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OT: The '$200 DJs' Finally Got Me
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OT: The '$200 DJs' Finally Got Me

Charlie Five 9:31 PM - 12 May, 2008
I know this is the Video Discussion forum so I don't want to stray to far off topic. I know most here getting into video are upping their rates and those like me that have been doing video for quite some time have been already making a pretty penny, so I wanted to share my experience.

The $200 DJ's finally got me.

Been at one venue for 2 years. Been doing video there for about 1. It's a decent venue in Chicago (not clubby, not sportsbar), fun for DJ's and you can pretty much play whatever you want (plus I live a block away and get a free tab every night). $10,000 is a normal weekend night so not to big, but enough to pay a DJ a decent amount for a good show. Pretty much thought I was untouchable there as I was good friends with the owners, GM, and the staff. My shows were the only video shows that go on at the venue and were to say the least, cooler than anything else in the bar but my note is considerably higher than the other Residents. Now on to the monetary problems…the Thursday night DJ gets $75 from the bar (rest from promoters) and the new Friday guys get everything from the promoters with the bar not even paying out a dime. Here I come in on a Saturday night with my note of $500, $600 if the bar hits the measly $10,000. So for a month they pay me $2,000-$2,400 while they pay $1,200 for the other 2 nights. For a while it was worth it for the exposure and the hypeness of video, but Its Chicago, everyone here is a DJ and guys undercut each other all the time. Needless to say out I go and in comes some Wavie Video DJ using his shit Midi controller and VDJ. Songs not mixed. Tempos off all night. Video not matching audio all the time. No exclusive edits. Not even a basic scratch with that Midi controller and no real decks…Lets just say nothing close to one of my nights. Who cares, the owner is saving $2000 a month, right? Video on the Tele’s right?

The 2nd venue I was playing at is a brand new club out in the near suburbs of Chicago. Quite a venue (800-1000 people on a good night), but again, its the suburbs. I thought everything was going quite well and better than expected. Again friends with the owners, friends with the staff. Video looked great in the club and I was the only one doing it. Let me also say that this club competes with another club that does video (once a week or so) and does it right. I know the other club books more well known guys like Roonie G and Kris P so this joint needs to be competitive with an experienced guy like me who is willing to truck it out to the burbs. I thought I was killing it there. I’d get at least 5 business cards a night and constant comments and praise. On to the problem...I'm asking for a minimum of $700 with $1000 coming to me when the club hit ‘xxx’ amount of dollars (which it should everynight). Agreed upon by the owners and worth it to them at the time. Not a huge amount but not cheap. My product is well polished and no one is really doing video like me out in Chicago. I know they know the importance of paying the DJ. We had Kid Capri in there 2 weeks ago who's note was $10,000 and alot of known name DJ's have played there, but I was astonished to find out how little they were getting paid. $300...$350...Radio DJ's. Good DJ's. Known Chicago names. The other resident DJ's are also getting the same amount. On to the ending of the venue...They changed my pay without me being involved in the conversation. Straight up called me and told me 'we are going to pay you $500 now, with potential incentives.' $500 is not bad but I have alot of time and money invested in my craft. I'm sure most Video DJ's that are making their own edits, subscribing to video services, buying equipment ($3,000 computers, 57, DVJs, whatever..) are aware of the time and cost to do what we do right. Needless to say they were not going to pay me $1000 when they could pay someone else $200-$350. Now their other resident (who is a new friend of mine) is getting into video. Getting paid $350 for a show that the quality of the video looks like crap is is no where close to or prepared like mine. Not even close.

As most of us know most, managers and owners don't know much about DJing in general, let alone video. They just see $$$ and what have you done for me lately.

How are you approaching new or current venues? How are you pitching to them that you want to incorporate video in their club? Why should they invest in TV’s and equipment? Why should they pay you more? Do you have a press packet? (tightening up mine right now) What’s in it?

God I hate the ‘200 DJ’. Hopefully this new surge in video isn’t going to bring along to much undercutting for professionals who have a lot of time and money invested in their craft.

