Don’t Sound Like Every Other DJ: 5 Ways to Build a Signature Style

Ivan here. I’ve been a DJ since 2016, in and out of the scene, since I have a day job, but it took me a while to truly find my sound. That would be techno. When I started DJing, I landed with open-format gigs, to even some notorious events such as Bass N’ Bacon playing dubstep. Fast forward to now, my journey through different genres and scenes has taught me that developing a unique sonic identity is a process of discovery, not a destination. It requires dedication, an open mind, and a clear strategy.

For many DJs, the path is rarely linear. It’s about more than just picking a genre; it’s about curating a specific mood and energy that becomes your signature. Here are five practical methods to help you find your distinct sound.

Deep Dive Beyond the Top Charts

The most common starting point for new DJs is often the top charts on platforms like Beatport. While these are useful for understanding current trends, relying on them solely is a surefire way to sound like everyone else. To truly find your sound, you must dig deeper. In my own journey, I spent countless hours on SoundCloud and Hypeedit. This practice of digital crate digging not only helped me find unique edits and undiscovered gems but, more importantly, it led me to be more open-minded, exposing me to sub-genres of techno I never would have found on the main charts. Exploring the discography of a label like Detroit’s Underground Resistance can provide a historical context that you won’t find in a top 10 list.

Analyze the DJs You Admire

Instead of just enjoying the music, start analyzing the sets of DJs who inspire you. What makes their track selection compelling? I used to religiously watch sets from Adam Beyer. I noticed his ability to maintain immense pressure while introducing subtle melodic elements. I started breaking down how he would use a specific track with a distinctive hi-hat pattern to bridge two heavier, bass-focused tracks. This analytical listening, documented in countless recordings of his festival performances, taught me the mechanics of set narration far more than just listening casually ever could.

Embrace the Power of Your Library

Your music library is your primary instrument. Early on, my Rekordbox library was a mess of generic folders. I took a weekend to overhaul it, implementing a personal tagging system. I rated tracks by energy (‘Low,’ ‘Mid,’ ‘High’), added emotional cues (‘Dark,’ ‘Uplifting’), and noted key instrumental features (‘Acid,’ ‘Vocal Chop’). This completely changed my approach. Suddenly, during a set, I could search for a ‘High’ energy, ‘Dark’ track with an ‘Acid’ feature and instantly find the perfect record to continue the story I was building on the dance floor.

Record and Critique Your Mixes

Hearing your mix from a listener’s perspective is fundamentally different from hearing it in your headphones. I make it a point to record every session. I once listened back to a mix I thought was flawless, only to realize I had a minor tempo clash for over a minute that I completely missed in the moment. It was a humbling but invaluable lesson. This process of self-assessment is crucial, a principle detailed in works like “Last Night a DJ Saved My Life” by Bill Brewster and Frank Broughton. It helps you catch mistakes and, equally, identify moments of unexpected magic that you can replicate later.

Field-Test Your Sound and Read the Room

Ultimately, DJing is a conversation with the dance floor. At that Bass N’ Bacon gig I mentioned, I was booked to play heavy dubstep. I tried to slip in a more rhythm-focused, breakbeat-style track I loved, thinking it would work. The energy on the floor dipped immediately. It was a tough pill to swallow, but it was direct feedback. The track wasn’t bad, but the context was wrong. This taught me the critical skill of balancing my personal taste with the expectations of the crowd, a feedback loop that is essential for refining your sound and making it connect.

FAQs

How long does it take to find your DJ sound?

There is no set timeline. For some, it can take a few months; for others, it can be a multi-year process of evolution. It depends on how much time you dedicate to listening, practicing, and performing. The key is to see it as an ongoing journey of refinement.

Do I need to stick to one genre?

Not necessarily. Many successful DJs are known for blending multiple genres. Your “sound” can be a specific style of mixing or a particular mood you create, rather than being strictly defined by one genre. Artists like Floating Points are celebrated for their eclectic sets that span jazz, soul, and electronic music.

How important is having exclusive tracks?

While having unreleased or rare tracks can make your sets stand out, it is not the most critical element. A well-crafted set using widely available music will always be more effective than a poorly mixed set of exclusives. The foundation of your sound lies in your selection, programming, and mixing skills.