Getting yourself booked...a serious discussion.

[Jamie 3:26]

What is the proper way for someone to approach a promoter to get booked?

What is the wrong way?

How do you pull it off for yourself?

I am asking these questions for discussion becase I have had my own run of situations,due to being a resident dj in places.

I have had folks get pissed off at me,because I told them I don't do the booking for the event.

I have had folks think I was on bullshit,because I didn't have a revolving door at the spot I was playing at,in regards to guest dj's.

Hell,sometimes one bad dj can ruin a whole lotta work you have put in for your event.

I remember some years ago,I would come to folks all wrong.

I was under the impression that their shit was weak,if I wasn't there.

The music sucked,because I played better music.

I had this pompass ass attitude that I was the shit and your party wasn't shit if I wasn't there.

I had to learn this one the hard way. Man,I have learned a lot over the years.

I also learned that being professional and courteous goes a long way.

You can't sweat the fuck outta the promoter and then get mad when they don't book you.Timing is everything...and knowing how to approach someone is very important.

I used to go to parties just to try to get on.I never used to just hang out at certain spots,get cool with folks,THEN present myself to them.

I did the exact opposite...and then would be pissed the fuck off when I didn't get any calls or they would play me off.

I just had to step back,regroup,and come at it differently.

Hell,I'm still learning,but it's less frustrating.

Now that I have grown as a person and an adult.

What's your take???Discuss...

[jojaujae3]

Very interesting topic brother. Let me ponder that

[däp]

people will get at you if they dig you, period. it depends on the promoter. i'm more the networking type and like to have a rapport.

[Chris Burns]

Meeting a promoter/organizer at a party and buying them a drink for the simple reason of being friendly is the absolute perfect way to develop rapport and sometimes almost instant booking.

I guess maintaining the mindset in the back of your head when you finally do approach them, "what can I offer them that is equal or better than what they can offer myself" is also key.

Getting angry and hating on other deep house parties/djs is one way that youll stay cemented home on any given weekend night with just yourself and your "heat"

[S&S]

I always say...........do you own shit then you dont have to hear shit.........if the promoters that you want to work for can see that you can pack the house on youre own then they may begin to call on you. However if youre drawing 500ppl at ur parties and they are consistaltly drawing 75-100ppl then you may want to re-evaluate things.....but my opinion sucks anyway

[silverbull]

i think one of the biggest things involved in this industry is TIMING.

[tony winter]

I think you need a crowd / following period... A lot of cats can mix, and better than a lot of big names, but it's definetely a business.If not books me.:)

[dirtie blonde]

If you want to play at a party, help them spread the word about the party first and show your support. Go to their parties, dance, have fun, bring people with you. Usually then, you don't even have to ask them to play, they'll offer it to you, especially if they see your efforts are paying off and bringing people through the door.

I've gotten many gigs this way. Never made a demo. I might make a mix for a friend's blog one of these days, but i would never call it a demo.

Sometimes people give me a hard time about the demo thing, but I throw my own parties too, so when they want to hear me, they can come to my party.

Throwing your own parties doesn't hurt.

[Duron Tarik]

A DJ who is a draw will get called from the promoter. Won't be any need for the dj to make a call. Friendship is a good way to get in, but i for one make kats that are not draws wait a long time just to weed out who a real friend & who is in it just to play one time for the hype. I love nothing more than for a dj to come to the spot a few weeks back to back & think that should get him or her put on, I get a kick, when the dj start showing his or her tru colors after he don,t get booked.

Dj's should give promoter 's a reason to book them if they are not a draw,by showing them they are willing to work with them to make a happnin ass party.

[Walter Stallworth]

I think alot of it is timing as well. But you have to also be able to play too. About 7 years ago I went out all the time thinking if people saw me out I'd get booked. But now I don't go out unless I really want to. Also now that I'm older I'm not just taking any gig, or sweating someone to death to get put on. To me if you sweat someone to death you lower yourself. It might be the wrong approach but I'm going to build my discography and see how that works.

[SMOOTH87]

If you want to play you have to atleat let the promoter know you want to play. I am going to put on folk I feel are interested. Weather you bring people out will determine if the dj comes back. It's just bussiness.

As a dj you do have to pick and choose where you play. Weather a dj does it for free or if you are getting paid make sure equipment is decent. It is nothing worse than doing a guest spot and the equipment fails or a cd player doesn't work mid way through a set.. :scared:

[Walter Stallworth]

If you want to play you have to atleat let the promoter know you want to play. I am going to put on folk I feel are interested. Weather you bring people out will determine if the dj comes back. It's just bussiness.