Thoughts?
Charlie Five 9:31 PM - 12 May, 2008
Damn that was longer than I thought.
J rock 10:03 PM - 12 May, 2008
You have to play private events!! This is where the money is!! Try to hook up with event planners (hopefully one's that don't only do weddings.)
sixxx 10:17 PM - 12 May, 2008
I hate mobiles. I couldn't imagine doing mobiles where now you gotta carry projectors and shit. Yup. Money is good... but not good enough to kill my back.
Donnie Blaze 10:32 PM - 12 May, 2008
Quote:
Needless to say out I go and in comes some Wavie Video DJ using his shit Midi controller and VDJ. Songs not mixed. Tempos off all night. Video not matching audio all the time. No exclusive edits. Not even a basic scratch with that Midi controller and no real decks…Lets just say nothing close to one of my nights.


The only thing worse than a microwave DJ is a microwave Video DJ. There are Video DJs out there playing horrible quality music videos, littered with logos, on very expensive plasmas (makes me sick).

The sad thing is that there's a good chance they're paying the new VJ like $300, so they ditched you to save $200 bucks. If I was the owner I would much rather spend the extra $200 and hire a professional video DJ, who uses the best equipment with the highest quality videos. People are going to be more impressed. They'll end up sticking around longer and subsequently spending more money on drinks.

If the bar can't afford to dish out the extra money it costs to have a good video DJ than they should just hire a regular DJ. In your case charlie, since the bar makes around 10,000 a night they shouldn't have to cut corners.
Dj_KaGeN 11:36 PM - 12 May, 2008
damn Charlie... that shit sucks... sorry to hear that the OC/LA bullshit is spreading.
Culprit 2:31 AM - 13 May, 2008
Quote:
damn Charlie... that shit sucks... sorry to hear that the OC/LA bullshit is spreading.


+1
Dj Mayhem 6:55 AM - 13 May, 2008
$200 djs arent as bad as where i'm from, $100 dollar djs were messin it up, and plenty of "I dj for beer" chumps. :P


i havent found a good pitch yet, still working on that.
nik39 9:24 AM - 13 May, 2008
Quote:
If I was the owner I would much rather spend the extra $200 and hire a professional video DJ, who uses the best equipment with the highest quality videos. People are going to be more impressed.

I guess it all comes down to the question whether the people really recognize the difference so much for them to make a difference for them.
a-swift 2:01 PM - 13 May, 2008
at least you got wavied by a $200 DJ. that's at least respectable man. i get wavied by $50 djs and like mayhem said, <b>DJ-FOR-BEER-CHUMPS</b>,.. which is just plain sad.
Charlie Five 2:12 PM - 13 May, 2008
I was just using the term '$200 DJ'. I know that at one of the venues, the DJ's are getting well less than even $200.
a-swift 3:38 PM - 13 May, 2008
i'm gonna come check you out charlie. i just told work i wanted to come back to the office for the oracle training.

tonight i'm hitting up arizona. i think i might get a set in with steel! we bout to get it crackin!
gmoney1975 4:07 PM - 13 May, 2008
I've had a little bit of this discussion already with Charlie off-line before this went down. It sucks to hear how it unfolded.
I have to agree with nik39, a lot of it comes down to whether the people (crowd/management) really recognize the difference between the A-List dj's/vj's (present company) and the '$200' or 'DJ-FOR-BEER-CHUMPS' or 'Wavies'. And now that video has gone computer (VDJ & VSL), and DJ's rip video files for free off the internet, or MTV or BET or whatever, we will have to deal with/accept this.
Finally, considering the US economy (especially in Michigan, my home state), the 'cheap' dj's/vj's, who are young (kids), and probably bring their crew of 30 people out to 'their first gig', are appealing to club owners/management because they don't know any better, or the crowed doesn't care and, at the end of the night, the bottom line ($$$).
Charlie Five 5:16 PM - 13 May, 2008
Quote:
bring their crew of 30 people out to 'their first gig', are appealing to club owners/management because they don't know any better, or the crowed doesn't care and, at the end of the night, the bottom line ($$$).

Thats what it boils down to sometimes at smaller venues. The management gives someone a chance who they pay considerably less and brings in a group to fill up the bar. They see a few new faces, the bar makes a couple of more $$$ that night, and they feel like it was a good decision. I can't stand management like this who does not see the big picture.

