Play Jopay because people will sing to it
During the DJ’s Opening set
Over the weekend, we received an email from a concerned DJ highlighting a common industry problem. It appears that not only venue owners but also event managers (and even festival organizers) often overstep their boundaries. A successful event is a collaboration—from DJs reading the crowd to bartenders crafting great cocktails. However, when those in charge let their egos take over, the results can be disastrous. An email detailed a recent gig in Poblacion, Makati, illustrating a classic DJ dilemma: venue owners who can’t resist being backseat DJs.
DJs in the Philippines are incredibly talented at reading a crowd and crafting the perfect playlist. But when venue owners or club managers interfere, things can quickly go wrong. Let’s examine why trusting your DJ’s expertise—unless the music is completely off-key—is crucial, even if you’re the owner or manager.
Respect the Craft
Venue owners and managers are vital for a successful event; however, they must respect the DJ’s craft. The DJ creates the musical experience and connects with the audience. Owners and managers should trust the DJ’s skills and let them do their work. Supporting the DJ’s vision fosters a positive musical environment.
Unfortunately, some venue owners and managers let poor behavior overshadow professionalism. For example, a venue owner who’d had too much to drink might yell at staff or dictate playlist changes. This disrupts the DJ and damages the venue’s reputation. Owners, managers, and staff must maintain professionalism to create a positive atmosphere for everyone.
Open Communication and Respectful Boundaries
Open communication and clear boundaries are essential for successful collaboration. Owners, managers, and DJs should discuss expectations, music format, and requirements before the event. This ensures a smoother experience for everyone. Owners and managers must respect the DJ’s creative process and avoid unnecessary interruptions.
DJ Drey shared a negative experience with a bar owner:
“The owner constantly nagged me, to the point where her drink spilled on my DJ controller. Her reasoning? She was pressuring me to play specific songs that partygoers had PAID HER for.”
Venue owners, managers, and DJs should foster mutual respect and teamwork. Owners and managers should support the DJ’s vision, while DJs should adhere to the establishment’s guidelines. Open communication encourages constructive feedback and problem-solving.
Finding a balance between trusting the DJ and maintaining professionalism is key. Owners and managers should create an environment where DJs can thrive, and DJs should be prepared and professional. Open communication, clear boundaries, and prompt handling of unacceptable behavior foster a collaborative atmosphere.
A quick note to DJs: While venue owners should respect your craft, you also need to be prepared. Come ready to rock the crowd, know your audience, and bring the beats. It’s your responsibility to create a great experience. Perfect your playlists, practice transitions, and adapt when needed.
It’s a two-way street. Venue owners should respect your expertise, but you must deliver. Keep hustling, stay passionate, and always strive to create an epic night.
The featured image has been edited. The original photo of DJ Drey is credited to Aksi.
Read also: How to Build a Successful DJ Brand from Scratch?
* generate randomized username
- COMMENT_FIRST
- #1 Lord_Nikon [12]
- #2 Void_Reaper [10]
- #3 Cereal_Killer [10]
- #4 Dark_Pulse [9]
- #5 Void_Strike [8]
- #6 Phantom_Phreak [7]
- #7 Data_Drifter [7]
- #8 Zero_Cool [7]
Comments are closed.