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How to Become a DJ at Raves

In order to become a DJ at raves you must have the right skills. DJ skills are not obtained overnight, however with practice and the proper social connections, you will be able to perform. The materials needed for DJing can be expensive, however, turntables and software will enable you to get a fast start without breaking your budget. When DJing at a rave, music genres such as techno, grunge and trance are to be expected, therefore you must purchase or download the right music.

Things You'll Need

  • DJ turntables
  • DJ software
  • Rave music
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Instructions

    • 1
      Use turntables if spinning vinyl records.

      Purchase turntables or DJ music production software. Look for turntables that have qualifications such as direct drive, pitch adjustment as well as a high "torque", which is the power of the turntable drive. Search for turntables that also have a straight tone arm as oppose to a "S" arm, so the needle will move around less. If using DJ software, look for programs that support full MIDI functions and external plug-ins such as VST and DirectX.

    • 2
      Select proper the genre of music.

      Purchase techno, grunge or trance vinyl records, if using turntables. Purchase CD's or download songs if using DJ music production software. Download a VST or DirectX cross-fading plug-in online if your software is not supplied with one.

    • 3
      Practice blending songs.

      Practice and learn to use DJ equipment or software. Learn cross-fading and song blending techniques by experimenting with the two "Fader" knobs located on the top of the turntables or under the "Options" menu in DJ software. Cross-fading is done by fading out one song or sound source while fading in another song or sound source. Cross-fade songs by merging two songs together and using distortion effects on the turntables or in the DJ software.

    • 4
      Contact rave clubs or parties.

      Promote your DJ skills by making promotional tools such as fliers, CDs, business cards and a website. Research rave clubs or parties in your area to find a DJ location and to reserve a DJ gig. Getting started, it's a good idea to offer to DJ free of charge at venues to build a following. If you will be paid for your gigs, discuss legal documents for payment and other royalties, and consider seeking an entertainment lawyer before signing legal documents.

    • 5
      Showcase your techniques.

      Set up DJ equipment at DJ booth or main stage by checking power circuits, plugging in audio connections and having the proper audio adapters and music equipment. Analyze the crowd to determine what records you should play. Play music and use cross-fading and different mixing techniques to entertain the crowd.

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