The 'Buzz' of good music and now good video shows makes up for that 10 fold in a competitive nightclub environment. Normal people that go out are now becoming more aware of what we do. Its everywhere you look. Adverts, commercials, magazines, remix this and that...If my girlfriend can tell the difference between a good mix and a bad one then anyone can.
Charlie Five 5:18 PM - 13 May, 2008
Quote:
i'm gonna come check you out charlie. i just told work i wanted to come back to the office for the oracle training.

tonight i'm hitting up arizona. i think i might get a set in with steel! we bout to get it crackin!

For sure Swift. Hopefully I'll have something set up by then.

I might also be heading out to Phoenix this summer to visit family and friends. I'll have to hit him up when I'm out there.
Culprit 5:22 PM - 13 May, 2008
This is true.. economy defenitly playes a role in this. Our long time friend and promoter did this to my friend who was a dj. Great guy and really can pack the place, but he let an unknown dj come in and let him close. He was cool with it because the pay rate did not change, but the guy had to use my friends mixer so he had to stay til the end of the night. The guy couldnt mix at all, tried to scratch, was really horrible, people left earlier than usual, but he promised 40 people in the door, and played for free. He tried to do the same thing a week later when I was there and I had not known who he was. During my friends set, which was the closing set, he pulled out his laptop and i completly shut him down. We were using my equipment that night, and I wont let anyone I do not know touch my equipment. He pulled out his laptop, I asked him what he was doing, he said he was ganna plug in, i told him he could play if he had his own equipment, and he gave me the saddest look ever and said he was only going to go on for like 15 minutes. I literally said "what are you ganna do in 15 mintues to impress the crowd.. really.. no deal".

That was the end of that hehe.
Culprit 5:24 PM - 13 May, 2008
sorry, I meant to say "my friend is a dj" and forgot to mention that he only pulled 15 people his first night, and only like 2 guys the second time he rolled through =P
nik39 5:27 PM - 13 May, 2008
Quote:
Thats what it boils down to sometimes at smaller venues. The management gives someone a chance who they pay considerably less and brings in a group to fill up the bar. They see a few new faces, the bar makes a couple of more $$$ that night, and they feel like it was a good decision. I can't stand management like this who does not see the big picture.

+1


Quote:
He tried to do the same thing a week later when I was there and I had not known who he was. During my friends set, which was the closing set, he pulled out his laptop and i completly shut him down. We were using my equipment that night, and I wont let anyone I do not know touch my equipment. He pulled out his laptop, I asked him what he was doing, he said he was ganna plug in, i told him he could play if he had his own equipment, and he gave me the saddest look ever and said he was only going to go on for like 15 minutes. I literally said "what are you ganna do in 15 mintues to impress the crowd.. really.. no deal".

Did he talk to you and asked you in advance whether he can use your e'ment?
Culprit 5:35 PM - 13 May, 2008
nope, sure didnt, just pulled it out and started plugging into my surge protector
Culprit 5:36 PM - 13 May, 2008
I didnt even know who he was, i found out about the whole situation after that gig. Had no idea he was even a dj until he pulled out his laptop.
nik39 5:39 PM - 13 May, 2008
Yeah, that's wack. DJs who can't spin, who cut the rates, do not have their own equipment and on top expect that they can use yours.

Geez, at least ask before you try starting to get on our equipment, thats the least what you could expect.
Dj Mayhem 10:10 PM - 13 May, 2008
I do a lot of concerts, ive had djs show up and just think they can unplug my laptop and plug theirs in IN THE MIDDLE OF A CONCERT without showing up to even the sound check...


Nah.
eye357 12:08 AM - 14 May, 2008
man, dudes are trying to eat, we are in a bad economy. u got to keep new work coming in and never ever ever ever ever ever ever get comfortable. diss them b4 they diss u.
itchie 12:39 AM - 14 May, 2008
Quote:
I do a lot of concerts, ive had djs show up and just think they can unplug my laptop and plug theirs in IN THE MIDDLE OF A CONCERT without showing up to even the sound check...


Nah.


