Becoming a salsa DJ...

[genEus]

is something I really want to do... I have a musical background to understand the nitty gritty details of the music structure and to hear the things that drive people crazy on the dance floor, I am already reaching close to 5000 salsa tracks in my collection (I would probably like to throw out about 30% of those though, as a lot of them happen to be really gooey). Only I don't really know where to start.

Does anyone have any experience, first or second hand, of what I need to do, what my investment in equipment should be, how I need to prepare, what I need to learn, etc.? I have read a lot of DJ guidelines and as a dancer I know what I like in a good DJ, like no mixing tracks, having a clear ending to a song, having a variety, etc. etc.

Does anyone have anything to help me out as I begin this quest? :)

[icering]

When it comes to music its usually all about who you know...I do know that. I would hang out with some current DJ and try and get into the mix.

[salsalawyer]

well... convert your collection to mp3s. Get a laptop ( just for music) with a dual channel sound card. Get a copy PCDJ (or use itunes to start) and you are on your way for club work!

Now if you wanna do parties, you will need a sound set up: mixer speakers, amps, but u can rent those for each gig!!

[tangotime]

have been teaching mambo / salsa for nearly 50 yrs and d.j.ing--- music is very subjective in as much if you know not how to dance to the music you are playing-- how can you develop a strong dance connection with your " Floor " Your audience can change from nite to nite-- culturally music tastes differ as in what cubans like as opposed to say colombians --my point is -- it is not a matter of buying stock and equipment-- knowing the culture is vitally important -- trying to please everyone is also impossible-- but understanding the music you are playing -- and making sure you can hit some sort of middleground -- also-- are you talking club work ? or private function-- if the latter -- they may not be as discerning ( unless they are latino !! ) as far as listening to other d.js.-- be careful-- there are as many bad as good ones . Not trying to deter you-- just trying to inform

[MacMoto]

Does anyone have anything to help me out as I begin this quest? :)
Speak to local salsa DJs and teachers you are friendly with that you want to become a salsa DJ. Start by finding opportunities to do short guest slots for them (regular DJs often appreciate someone to stand in while they take a drink/toilet/dance break). You may also find teachers who currently DJ their after-class dance slot who would be happy for someone else to do it instead. Show them that you are willing to learn from them and hopefully they (at least some) will mentor you. Once you have got the hang of salsa DJing, you can start looking into the possibility of doing your own nights and getting the necessary equipment (some venues have all you need so you only need to take your CDs/ipod/laptop with you; others expect you to bring everything -- mixer, amp, speakers, the lot). If you are lucky, you may be able to join an established salsa venue as an addition to its DJ rota. Or you may need to find a new venue start up a new event (for this you need good business negotiation/promotion/marketing skills! And tact... it can be tricky to start a new venue without antagonising other salsa organisers who may see you as a threat).

Good luck with your quest!

[Hart_House]

I suggest becoming a salsa dj using your ipod. That way nobody complains about the music.

[genEus]

I suggest becoming a salsa dj using your ipod. That way nobody complains about the music.

:confused: