There's a lot to consider when looking for a DJ these days. DJing is one of those professions that attract a wide variety of people. Let's face it, there are a ton of people that "think" they can be a DJ. I meet them every week.



They are usually just a person that is a fan of a certain type of music or again, they "think" that they know what good music is. The fact is that there is a lot of good music but not all of it is going to fill the dance floor. And, not everything that sounds good in your car is going to please a large group of people. You might think that Tom Sawyer by Rush is the coolest thing you've ever heard but, c'mon, you're asking for that to be played at a wedding or a business event. I don't think so.



That's where a true professional DJ starts. They need to be able to read the crowd and interpret what is right for that particular moment. Over the years, I've met DJs that only play techno or only play hip-hop. Unfortunately, they are limiting themselves on the events that they can perform at. For some DJs that's ok and they only want to work the parties they they can enjoy. I would venture to say that they are not in it to have a successful business but moreso to enjoy DJing for themselves, and that's great for them. Not for you but, for them.



A good DJ will be flexible and will want to play the kind of music that you and your guests will enjoy. It's not about the kind of music I like. It's about the kind of music that is going to make the group go crazy and party like rock stars! That music changes from night to night. On one night a group of people will go crazy for Top 40 and hip-hop. The next night the very same group of people might not be in the mood for the same stuff but they'd love to hear a blast from the past and rock the 80's. You want a DJ can feel the difference and do what works. If they're not willing to do that then they are not willing to make every effort to insure that your event is the best that it can possibly be. Don't take a chance with a rigid DJ.



Contact is also important. Just as in any business, the DJ should be responsive via phone or email. Today is the day of the Blackberry and Treo. We can access the internet at Starbucks and McDonald's. People should be responsive and answer simple questions easily.



DJs should be able to provide references. If you can't talk to a past client then I have to wonder what they are hiding. DJs should be proud to offer references from past clients AND clients should be proud to recommend a DJ or there is usually something wrong. Googling a DJ or looking them up online should also provide some feedback. If a DJs been around for a respectable time period then you can usually find a few comments about them online. That's a great way to hear what people are really saying about the DJ and their work ethic.



I'll be talking more about finding a great DJ or entertainer in future posts. Let me know your thoughts and experiences when it comes to DJs or entertainers that you've worked with. I'd love to hear the good or bad.



Also, feel free to email me if you have questions about your next event. I'm always happy to offer suggestions.



Hoping your next event is a blast,

Tim Coy