+1
e40's dj wanted to start upplugging and rearranging all my shit (as the house dj) when i had it hype... the promoter's all 'itchie keep it going'. how do they think this works, magic. we worked it out and got other gear up there.
djbigmark 1:14 AM - 14 May, 2008
keep up with trends, there will always be someone at a lower price. just keep killing them with quality.
Dj Mayhem 5:10 AM - 14 May, 2008
Quote:
Quote:
I do a lot of concerts, ive had djs show up and just think they can unplug my laptop and plug theirs in IN THE MIDDLE OF A CONCERT without showing up to even the sound check...


Nah.


+1
e40's dj wanted to start upplugging and rearranging all my shit (as the house dj) when i had it hype... the promoter's all 'itchie keep it going'. how do they think this works, magic. we worked it out and got other gear up there.


Yeah travelling headlir's dj's i have a little bit more patience with because well...they are the one running the headliner (the reason everyone came)'s set.

are you talking about pizzo? he's always been cool with me, i usually try and set up rigs ahead of time though knowin whats gonna happen (especially if there is a writter)
Dj Mayhem 5:11 AM - 14 May, 2008
matter of fact im djing the e40 show again on the 22nd in spokane lol, this will be the 4th time....haha.
Rick Hodgkins 4:35 PM - 14 May, 2008
Yup, the big $ jobs are going to get harder to find and even harder to keep with more guys looking for work these days.

So was the dude any good?

It shouldn't be based on price or gear.
I've seen guys with total shit for gear rock the place out.

Bottom feeding djs has to be the all time hot topic on the dj boards.

The fact is that it's a food chain, the same food chain that everybody starts at the bottom of.
In that same sense of value, i've seen $1k dj's that I wouldn't pay a nickel to see again.
Residencies are a friggin luxury that most of us don't have.
Its a dog eat dog world with few dog bowls around, I lose plenty of jobs to these types.
Sure it pisses you off, but it also sharpens your game.

Sorry to hear C5, but I am a firm believer in fate.
Something better will come from this, you can't keep the good guys down for long.

r
trido 6:18 PM - 14 May, 2008
Unfortunately the Top 40 / Hip-Hop DJs/VJS are a dieng breed. The reason for this is that we all price gouge each other because there are so many of us. Let me tell you this, people on the dance floor don't care if you are good or bad just as long as you play whats on MTV or the Radio. I think club owners see this and think the same thing. They want cheap product as does every business owner. They don't care about quality anymore because club patrons don't care. Especially after they get blitzed. I think the only money to be had in the DJ game anymore is House / Electro gigs. I make in one night at these types of events than I do in three nights doing main stream stuff. On another note as far as the VJ scene in OC/LA I know for a fact that there are some Pioneer VJ's that have started charging to video what I charge to do Audio. THIS IS A HUGE PROBLEM!!!! You would think these guys would know better than to whore out Video Skills, but looking around it seems now that everyone with a 57 and a Mac is doing video now. I give it 6 more months and next thing you know people are gonna charge 150 a night for video. I think I'm gonna start a union and be the next Jimmy Hoffa of DJing. If we all unite than we can charge whatever we want! GO TEAMSTERS!!
sixxx 6:42 PM - 14 May, 2008
Good words trido.
Rick Hodgkins 7:06 PM - 14 May, 2008
What makes it even worse now is that the video libraries are recapped with "classic" series that cut the crap that the rest of us had to pay for to get into this business.
You can get the classics up to 2001 now and instead of paying $600 bucks for the year, get 2-3 discs at $40 each and cover yourself.
The sharing has become a problem too, so now with drives being cheap it has undermined what the rest of us spent THOUSANDS on in the past and now we compete for the jobs which sucks the big one.

The market is much bigger than just the club scene guys and more profitable also.
J rock 7:21 PM - 14 May, 2008
special events PAY!!! what is your goal? to get paid or to be cool? if you are only worried about money get into special events. Play sport folk'sB-day parties, magazine parties, etc.... there are tons of cool events that are not weddings.


AND THEY PAY ALOT, because they know the difference between someone with skills and a sucker!! and if they don't just shut up and take the money!
Culprit 7:35 PM - 14 May, 2008
Quote:
special events PAY!!! what is your goal? to get paid or to be cool? if you are only worried about money get into special events. Play sport folk'sB-day parties, magazine parties, etc.... there are tons of cool events that are not weddings.