As a dj you do have to pick and choose where you play. Weather a dj does it for free or if you are getting paid make sure equipment is decent. It is nothing worse than doing a guest spot and the equipment fails or a cd player doesn't work mid way through a set.. :scared:
You know you opened yourself for the thread to get hijacked into a vinyl vs cd thread now.

[Disco2go]

A lot of times I get booked through people who know me from hearing me play, or at the recommendation of other Jocks ( and I'm always grateful for that).

Sometimes ( if I know the promoter ), I might just tell him to look me up if he ever needs a guest jock. Not making any demands, but just to let him know I'm around. But i DO make it a point to check out the party and bring a few friends out to support.

But I never really sweat anybody to play. If you're good enough, they'll come to you.

The most important thing is, to be honest and not try to get over on people. Don't go to parties JUST to hustle the promoters, go in good faith. Buy a drink and have a good time. If you support other cats, they'll look out for YOU.

When people DO book you, show up on time and do what they paid you to do. Don't act an ass and try to be a superstar. Stay in your lane. If you're opening for other jocks, don't try to blow the doors off the club and upstage the other DJ's. and don't try to get everybody you know in for free. If you have a list, respect the list you submitted. At the end of the night, collect the fee you agreed on. Even if you rocked the joint, people won't forget if you acted like a jackass, and they probably won't have you back. Or worse, they might spread the word that you're not worth hiring...

[DaveR]

What is the proper way for someone ... ... to get booked?
...
Demonstrate that you can add Value

[Chris Wood]

Meeting a promoter/organizer at a party and buying them a drink for the simple reason of being friendly is the absolute perfect way to develop rapport and sometimes almost instant booking.

I guess maintaining the mindset in the back of your head when you finally do approach them, "what can I offer them that is equal or better than what they can offer myself" is also key.

Getting angry and hating on other deep house parties/djs is one way that youll stay cemented home on any given weekend night with just yourself and your "heat"

exactly what i've arranged to do this sat... meeting him at his own club night, hes kindly put me on the g/list so will go down and talk to him just like anyone else would

[DaveR]

... Getting angry and hating on other deep house parties/djs is one way that youll stay cemented home on any given weekend night with just yourself and your "heat"
:rofl:

[Dj Pat]

I stop doing this year's ago.
To many People in the Mix and everyone can't blend.
In House Music, it's hard as hell trying to stay in the limelite getting booking's every weekend.
What's sad about it is that we as Dj's are our own worse enemy's.
We under-cutt the other Dj for a lower asking price and do a piss poor ass job.
I had to understand other's agenda's just to understand the reason's why bullshit is all up in the mix.
House Music is love for me, like a sensation that i can't let go...a drug.
But on the up, I had to learn how to become a Dj ...PERIOD!
For the past 10 year's doing Private and Corporate event's, my name is out there and i'm very proud of that success.
My booking's are tight, made more money and build a better business sense by looking outside the door instead of trying to be the first in.

*phm*

[JMJ]

Demonstrate that you can add Value

Bingo.

"So what and who are you bringing to the party?"

I've asked this question many times. The DJ's that can answer that without hesitation are usually the guys that can back it up as well.......JMJ

[Sal Paradise]

If a Dj has so much value to bring why would he/she ever need you and your party any way? It's a little of a catch 22 no?

[DaveR]

If a Dj has so much value to bring why would he/she ever need you and your party any way? It's a little of a catch 22 no?
no

[JMJ]

If a Dj has so much value to bring why would he/she ever need you and your party any way? It's a little of a catch 22 no?

A DJ with value WANTS to play your event.

A DJ with little or no value NEEDS to play your event.......JMJ

[Sal Paradise]

A DJ with value WANTS to play your event.

A DJ with little or no value NEEDS to play your event.......JMJ

I get the need, but I don't quite get the want. If some one is bringin you all your numbers why do they want to play for you?

[JMJ]

I get the need, but I don't quite get the want. If some one is bringin you all your numbers why do they want to play for you?

I disagree with the ALL part.

A good promoter is going to get the numbers - the DJ (that has value) adds to those numbers and maybe plays a party they haven't played before.

