup 3 years prior who owns an events company messaged me about opening an event at a pub/club hybrid. The show went well, so they invited me to open another show at Vancouver's biggest nightclub. I performed well again and made other connections when I could, and now after 9 months I've played 4 major clubs in Vancouver and charge. I can't stress enough how important building your network and practicing your technique are. If you don't engage in conversation with other DJs and industry professionals, if want matter how good you are at DJing, you'll never get opportunities. It also doesn't matter who you know if you suck at DJing, as no one will ever be impressed and offer you gigs. I hope this helps you and if you want to listen to my shit, just search "Alex Rose G House", its the first couple results.
Cheers and good luck!
Hi Laidback Luke. Thanks for preparing this video with so useful information. I never thought about trendsetting when built up my set and this will make an entire difference for me now.
Starting out, I'm very appreciative of the time and effort it takes to keep these videos coming. I respect the art and love how you have kept being U, as times continue to evolve in the industry/music. Thanks!
Really good you took the train! Helping the environment a bit!
Laidback Luke I have been deejaying for seven years now and have been watching your videos for the past three months wanna take the time to thank you for making me a better deejay mad love huge fan on your tips also advice
Thanks for sharing laidback luke great video vlog with allot of good information that will help allot of beginner djs and that they will have a better understanding of being a dj. 👍👏
Love your vlogs, thank you Luke! 🙌
Love your videos, really motivating.
always waiting for your new videos
GREAT ADVICE AS ALWAYS! THANK YOU.
Your the best🙏🙏
Love the video and totally agree with your number one tip.
Great tips here luke. Loving the vlogs as always.
But gutted to hear the sad news that your glasgow gig in october has been cancelled 🙁. Hope you come back soon
I've watched 7 videos from Laidback Luke in a row. Great content, fun to watch and very informative..
You are a great dj Luke!! Because you are one of the few who varies the genres in the sets ;)
I'M SO EXCITED YOU'RE COMING TO SF
Awesome vid Luke, next vlog could you explain story-telling and give us some advice and tips on it? Thanks man!
Story time! Help me get LL to know how he changed my life at EDC! Your set at edc 2011 was my all time favorite moment at edc. Me and my friend met two random guys at the middle railing and played catch with a glow stick to the drops of your music. Only to find the guy pull off his hat put the glowstick in it and throw it to me. We continued to attempt random moves with it until he pulled out his phone and threw it to me just to type out hi in a text message. The next toss to exchange names. Caught up in the music it took us a few throws to realize that we could just put our numbers in it and not risk throwing his phone anymore lol Experiencing this type of community, in front of a immaculate LED massive stage, with a quality artist as yourself pouring his soul out into the music, will forever encompass what makes edc special to me. Oh and the fact I met my loving girlfriend at edc 2016. We dated long distance for a year and now are living together on our way to being married. My point is thank you for everything you do for the community. I will forever respect all that you have done for the Dj community. Lastly, I want to thank you for throwing one of the best sets I have seen in years Luke. It was on day 2 of edc this year. I literally cried 4 times because of the flashbacks it gave me of how glorious the main stage used to be the first two years in Vegas with its massive LED screens and the quality sets performed on it. Although, I will admit it is pretty cool to see the other stages production grow as the main stage shrinks.
Having started DJing in the 90’s as well, you say 5 things which are so “obvious” to me and so “useless” to today’s DJs, unfortunately. Always a pleasure to see and hear that from somebody who brings the real thing on ;)
these tips are going to be really helpful for me as well as other aspiring DJs.
and i must say nobody will give you these advices for FREE.
Salute to this man
Laidback Luke, India and i Love youuuuu.😊
Hey!!. First, I want to say "I love the work you are putting out on the "Tube". 2nd, the pic you see is my wife not me lol. And now the about me. I am a flrmer dj if I can say that. I started in the mid 80's and was pretty decent. Ingot outbof it due to life situations and the Marine Corps. Now in mybmid life years I found really missingbthat bihe and after no more giving myself excuses not to, I am doing it. How you explaine diffrent techniques and getting back to read crowds, beat matching, you have given me more fire and passion for this. And I want to say "Thank you and keep putting out quality videos". Thank you
Great tips! I'm going to be focusing on my storytelling. Thanks 🙏🏽 LL
Thank you for the great videos!!
can you do a blog elaborating on how you do story telling or how you go about creating a flow of energy?
As primarily a wedding DJ, the story telling is something I really try and focus on, but then it usually comes crashing down when someone is constantly demanding something really random. "Oh, we're at a wedding? Good time to request Trapt's "Headstrong".
However, it can be fun to try and figure out how to work it in, if even for a short bit.
That genre hopping stuff is something I don't really like , so I agree with u Luke. When you perform, take us on a trip , not an iPod playlist of everything I'm gonna hear on my MP3 or phone . This is partially why I worry about seeing certain performances of new artist, I worry they are gonna do buildup drops and just mix everything I've heard before. Imo
You are av very good Teacher, hats off sir.
Love your Vlogs Luke! Especially for young DJs you are some kind of guru 😄✌
Awesome tips Mr Luke! Keep up the good work!
This really opened my knowledge on these topics, thanks!
Story telling is so crucial to ANY set weather your practicing at home or in front of 300 at a club or even at a major festival!!! Thank you for making this a Public Service Announcement to all who watch this. L’s Up 👆🏽👆🏽
Ty I've done some of what u suggested so 😁😁😁
I really appreciate your videos and tips :) They are really helpful and some Techniques you shows us in your "In My Mind"- Videos i already tryed and some of them are sooo easy but i dont hear a lot DJ's using them, even if they are really really cool.
Keep up the Great work. I am really sure we are going to met somewhere in the future! :D
Really enjoying your vlogs, thanks Laidback Luke :)
I am still Amazed that you can inspire me more and more Every vlog
Hey, you should make an "In my mind" video, but with what s in your mind, when you read the crowd! Who agrees?
This is the video i was waiting for. I've never found one on youtube so thank you very mutch @laidbackluke
Storytelling part is true. KSHMR nailed it and look at him now.
Well, he is just playin indian tracks XD
zenek it’s not about what he’s playing, it’s about his show format
@@zenekk1010 i dont think so.
@@zenekk1010 Indian music is totally different from what he plays...KSHMR balanced out the EDM and BDM ,which kinda created his own music style... ✌
Brilliant. Loved this vid! Any chance we could have a video on breaking through in your home city? Thanks :)
Nice vlog, as usual.
I found the last point very interesting, and it would be really great if you could make a video about "telling a story with music".
You're such an awesome guy!! :D
Thank you sir....ur videos rlly do help....
It's always knee to watch your vlog every time
Hey Luke!
Wouldn't it be cool to have a kind of series called *''From bedroom to mainstage''* consisting of (short) videos which teach us the techniques you use in your ''In My Mind'' tutorials? They wouldn't need to be very long, just precise and well categorized.
Cheers,
Audastrian
Hi Laidback ! I went to the electrik park festival, and was waiting so you long to see you, but i havr to admit that i got a bit disappointed.
Not because of your music, but because the crowd wasn’ton point, i’ve heard a lot of people saying that the music you played wasn’t good enough, but i just wanted to tell them that you were the only dj of the festival (maybe with joachim garraud) who really mix live and don’t push the play button.
There was a lot of young people aswell so they weren’t feeling it.
But anyway, thanks for coming to france and i hope to see you again !
You absolutely right!!!