AND THEY PAY ALOT, because they know the difference between someone with skills and a sucker!! and if they don't just shut up and take the money!


+1

Indeed, Special Events Rule. alot of work but worth the money. I dont have all my equipment just yet simply because I am just starting but my unlce has been djing for 30+ years and he makes his dj money from these. Has all the equipment. We do cheerleading events, any type of middle/high school gig, tradeshow private parties and corperate events and those are a minimum 2 grand. Residencys are just something extra I would say. The special events are important if your trying to make a living. Big investment, but well worth it. Like trido said as well, once your in good with those special event coordinators, they really dont switch around to save money because in the long run they end up loosing out.
J rock 7:46 PM - 14 May, 2008
well said Culprit.

When your building your client list you can always rent gear. you can even have them bring it and set it up. This way you don't get stuck with some outdated shit nobody wants in five years! And you would look like a champ cause you always have cool new shit!!!
J rock 7:48 PM - 14 May, 2008
beside if your really "keeping it real" you would do it for the love. Why do so many DJ hate on dude that figured out how to make the cash! Even Dr. Dre DJ'ed wedding back in the day. no matter what it's better then any day job.
Rick Hodgkins 7:57 PM - 14 May, 2008
Here's an example:
Last weekend I did a 5 hr video prom for $1200.
2 subs, 2 tops, one crank up light tree with 7 intels and a 6x8' screen.
Home by 1am.
Did a "Not so talented" party at Newport Yacht Club for 4 hrs for $600 on sat night. An hour of dinner music, and the rest of the night was mixed dance and talent including some karaoke that had the whole place singing their asses off.
Beatmixing out of karoke caught them totally off guard btw and they loved the seamless action between the two.
This Friday I have another $1200 video prom with the same set up and a audio only prom for an easy $575 on Sat night.

Kids love the rap and hip hop and if you can mix, you are going to feel the love again and again.

And, yes its more work, but worth it.
phaeton 9:53 PM - 14 May, 2008
Quote:

Beatmixing out of karoke caught them totally off guard btw and they loved the seamless action between the two.

Cool, never seen that before and this is with VSL and the Karaoke plug in?
Culprit 10:30 PM - 14 May, 2008
hmm karaoke plugin.. any links?
Charlie Five 5:16 PM - 15 May, 2008
Quote:
The sharing has become a problem too, so now with drives being cheap it has undermined what the rest of us spent THOUSANDS on in the past and now we compete for the jobs which sucks the big one.

True. I have had a few DJ friends that are making the transition into video approach on getting their hands on my library. One offered me $400! I almost passed out. The other is managing a group of DJ's that are just getting into video. 8 guys all together. I said even at $2 a video your looking at $10,000. He was a little floored that I set it that high but no chance would I have sold it in the 1st place. Shit I don't even show or share my exclusives.
Charlie Five 5:16 PM - 15 May, 2008
Quote:
hmm karaoke plugin.. any links?

He uses VDJ.
Charlie Five 5:23 PM - 15 May, 2008
Quote:
Yup, the big $ jobs are going to get harder to find and even harder to keep with more guys looking for work these days.

So was the dude any good?

It shouldn't be based on price or gear.
I've seen guys with total shit for gear rock the place out.

Bottom feeding djs has to be the all time hot topic on the dj boards.

The fact is that it's a food chain, the same food chain that everybody starts at the bottom of.
In that same sense of value, i've seen $1k dj's that I wouldn't pay a nickel to see again.
Residencies are a friggin luxury that most of us don't have.
Its a dog eat dog world with few dog bowls around, I lose plenty of jobs to these types.
Sure it pisses you off, but it also sharpens your game.

Sorry to hear C5, but I am a firm believer in fate.
Something better will come from this, you can't keep the good guys down for long.

r

Yeah Rick I have quite a few ends so I'm sure everything will work out, but I just don't understand the 'start Farmar and leave Kobe on the bench' bar manager mentality.
Charlie Five 5:28 PM - 15 May, 2008
Quote:
beside if your really "keeping it real" you would do it for the love. Why do so many DJ hate on dude that figured out how to make the cash!

