Summary: David Guetta explains various aspects of DJing, from the technicalities of beat matching and drops to the art of reading a crowd and constructing a set. He discusses the differences between playing in clubs versus festivals, the role of pre-prepared sets, and the evolution of DJing technology. Guetta also shares insights on common DJ practices, such as knob twisting, and clarifies the distinctions between mixing, remixing, and producing. He concludes with advice for aspiring DJs and the importance of entertaining the audience.
The Theory Behind Drops #
- Drops in music are based on contrast.
- To make something sound loud, it needs to be quiet beforehand.
- To make something sound wide and stereo, it needs to be mono beforehand.
- A drop signals upcoming changes, removing key elements like kick drums and bass, creating anticipation.
- When these elements return, the sudden energy increase causes the "drop" effect, thrilling the audience.
- It's like building tension, which is released when the full sound returns.
Preparing and Practicing Sets #
- Historically, DJs wouldn't play the same set; it was about a "journey" and reading the crowd.
- Today, technology makes the technical aspects of DJing, like beat matching, much easier.
- For festivals with multiple top DJs playing short sets (e.g., 1 hour), every moment must be perfect.
- Festival sets are prepared, with Guetta sometimes spending a month perfecting one.
- The preparation involves creating a "skeleton" set.
- During the performance, the DJ adapts by adding tracks from different playlists (e.g., underground, sing-along) based on crowd reaction.
- Pre-recorded sets are "ridiculous" because beat matching is easy to learn.
- Preparation allows for flexibility to respond to the audience.
Why DJs Act Like Knobs Are Hot #
- Some knob-twisting can be a natural "tick."
- Part of it is for the "show."
- With modern club engineering, constant EQ adjustments aren't always technically necessary.
- Some adjustments are creative for mixing.
- Ultimately, a lot of it is for the performance aspect.
Reading the Crowd #
- When a crowd isn't vibing, a DJ tries different types of music until a track gets a reaction.
- Once a track connects, the DJ shifts to that style using relevant playlists.
- This adaptability is why pre-recorded sets are ineffective, as DJs need to "win" the crowd to then lead them.
Festivals vs. Clubs #
- DJ careers often progress from private parties to clubs, then to festivals.
- Club DJs, especially residents, might play very long sets (e.g., 8 hours, 6 days a week).
- Festival sets are typically shorter (e.g., 90 minutes).
- Festival audiences expect a DJ's signature sound and hits, similar to how rock bands play their popular songs.
- Festivals require more energy from the DJ to engage a much larger crowd.
- Underground music originates in clubs; playing it for tens of thousands of people at a festival makes it no longer "underground."
Learning to Beat Match #
- Beat matching is easy with modern technology.
- Basic technique: Turn down the bass of the current playing track.
- Mix in the next track, ensuring the beats align.
- Adjust the new track's tempo if necessary to match the current track.
- A "bad mix" sounds confusing and is noticeable by the audience.
- Advanced technique: Respect musical key.
- Check key compatibility, often with software or music theory knowledge (e.g., C minor with G, a perfect fifth).
- Correct key mixing sounds "pleasant" and indicates a skilled DJ.
What DJs Hear in Headphones #
- DJs use headphones to preview the next track.
- They ensure the next track starts at the right time and matches the beat of the current track.
- It's an "insurance policy" to guarantee a smooth mix.
- Headphones are also used to double-check if a potential next track will fit well.
- One ear listens to the next track in headphones, the other to what the crowd hears from the monitors.
Biggest Mistakes as a DJ #
- Forgetting the audience: Some DJs focus too much on creating a unique identity or looking "cool" for social media rather than entertaining the people in front of them.
- DJs must give a good time and entertain.
- Not looking at the crowd means you can't read their reactions, which is essential for adapting the set.
Dealing with Fatigue for Late Gigs #
- Tiredness comes with the job due to late hours and travel (jet lag).
- There's no perfect solution.
- A "disco nap" (1-hour sleep before the show) can help.
- Avoided being a "zombie" for the show.
- Acknowledges that DJs often have poor sleep patterns.
- Advises against using sleeping pills like Zolpidem due to health concerns.
Mixing, Remixing, and Producing #
- Mixing: Transitioning between two records (usually by other artists) using techniques like beat matching.
- Remixing: Creating a new production around an existing vocal of a well-known song, putting your own style on it.
- Producing: Involves all steps of creating a song:
- Composition: Basic chords and melody.
- Songwriting: The lyrical and melodic structure.
- Production: Choosing sounds, arrangements, and elements that define a song's genre and style. A great song can be produced in various styles (ballad, EDM, reggae).
How to Make a Set #
- Compared to a fashion show, with "seasons."
- A major set (e.g., Ultra festival) is often created in advance (e.g., a month).
- After playing, the DJ observes crowd reactions to see what works and what doesn't.
- The set is continuously refined by adding or removing tracks based on performance feedback.
- Every week, the set improves, though it can eventually become "boring" to the DJ due to perfection.
Essentials for DJs (Jog Wheel) #
- The jog wheel descends from vinyl turntables, where DJs would nudge the record to beat match.
- It's practical for fine-tuning beat matching.
- While other methods exist, the jog wheel remains a useful tool.
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