How to DJ for Beginners (2024)

Introduction

This tutorial is designed for complete beginners looking to learn the fundamentals of DJing. We'll cover the essential equipment, techniques for mixing songs, and tips to ensure smooth transitions. By the end, you'll have a solid understanding of how to start your DJing journey.

Chapter 1: DJing and Gear Breakdown

• Understanding DJing: The primary role of a DJ is to play and mix music to entertain a crowd. Mixing involves transitioning between songs, which requires specific tools.
• Essential Equipment:
  • DJ Decks: These are used to play the music.
  • Mixer: This combines the audio from the decks.
  • DJ Controllers: For beginners, these are more affordable options (around $299) that connect to DJ software on your computer.
• DJ Software: This software automates many functions, allowing you to control your music physically with the controller.

Chapter 2: Navigation and Song Overview

1. Setting Up:

   • Plug in your DJ controller and open your DJ software.
   • Connect your speakers to the master volume outputs and your headphones to the dedicated input.

2. Understanding BPM:

   • Familiarize yourself with BPM (beats per minute), as it is crucial for mixing. Start with songs that have a BPM between 124 and 127 for easier transitions.
   • Download the free songs used in the tutorial for practice.

Chapter 3: Deck Section Guide

1. Loading Songs:

   • Identify Deck 1 (left) and Deck 2 (right) in your software.
   • Use the Browser knob to find and load your first song into Deck 1 and your second song into Deck 2.

2. Beat Grid:

   • After loading, the software analyzes your tracks and displays a Beat Grid, helping you visualize the beats.

Chapter 4: Mixer Section Guide

1. Understanding Mixer Functions:

   • Play/Pause: Toggles playback of the track.
   • Cue: Prepares the track for mixing.
   • Tempo: Adjusts the BPM.
   • Jog Wheels: Temporarily speed up or slow down the track for beat matching.

2. Mixer Controls:

   • Volume Faders: Control the volume of each Deck.
   • Crossfader: Blends audio between Decks.
   • EQ Knobs: Adjust the frequency levels (Low, Mid, High) of the tracks. Keep these at the 12 o'clock position for simplicity.

Chapter 5: First Transition Lesson

1. Preparation:

   • Set Crossfader to the left (Deck 1), ensure Volume faders are up, and EQ knobs are at 12 o’clock.

2. Transition Steps:

   • Step 1: Play the first song and wait for its Outro section.
   • Step 2: Load the second song in Deck 2 and adjust its BPM to match the first song.
   • Step 3: At the Outro of the first song, play the second song and align the Beat Grids using Jog Wheels.
   • Step 4: Slowly move the Crossfader from left to right to complete the transition.

3. Repeat: Continue mixing by repeating these steps for subsequent songs.

Chapter 6: Beat Grid Guide and Settings

1. Adjusting Beat Grids:

   • If songs don't mix well, adjust the Beat Grid:
     • In Rekordbox DJ: Click to align the Beat Grid.
     • In Serato DJ: Click "Edit Grid," then "Clear," position the song correctly, and save.

2. Crossfader and EQ Settings:

   • For smoother transitions, adjust the Crossfader Curve and EQ settings to isolate frequencies.

Conclusion

You've now learned the basics of DJing, from understanding your equipment to executing your first mix. Keep practicing with different songs and techniques, and as you gain confidence, explore more advanced mixing styles. Your journey into the world of DJing is just beginning—continue to learn and experiment!