I don't DJ for 'the love'. I know that pisses out of guys off but I DJ for 'the dollars'. I've got alot of time and money invested in my craft. If I wasn't making the right dollars, I wouldn't do it anymore. This is my business (so much for the $60,000 education) and I have an expensive lifestyle. I can't charge $200 (or less) to DJ.
J rock 7:06 PM - 15 May, 2008
So then you can relate to the club owners. That is exactly how they justify hiring $200 DJ's. they have a bottom line too.
as business owners the last thing they want to here about is your "expensive lifestyle"
Rick Hodgkins 7:34 PM - 15 May, 2008
On the other hand, if a dj has come on and built up the club's gate and profitability, he should also share in the rewards of it.
If C5 did this and now they are selling him out for what ever the reason, that is wrong and they will eat crow sooner or later.
Charlie Five 8:27 PM - 15 May, 2008
Quote:
On the other hand, if a dj has come on and built up the club's gate and profitability, he should also share in the rewards of it.
If C5 did this and now they are selling him out for what ever the reason, that is wrong and they will eat crow sooner or later.

Right. The neighborhood spot was known as a Depaul (college in Chicago) Kids Club before I came around and started to bring in a different crowd on my nights. On another note I just heard earlier that they are looking to sell the licenses to the venues so the big picture is starting to come together.
Charlie Five 8:31 PM - 15 May, 2008
Quote:
as business owners the last thing they want to here about is your "expensive lifestyle"

Well maybe that came out wrong. I wouldn't be able to live, eat, and have any type of social life in my neighborhood in Chicago if I charged $200 or less (unless I had a dayjob in which would limit my time to work on my craft).
J rock 9:05 PM - 15 May, 2008
Right, if the club makes "x" dollars the DJ gets "y".

Look, I'm not saying it's right,it's just the way it is, has been and will be! (that is untill you guys open your own club)

I have a friend that used to own a place and it is incredible the kid of shit club owners deal with. At least in NY, weeknights are dead since the ban on smoking, they have these crazy cabaret laws which have forced a few place's to remove their DJ booth's completely. Drunk fuckers try to sue them when their eyeglass's get broken. Noise complaint One DJ at my fiends place swapped there old fucked up ttm56 for the clubs new one. (he did get it back but it was a big hassel) I mean there are threads on this forum about sloppy DJ's leaving the DJ booth a mess. Go figure why Club owners aren't that sensitive to DJ's needs. Besides a clubs main business is selling drinks. A DJ that is "to good" has people dancing more then drinking. So the DJ that can actually rock the crowd all night can actually hurt a clubs business. this is also why Clubs mix it up. they don't want someone who suck's but they don't need Kid Capri every night either.
life sucks!
J rock 9:06 PM - 15 May, 2008
noise complaints.

sorry bad punctuation
Rick Hodgkins 10:17 PM - 15 May, 2008
Quote:
On another note I just heard earlier that they are looking to sell the licenses to the venues so the big picture is starting to come together.


So there you have your reason.
It probably wasn't a case of dude dj struttin through the door with his cheap sell, the club went looking for options as they are selling out and want to conserve due to their own questionable future.

Maybe that door will open again with the new owners.

Makes perfect sense C5, as long as you got a referrence out of it you will be fine.


J, I'm not convinced that the smoking ban did as much damage as the dui oui laws have done. There are fewer people smoking these days and even more that stopped going to clubs BECAUSE of the smoke that are returning. (like me)

Club owners play a tough game to win really.
J rock 10:31 PM - 15 May, 2008
Been there done that I know!
sixxx 10:33 PM - 15 May, 2008
Quote:
Right, if the club makes "x" dollars the DJ gets "y".


Not really. Many clubs casually forget to pay their DJ once he's bringing in a huge crowd (video or not). We're doing a spot right now where we gave them a break because they were just starting. Now it's packed EVERY night and they even started charging which they initially weren't... and guess what? We're still getting the same. I found out they were charging cause I went outside and realized they were charging!!!!

So, now we're hitting them for more money.


So. the formula goes something like this:

if the club makes "x" dollars the DJ gets "s" for screwed.
J rock 10:45 PM - 15 May, 2008
So you learned your lesson to negotiate deals like that before hand not after the fact!
making deals is part of your job too. Put yourself in his position
J rock 10:47 PM - 15 May, 2008
mp3jrick it looks like you live in Mass. who would you know what happened in NY on week nights?
Rick Hodgkins 11:27 PM - 15 May, 2008
Quote:
mp3jrick it looks like you live in Mass. who would you know what happened in NY on week nights?