It's a win/win.......JMJ

[DaveR]

I get the need, but I don't quite get the want. If some one is bringin you all your numbers why do they want to play for you?
Value is not just numbers and $$$ ... although value does translate into those things, with real people

I'll put a DJ on (and I will get put on) for many reasons:

- he/she shows up at an event >50% of the time, sans "trying" to come out
- he/she shows "genuine" interest (e.g. doesn't ignore your promotions online, so as not to look like a ballwasher (with ones 'peeps' or 'crew')), then hits you up via PM asking for a slot <--- that's just for this board :rofl:
- he/she hangs out and about, more than me, and is in touch with "people" not just dancers
- he/she yaps with people at the event to enhance the vibe and overall friendliness-factor
- he/she speaks well of the event outwardly (that's a big one b/c many people show up all the time, and then talk shit all the time to others -- of course you always find that out quickly -- LOL)
- he/she is just generally good for the event ... might not be able to mix to save his/her life

... before I put any heat & fiyah bringin', box-bangin', subversive shit talking fool, on at one of my events ... ANYONE can DJ these days- not many people bring real value

[Sal Paradise]

Value is not just numbers and $$$ ... although value does translate into those things, with real people

I'll put a DJ on (and I will get put on) for many reasons:

- he/she shows up at an event >50% of the time, sans "trying" to come out
- he/she shows "genuine" interest (e.g. doesn't ignore your promotions online, so as not to look like a ballwasher (with ones 'peeps' or 'crew')), then hits you up via PM asking for a slot <--- that's just for this board :rofl:
- he/she hangs out and about, more than me, and is in touch with "people" not just dancers
- he/she yaps with people at the event to enhance the vibe and overall friendliness-factor
- he/she speaks well of the event outwardly (that's a big one b/c many people show up all the time, and then talk shit all the time to others -- of course you always find that out quickly -- LOL)
- he/she is just generally good for the event ... might not be able to mix to save his/her life

... before I put any heat & fiyah bringin', box-bangin', subversive shit talking fool, on at one of my events ... ANYONE can DJ these days- not many people bring real value

thanks for the clarification. Agree with all of the above.

[Chris Conrad]

Value is not just numbers and $$$ ... although value does translate into those things, with real people

I'll put a DJ on (and I will get put on) for many reasons:

- he/she shows up at an event >50% of the time, sans "trying" to come out
- he/she shows "genuine" interest (e.g. doesn't ignore your promotions online, so as not to look like a ballwasher (with ones 'peeps' or 'crew')), then hits you up via PM asking for a slot <--- that's just for this board :rofl:
- he/she hangs out and about, more than me, and is in touch with "people" not just dancers
- he/she yaps with people at the event to enhance the vibe and overall friendliness-factor
- he/she speaks well of the event outwardly (that's a big one b/c many people show up all the time, and then talk shit all the time to others -- of course you always find that out quickly -- LOL)
- he/she is just generally good for the event ... might not be able to mix to save his/her life

... before I put any heat & fiyah bringin', box-bangin', subversive shit talking fool, on at one of my events ... ANYONE can DJ these days- not many people bring real value

:thumbsup:

[hippy74]

Anyone want to network ;)

[S&S]

I like that one cat who "PAYS" the promoter with a side deal to get put on. Dont front, all of you know one or two guys who have done that in the past

[Walter Stallworth]

I like that one cat who "PAYS" the promoter with a side deal to get put on. Dont front, all of you know one or two guys who have done that in the past
Damn, now that's desperate.

[jojaujae3]

Persistance! But not overdoing it!
What can you, as the DJ, bring to my party, as the promoter. :acclaim:

[Jay Rags]

I like that one cat who "PAYS" the promoter with a side deal to get put on. Dont front, all of you know one or two guys who have done that in the past

this is definately a fact and happens sometimes. sometimes it's the owner of the place making a deal too.

[Jamie 3:26]

Value is not just numbers and $$$ ... although value does translate into those things, with real people

I'll put a DJ on (and I will get put on) for many reasons:

- he/she shows up at an event >50% of the time, sans "trying" to come out
- he/she shows "genuine" interest (e.g. doesn't ignore your promotions online, so as not to look like a ballwasher (with ones 'peeps' or 'crew')), then hits you up via PM asking for a slot <--- that's just for this board :rofl:
- he/she hangs out and about, more than me, and is in touch with "people" not just dancers
- he/she yaps with people at the event to enhance the vibe and overall friendliness-factor
- he/she speaks well of the event outwardly (that's a big one b/c many people show up all the time, and then talk shit all the time to others -- of course you always find that out quickly -- LOL)
- he/she is just generally good for the event ... might not be able to mix to save his/her life

... before I put any heat & fiyah bringin', box-bangin', subversive shit talking fool, on at one of my events ... ANYONE can DJ these days- not many people bring real value

Speak on it!!! :respent:

[DUBFLY]

this is definately a fact and happens sometimes. sometimes it's the owner of the place making a deal too.


