Good DJs vs Great DJs, What’s the Difference?

The difference between a good DJ and a great DJ is not just about playing the right songs. It’s about creating an unforgettable experience for the audience by surprising, engaging, and innovating.

When it comes to the world of DJing, there’s a saying that encapsulates the art and science of this craft: “Good DJs play music you want to hear, Great DJs play music you didn’t know you wanted to hear.” This simple yet profound statement reveals the essence of what sets exceptional DJs apart from the rest.

What makes a great DJ? The answer is simple yet profound: great DJs play music you didn’t know you wanted to hear.

Good DJs are like musical chefs, serving up the hits and tracks that the audience craves. They create an atmosphere of musical comfort where attendees feel at ease.

Great DJs, on the other hand, aspire to transcend expectations. They surprise, inspire, and captivate their audience by introducing them to new sounds and genres, taking risks, and seamlessly weaving different musical elements together.

Great DJs are also spontaneous and creative. They aren’t afraid to deviate from their setlist in response to the crowd’s energy and feedback. They are constantly tuned into the room, adjusting their selections on the fly and embracing unexpected opportunities.

At the core of both good and great DJing is the ability to connect with the crowd. A good DJ ensures that people have a good time; a great DJ creates an emotional bond with the audience. They can sense the mood in the room and adapt their music to match it, elevating the collective experience.

The difference between a good DJ and a great DJ is not just about playing the right songs. It’s about creating an unforgettable experience for the audience by surprising, engaging, and innovating. At the core of both good and great DJing is the ability to connect with the crowd. A good DJ ensures that people have a good time; a great DJ creates an emotional bond with the audience. They can sense the mood in the room, adapt their music to match it, and elevate the collective experience.

Here is a simplified version of the above:

Good DJs:

• Play the music you want to hear.
• Keep the energy flowing and the dancefloor packed.
• Create an atmosphere of musical comfort.

Great DJs:

• Play music you didn’t know you wanted to hear.
• Introduce you to new sounds and genres.
• Take you on a sonic journey.
• Are spontaneous, creative, and crowd-connected.

The saying, “Good DJs play music you want to hear, Great DJs play music you didn’t know you wanted to hear,” highlights the dual nature of DJing. It emphasizes that while playing crowd-pleasers is essential, the true artistry lies in the ability to surprise, engage, and innovate. Whether you’re a DJ or a music enthusiast, understanding this concept can deepen your appreciation of the craft and help you discern the good from the great in the world of DJing.