The Passionate DJ Podcast

Episode 25: A Wink and a Nod

Getting Things Done Through The Power of Networking! Welcome back for another episode of the podcast! This time around, I recorded a sort of "roundtable discussion"... the last half of a meeting of the minds in my local scene. Tony and Billy of 3DMentional Entertainment return to the show to tell us the experiences they had while booking the legendary Josh Wink this past weekend. There was a problem with their venue, and it looked like the event was doomed. Luckily, due to the power of the local collective, the show was a roaring success. We are also joined by Trip Turlington and Kyle Rutherford (aka Overwaves), who were also taking part in the local "scene meeting". Trip tells us the struggles he used to have with promoting and the differences in the scene "back in the day" vs. now. Kyle gives us some perspective on the state of the local scene in Dayton, OH and tells us how he began to get involved in the past few years. Overall, there are a lot of nuggets of wisdom that I'm sure will be enjoyed by you all!

Episode 24: Halloween 2015: Behind the Scenes of Zombie Hospital

Episode 24 - Happy (Belated) Halloween! Full show notes and comments: http://passionatedj.com/024 Episode 24 is a special, slightly-belated Halloween episode! About this time last year, we were wrapping up The Story Mix Project. This was a 7-week video tutorial series in which I created a story-telling mix, and showed each step along the way. We go over some of the technical details, as well as the conceptualization, all the way through the finalization and "mastering" of the final product. For this year's Halloween episode, we dive even further into this mix. I hope you enjoy this special, behind-the-scenes commentary of Zombie Hospital! In this episode, we discuss: - -The purpose of the project. - The focus of each week during the video series. - My inside thoughts on what the characters of the story might be doing. - Simple takeaways that you can use when creating your own studio mixes. Resources mentioned in this episode include: - The Story Mix Project (Zombie Hospital) http://passionatedj.com/zombie - Zombie Hotel (The prequel to Zombie Hospital) http://dmichael.org/music/zombie-hotel/

Episode 23: DJ? Producer? Remixer? What's the Difference?

Episode 23 - Unproductive Terminology! Hey Folks! We're back for episode 23. This time, we're talking about the differences between the DJ, the producer, and everything in-between. We also talk about why these lines are so often blurred, how the role of one can bleed into another, and why some people even find themselves in the role they didn't intend. I also answer a letter from Roger, a 68-year-old guy who is interested in picking up his headphones and beginning his journey as a DJ for the first time. Kudos to Roger! Hear my thoughts and advice to him a the end of the episode. In episode 23, we discuss: - Some exciting new announcements from Pioneer and Serato. - The definition of a DJ, and their role. - The types of audiences a DJ might play to. - The role of a music producer. - The difference between "music producer" in the modern, electronic musician context and the historical use of the term. - What Remix Artists and Mashup Artists do. - The goal of the Live PA Artist. - How the lines between all these different types of performers blur. - Examples of production vs. DJing software. - My advice for starting to become a DJ later in life! Resources mentioned in this episode include: Twenty DJs over 50 Who Still Top The Bill www.passionatedj.com/twenty-djs-over-50-who-still-top-the-bill/ How to Become a DJ: The Ultimate Guide http://passionatedj.com/HowToDJ Best DJ Controllers: The Ultimate Guide http://passionatedj.com/Controllers Thanks so much, and we'll see you next time on episode 24!

Episode 22: How Snobbery Harms Your DJing

Episode 22 - Elitism or Enthusiasm? This episode of the podcast is all about being a snob, how it affects your DJing, why it is harmful, and even why we can make a positive case for being a snobby DJ. Before I recorded this episode, I sent out a message to my beloved VIP List members asking them what they thought about this topic, so much of today's episode was contributed by you guys. Thanks so much! In episode 22, we talk about: - Why I don't consider myself a guru - How to tell if you're a snob - The difference between a snob and an enthusiast - How being a snob (and having a negative attitude towards music) can affect your DJing No resource list for this episode, so just listen and enjoy!

Episode 21: I Want to Be a DJ... Now What??

Episode 21 - How to Become a DJ! Hi folks! It's time for another edition of the Passionate DJ Podcast. Like our last episode, this one is a sort of "audio version" of an existing article... my most popular post to date, "How to Become a DJ: The Ultimate Guide". If you don’t have time to sit and read, you can listen to this version on-the-go! http://www.passionatedj.com/howtodj In episode 21, I go over the ten steps needed to get started on your journey as a DJ. This one is great for beginners, those who have been out of the game for a while, or just those DJs who like to go back and pick up anything they may have missed along the way. This episode is all about: - Learning what DJs do, and why different types exist. - Helping you find your initial focus. - How to start learning the basic skills (and what they are). - Building your initial brand and following. - Pursuing your first DJ gigs. Resources mentioned in this episode include: - How to Become a DJ: The Ultimate Guide http://passionatedj.com/howtodj - Virtual DJ http://www.virtualdj.com/download/free.html - Mixxx http://www.mixxx.org/download/ - Traktor Pro Demo http://www.native-instruments.com/en/products/traktor/dj-software/traktor-pro-2/demo-version/ - Best Controllers 2015: The Ultimate Guide http://passionatedj.com/controllerguide - Video explaining how phrasing works https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a9TU3NA1DcM - 5 Tips for DJ Happiness http://www.passionatedj.com/5-tips-for-dj-happiness/

Episode 20: How to Pick a New DJ Controller (2015 ed.)

Episode 20 – Helping You Make a Tough Decision! This episode is a sort of audio companion to go along with my recently released mega-article, Best DJ Controllers 2015: The Ultimate Guide. If you don’t have time to sit and read, you can listen to this version on-the-go! http://PassionateDJ.com/controllers In the past few years, the market has really grown for all-in-one DJ controllers. How does one even go about making a decision these days? What features are important? How much do I need to spend? Whether you’re a new DJ, or a seasoned mixmaster simply looking for an upgrade, this episode will help you get the most for your dollar. In episode 20, we discuss: - Tips for buying an appropriate controller for your style and needs - Why your software choice matters - My top 5 picks in 3 different price points, for DJ controllers in 2015 - Modular options for people wanting to add to an existing setup Resources mentioned in this episode include: Best DJ Controllers 2015: The Ultimate Guide http://PassionateDJ.com/controllers

Episode 19: From GOOD DJing to GREAT DJing

Episode 19 - Let's Do Something Great! In this episode of the podcast, not only do I answer a handful of questions submitted by listeners and readers of the blog, but we dive into the topic of going from a good DJ to a GREAT DJ! A little while back, I wrote a post (check the resource list below) titled "The 5 Traits Shared by Great DJs". In this episode, I expand on this and explain how these traits can aid you on your path to becoming a great DJ. In this issue, we talk about: - Where to begin in creating your personal sound - How to become more noticed as a DJ - Advice on getting started creating mixes (for beginners) - Building set lists vs. crowd reading - How empathy, helpfulness, persistence, patience, and adaptability play a role in the great DJ's life - Why the quality of your DJing matters Resources mentioned in this episode include: The 5 Traits Shared by Great DJs (article) http://passionatedj.com/5traits The Deejaypreneur Dojo (courses) http://www.thedeejaypreneur.com/services-programs/ Digital DJ Tips (courses) http://www.digitaldjtips.com/how-to-dj-training-courses/ Amazing Jazzy Jeff clip https://youtu.be/XaxDAhzwV7Q

Episode 18: Collaboration The Smart Way w/Jon Skinner

Episode 18 - Let's Stay Togetherrrrrrr! Welcome back to the Passionate DJ Podcast, where in episode 18, we talk about collaboration with other DJs and producers. I decided to discuss this topic with Jon Skinner, who invented a collaborative tool called Music Gateway. This tool allows you to find the right person to help you finish your track, mix, or project... and gives you a collaborative space to get things done. Very cool stuff! I recently went to the techno festival in Detroit (Movement), which I attend every year... and every time, I come back ready and inspired to knock over skyscrapers with my music. And every time, I find others who feel the same way. Collaboration is very much on my mind right now, so I am excited to present this episode to you! In this episode, Jon and I discuss: - What the club scene was like in places like London and Brighton in the 80s, and the dawn of the rave era through the 90s. - How Jon keeps the DJing magic alive, without getting jaded, and while maintaining a busy lifestyle. - The struggles that Jon discovered DJs have when it comes to online collaboration. - How Music Gateway acts as a “matchmaker” between musicians and those that can help them fill their needs. - How Music Gateway creates a collaborative online space for users to get on the same page on a project. - How to get the most out of the MG platform. Resources mentioned in this episode include: Music Gateway (MusicGateway.net)

Episode 17: Bad Gig Stories!

This one is just for fun! Join me as I share stories of terrible, strange, or hilarious gig experiences submitted by our listeners! One submission tells the story of a laptop crashing right after a big drop during one of the DJ's largest gigs to date. Another tells of the strange (and unsanitary) mystery someone found in the hallway during a house party. And then there's our friend Joe Pardo (a frequent guest on the podcast) who tells us how he had to run for his life after a gig! You'll hear all these stories and more on episode 17. Hopefully it's good for a few laughs! Overall I hope you enjoy this show! If you have a bad gig story to tell, leave me a voicemail (http://www.passionatedj.com/ask) and we can do round 2!

Episode 16: I've Got Passion... What About Purpose?

Episode 16 – Passion Plus Action = a DJ with Purpose! In this episode of the podcast, I bring in a full panel of DJ/activists to discuss the issue of purpose. I say “passion and purpose” all the time, but what does it really mean? How can you find your purpose? How can you drive your goals home so that you can advance your DJ career or skillset? An excellent and inspiring discussion takes place amongst the panel as we all present our own unique perspective on purposeful DJing. Special thanks to Joe Pardo, Casie Lane, and Kilma for joining me on the show today! In this episode, we chat about: - What “purpose” means in a DJing context - How the influence of others affects our progression - How to maintain focus, in spite of “dream stealers” - Gaining a sense of direction - Why it’s important to be a professional - Personal purpose vs. professional purpose - Common traits amongst successful dreamers Resources mentioned in this episode: - The Deejaypreneur (Casie Lane) http://www.thedeejaypreneur.com - The Dreamer’s Podcast (Joe Pardo) http://howtodream.co - Don’t Kilma Vibe (Kilma) http://www.dontkilmavibe.com - The Basement Sessions http://www.ustream.tv/channel/dj-sw-t - The Passion Planner (“the life coach that fits in your backpack”) http://www.passionplanner.com/what/ - Casie’s DJ Jobs Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1441321309449683/ - Casie’s Interactive EPK Webinar http://www.thedeejaypreneur.com/interactive-epk-webinar