I’ve never realized that Kats would get to that point jus to play a few record :conf44:

[DUBFLY]

Value is not just numbers and $$$ ... although value does translate into those things, with real people

I'll put a DJ on (and I will get put on) for many reasons:

- he/she shows up at an event >50% of the time, sans "trying" to come out
- he/she shows "genuine" interest (e.g. doesn't ignore your promotions online, so as not to look like a ballwasher (with ones 'peeps' or 'crew')), then hits you up via PM asking for a slot <--- that's just for this board :rofl:
- he/she hangs out and about, more than me, and is in touch with "people" not just dancers
- he/she yaps with people at the event to enhance the vibe and overall friendliness-factor
- he/she speaks well of the event outwardly (that's a big one b/c many people show up all the time, and then talk shit all the time to others -- of course you always find that out quickly -- LOL)
- he/she is just generally good for the event ... might not be able to mix to save his/her life

... before I put any heat & fiyah bringin', box-bangin', subversive shit talking fool, on at one of my events ... ANYONE can DJ these days- not many people bring real value



The real deal as usual Dave !!!!!!
:thumbsup:

[Jay Rags]

I’ve never realized that Kats would get to that point jus to play a few record :conf44:


I can see someone using this as a spring board for their name though. Let's say there's a massive New Year's Eve party in Las Vegas, or some other place where a large event will be taking place. A dj will pay a promoter/club owner to put them on a some point. If there will be thousands of people at this party and your name has been included in the promotions for months, your name will be advertised to a lot of people and something will definately come out of it beyond that party.

I don't see myself paying anybody to get on but I can see accepting this type of gig if I'm trying to get my name more recognition.

[DaveR]

I like that one cat who "PAYS" the promoter with a side deal to get put on. Dont front, all of you know one or two guys who have done that in the past
I'm kinda neutral on this one

- paying a promoter; might set a bad precedent, unless it's some huge event for exposure

on the other hand

- how many people have paid their own way (airfare, hotel expenses, and other travel expenses) for a gig somewhere? ... likely many

Not too much difference in my mind in those two ... you are either paying the promoter, or you pay American Airlines ... :wink:

[S&S]

good point Dave R

[The Buddy Love Show]

Value is not just numbers and $$$ ... although value does translate into those things, with real people

I'll put a DJ on (and I will get put on) for many reasons:

- he/she shows up at an event >50% of the time, sans "trying" to come out
- he/she shows "genuine" interest (e.g. doesn't ignore your promotions online, so as not to look like a ballwasher (with ones 'peeps' or 'crew')), then hits you up via PM asking for a slot <--- that's just for this board :rofl:
- he/she hangs out and about, more than me, and is in touch with "people" not just dancers
- he/she yaps with people at the event to enhance the vibe and overall friendliness-factor
- he/she speaks well of the event outwardly (that's a big one b/c many people show up all the time, and then talk shit all the time to others -- of course you always find that out quickly -- LOL)
- he/she is just generally good for the event ... might not be able to mix to save his/her life

... before I put any heat & fiyah bringin', box-bangin', subversive shit talking fool, on at one of my events ... ANYONE can DJ these days- not many people bring real value

so, internet DJ Angie Leftoe who is pure fiyaaaaaaa dont get put on?

[Nege]

people will get at you if they dig you, period. it depends on the promoter. i'm more the networking type and like to have a rapport.

also having third party sell you is more effective, or referals from a third party
when you sell yourself its not always believable....for most it does not sound objective when you big up yourself....

[Cordell]

I know some cats out there that suck(as a dj) but they market themselves very well and get people to believe in the hype. Can't be mad at that.

[Nege]

exactly it all about the hype....people have to be intrested or hyped on you
theres also management agencies...but thats like looking for a job...you have to show them your credencials.

and the agencies have to have some intrest in you as well so they can sell you,
they usually wnat someone who will in some sort of demand on their roster.......

[V-ROD]

So how does this apply to a DJ who doesn't have a following but trying to get a gig?

[DaveR]

So how does this apply to a DJ who doesn't have a following but trying to get a gig?
same way it applies to someone that wants a job ... what you bringing to the table?

