How (Not) to Piss off the Other DJ

DJing is not exactly a team sport but if you’re booked to play in a club or bar, you most probably won’t be the only DJ playing. So it’s important to play nice. Here are a few tips on how to avoid pissing off the other DJ and making them mad at you.

Start setting up after their final track is on. You don’t want to distract the other DJ with setting up your gear while they are playing. Leave it to their final track.

Let their last track play. It’s extremely rude to cut the previous DJ’s final track in the middle and not let it play at least close to its end. You show your respect by letting it play, and the other guy will appreciate that.

Don’t overshadow the DJ you’re opening for. If you’re warming up for another DJ, don’t play all the big tunes they are expected to play, especially if those are their tunes. Similarly, don’t turn the volume all the way up – leave them some space, too.

Respect the time slots. Don’t overrun even if the DJ before you did. And don’t whine to play “just two more tracks” if you’re out of time, even if the dancefloor is screaming for more.

Give them plenty of time to set up and mix out. Put on your final track and step aside. Let the incoming DJ set up comfortably and still have enough time to mix out of your tune.

Don’t touch, tell them. If you’re a resident DJ, you may know the peculiarities of the sound system better than the guest DJ playing. Avoid the temptation to tweak a few knobs for them. Rather, just tell and let them decide for themselves.

Respect the other DJ’s private space. Don’t turn the booth into your storage room after you’re done playing. Similarly, don’t turn it into a private dancefloor/party space while the other DJ is on. Get your friends and stuff out.

Bottom line: Respect the fellow DJ and it will pay off!

Got a hilarious story of accidentally pissing off (or being pissed off by) another DJ? Leave a comment below!