How Can We Nurture the Next Generation of DJs in the Philippines Without Elitism?

The Challenge of Elitism in the Philippine DJ Scene

The DJ community, while a fun and exciting industry that fosters creativity and collaboration, faces a significant hurdle: elitism. This issue stifles growth and creates an unwelcoming environment for aspiring DJs in the Philippines. Established DJs sometimes belittle emerging talent, creating a barrier to entry for many.

Read also: 61% of New DJs Believe “Social Media Numbers Matter More Than Musical Skill.”

The Impact of Elitism

• Limited opportunities for aspiring DJs.
• Negative feedback and discouragement from established DJs.
• A captive market controlled by a select few, limiting growth.

Many events repeatedly book the same DJs, especially those with large social media followings or strong connections within the industry. This makes it difficult for newer DJs to gain experience and build their reputation.

Unethical Practices and Their Link to Elitism

Some aspiring DJs feel pressured to engage in less-than-ethical practices, such as currying favor with club owners or promoters to secure gigs. While this isn’t directly elitism, it’s a consequence of the power imbalance created by an elitist system. Building genuine, respectful relationships is crucial to fostering a healthier environment.

Other Forms of Elitism

• Discriminatory practices based on perceived social status, club reputation, or equipment quality.
• The belief that DJing is an exclusive profession requiring innate talent and connections.

This perception, often fueled by the success of well-connected DJs from affluent backgrounds, can discourage those from less privileged circumstances.

Overcoming Elitism: A Call for Collaboration

To cultivate the next generation of DJs, we need a collaborative effort to create an inclusive environment. We must actively combat gatekeeping and the ‘crab mentality’ where successful DJs try to pull down others. This means providing opportunities for new DJs to showcase their skills and build their careers.

Aspiring DJ Perspective

An aspiring DJ, Drey Cua (https://www.facebook.com/BreidenDrey), shared his experience of facing negativity from established DJs who felt overshadowed by his style. This highlights the crucial need for mentorship and mutual respect.

May mga DJs na naging basher ko. Talking behind my back dahil sa pagiging energetic ko sa set. I dont like doing boring set and napag tanto ko din sa sarili ko na sakin mag sisimula ang mood ng crowd kaya mapa opening or prime ang set ko tlagang energetic ako. Isa yon sa main reason why nagiging mas in demand ako sa masa. Nagiging sunod sunod yung set ko at nakaka tanggap ako ng gigs 4 times a week pero madaming DJs specially yung mga nauna dito na ayaw ng ganun kasi tingin nila nasasapawan sila but for me hindi kasi kapag sila yung nag sset I still clap my hands admire them and idolize them kasi alam kong may matututunan padin ako sa kanila but I didn’t get the same energy puro negative feedback yung nasasalo ko.

Drey Cua (https://www.facebook.com/BreidenDrey)

Practical Steps to Foster Inclusivity

• Offer support and encouragement to new DJs.
• Share knowledge and experience freely.
• Create opportunities for new DJs, such as mentorship and events.
• Advocate for diversity and inclusion.

By promoting a culture of support and mutual respect, we can collectively strengthen the Philippine DJ community and ensure its continued growth and success.

This is an upcoming event that embodies diversity: Bass N’ Bacon.

Further Reading

Here are some additional resources to deepen your understanding of the issues discussed in this article:

• “Elites, communities and the limited benefits of mentorship in electronic music”
• “DJ Red Flags To Avoid!”
• “CDJ Elitism is Wrong”
• Insightful thread on Reddit: “Many DJs have bigger egos than they should”
• “Stop being insecure and a gatekeeper.”

Check out DJ Joey Santos on TikTok for more tips: https://www.tiktok.com/@djjoeysantos/video/7204109585077013786