- experience
- education / training
- unique skill
- your network
- anything the person that you want to perform for, might not have
- drive, determination (absent of all of the above)

there is no right approach, but there are plenty of wrong ones

[CalvinInTheMixMorgan]

A DJ who is a draw will get called from the promoter. Won't be any need for the dj to make a call. Friendship is a good way to get in, but i for one make kats that are not draws wait a long time just to weed out who a real friend & who is in it just to play one time for the hype. I love nothing more than for a dj to come to the spot a few weeks back to back & think that should get him or her put on, I get a kick, when the dj start showing his or her tru colors after he don,t get booked.

Dj's should give promoter 's a reason to book them if they are not a draw,by showing them they are willing to work with them to make a happnin ass party.

I like this one. This is what we attempt to do locally and cats have not figured it out. If you come out yet don't tell anyone else about our event then you're no help to the event or the scene. Be a friend, not a fake just to get on, don't hang around the booth and bug the hell out of the DJ/Promoter that evening. We have allowed so many DJs to play here and may have created somewhat of a monster, I barely get to play my own party and folks continue to ask, when are you playing man.

Establish a relationship, locally and long distance and also offer to have that DJ play at your event or at least hook them up with something somewhere, folks often look at the me angle and not the angle of sharing. Just my thoughts.

[JimmyEllis]

Value is not just numbers and $$$ ... although value does translate into those things, with real people

I'll put a DJ on (and I will get put on) for many reasons:

- he/she shows up at an event >50% of the time, sans "trying" to come out
- he/she shows "genuine" interest (e.g. doesn't ignore your promotions online, so as not to look like a ballwasher (with ones 'peeps' or 'crew')), then hits you up via PM asking for a slot <--- that's just for this board :rofl:
- he/she hangs out and about, more than me, and is in touch with "people" not just dancers
- he/she yaps with people at the event to enhance the vibe and overall friendliness-factor
- he/she speaks well of the event outwardly (that's a big one b/c many people show up all the time, and then talk shit all the time to others -- of course you always find that out quickly -- LOL)
- he/she is just generally good for the event ... might not be able to mix to save his/her life

... before I put any heat & fiyah bringin', box-bangin', subversive shit talking fool, on at one of my events ... ANYONE can DJ these days- not many people bring real value


nice post.

[DJJM3.COM]

I like that one cat who "PAYS" the promoter with a side deal to get put on. Dont front, all of you know one or two guys who have done that in the past


Damn, now that's desperate.


I'm kinda neutral on this one

- paying a promoter; might set a bad precedent, unless it's some huge event for exposure

on the other hand

- how many people have paid their own way (airfare, hotel expenses, and other travel expenses) for a gig somewhere? ... likely many

Not too much difference in my mind in those two ... you are either paying the promoter, or you pay American Airlines ... :wink:


No so much paying but NETWORKING. and proper use of Clout.
Senario 1:
Suppose the promoter also promotes an artist or a few bands. ..One of your associates is a drummer, keyboard player, or vocalist..The promoter NEEDS one of the three......You REFER them and in exchange they put you on....

Seanrio 2:
You are plugged in with a Alderman they happen to be good friends with the Almerman who runs the ward where the party is located...The promoter has "issues" with the local Alderman due to local complaints ....You offer to "smooth" things over via your "plugged in Alderman".

More than one way to "Pay"

[Walter Stallworth]

I always like the guys from other cities that are talking just to talk. You get the whole " I'd love to have you come out and play", not knowing I work for an airline. So when I drop that line you always get the "I'll get back to you" and of course most don't. Just have to keep weeding thru the BS.

[Nege]

there is no right approach, but there are plenty of wrong ones

mornin ,

that quote really sums it up, so many ways to get gigs and there is really no right way.

what you say and how you say it, can really turn off someone who has the power to hire you.
and with that said it is like looking for a job as dave said....

also as i said before,
networking and referals from other people in the buisness which is also like looking for a job....



ok now i need to get some sleep......nite..........zzzzzzzzzzzz

[MusicFilter]

Be nice to everyone, you never know who will put you on, hire you or recommend you.

Be a man of your word.

Keep the shit on the board off the board be courteous.

Be a man of your word.

Keep the shit on the board off the board be courteous.

Always be humble, you are never bigger than the music or your talents.

Watch what you say to people about others, you NEVER know who they know.

Don't be affraid to share, that person may get what you are keeping to yourself anyway.

Be nice to everyone, you never know who will put you on, hire you or recommend you.