The Art and Science Behind a DJ’s Playlist Selection
DJing as we know it, got its start on radio. Hosts of programs would select songs to broadcast over the air waves. Back then, records were the only means of doing so. This was before tapes, CDs, digital downloads, or streaming services. The term disc jockey was coined for this since the host was choosing what disc (vinyl record) to play next. In the modern era of DJing, we are still responsible for choosing what records to play next. But how do we do this?
Understanding the Crowd
The first thing we do is make sure we know the audience we are playing for. When it comes to weddings, the married couple gets to pick the vibe of the whole night. They will often provide the DJ with a list of songs they would love to hear as well as any songs or artists they don’t want played. The DJ can then use this list to help build a sequence of songs that makes sense for the crowd.
Reading the Room
Experienced DJs can “read the crowd” by observing body language, the overall energy in the venue, and how people react when certain songs are played.
Guest Requests
There are a lot of things to consider when it comes to guest requests. Taking requests can make the crowd feel involved and appreciated. However, DJs must carefully evaluate whether a requested song fits the current mood or needs to be saved for later in the set.
The Art of Mixing
Seamless transitions between songs are crucial in maintaining the flow of a set. DJs use various techniques to ensure smooth transitions, such as beatmatching, where they align the beats of two tracks to create a continuous rhythm. This technique helps maintain energy levels on the dance floor.
Mood / BPM / Key
Certain songs work well together. This may be because they have the same mood, key, or tempo. Also, at weddings where there is often a large variety of tastes, the DJ might want to stay in one genre for a while. Perhaps playing three country songs in a row before switching to reggae, and then back to pop will help everyone in the crowd get a chance to hear their favourite type of music.
Preparation
DJs have many crates, or folders, in their music library. These are organized by genre, decade, mood, and occasion. Each folder has been curated to have the best danceable songs in them. This way, we can quickly scan a list of songs and artists and choose the one that will work best for the crowd at the event.
Instinct
Ultimately, a DJ’s instinct plays a significant role in deciding what song to play next. Years of experience, a deep understanding of music, and an innate ability to connect with the audience allow DJs to make intuitive choices that keep the party alive.
In conclusion, the art of choosing the next song is a blend of observation, technical skill, preparation, and instinct. Whether it’s reading the crowd’s energy, utilizing mixing techniques, or leveraging technology, a great DJ knows how to keep the dance floor moving and the spirits high.