Who's talking about NY except for you J?
Not that this thread is city specific, the problem is a national one.

Go Red Sox
J rock 12:13 AM - 16 May, 2008
Quote:


At least in NY, weeknights are dead since the ban on smoking,


Well I was using it as a local problem club owners have in NY. you then said

".J, I'm not convinced that the smoking ban did as much damage as the dui oui laws have done. There are fewer people smoking these days and even more that stopped going to clubs BECAUSE of the smoke that are returning. (like me)"

Smoking laws are state laws so every place is going to be effected in drasticaly different ways. NY was one of the first few states to have laws like it. NJ didn't have anti smoking laws till three years after NY. It killed the scene in NY for a long time. That's teriffic that it wasn't so bad it Ma. It was really bad in NY you have to remember that our ban happened not even two years after 9/11. between the two alot of careers were ruined.

red sox suck!
Rick Hodgkins 12:25 AM - 16 May, 2008
Rays 24 17 .585 - 16-8 8-9 8-2 W1 -
Red Sox 24 19 .558 1 14-5 10-14 4-6 L4 120
Orioles 21 19 .525 2 ½ 12-6 9-13 5-5 W2 120
Blue Jays 21 22 .488 4 10-9 11-13 5-5 W4 117
Yankees 20 22 .476 4 ½ 9-9 11-13 4-6 L1 117


Really???

Smoking killed if off here too J, no shit.
Its just a fact of life and in recovery thats all.
More and more people are quitting these days.

But, my point was that oui has become a bigger factor.
As a dj on the road with these assholes at 1-2am when the bars close it too is for the better if you ever had a friend or relative killed by one of them.

Anyway, we are way off track here.
At least we're on the same page with the private stuff.
J rock 2:03 AM - 16 May, 2008
oui?

i figured thats drinking and driving.

but yes we agree.
DJ Ambassador Jr. 8:05 PM - 16 May, 2008
I have absolutely NO RESPECT for ANY club owner or manager. I've never met one that I liked or trusted. Most of them are total idiots who don't have a clue about what's involved in being a DJ (unless they themselves are DJs which is very rare) and how much work it is. They simply don't care what you play as long as they get more dollars$$$$. They are basically money-hungry WHORES.

There ... I got it off my chest ... I feel better now.
Dj Mayhem 8:09 PM - 16 May, 2008
I have met a couple i like. but i understand your feelings lol.
Dj TopDonn 7:03 PM - 19 May, 2008
Yo Charlie Five, let me know when ur doing a live video set and i'll come and check it out. I Live in the Chi too and do events at Sonotheque.
DJ Dan-E 2:31 AM - 20 May, 2008
Well it is sad about prices going down. However we just brought Video to the Toledo area about 3 months ago. I have been pushing it over a year. However the owners dont want to pay shit. 250. is about all they will go for. Not only that they dont want to spend the money into the bars to do the video correctly. However new bar opening up about 45 miles away, and they are consulting me on videos, along with a video switcher so that way I can have videos and other ambients on other screens.
On another not how many people here are going to hit the DEMF? Detroit Electronic Music Festival?
Charlie Five 2:51 AM - 20 May, 2008
Nice hope the other bar works out. Nothing worse the cheap bars/clubs.

Thats funny about your DEMF post. I just started a new thread about it. I actually just made plans today to go.
DVDjHardy 3:05 AM - 20 May, 2008
What up Charlie, sorry to hear about this BS.

I noticed you and Dan both mentioned DEMF - scratchlive.net - Probably wanna read from bottom up since there is a lot of useless info at the top. Basically we're having some Serato users from this board and some other local cats getting together on Thurs and Fri.

I'm playing every night from Thurs-Mon this weekend, so I hope you guys can make it to one of them. Also, if you're interested in doing a short set on Friday, let me know.

I'll PM you guys my #.
a-swift 3:37 AM - 20 May, 2008
Charlie, I'm headed to the chi in about 3 weeks. i'll be there a whole week.
Charlie Five 3:39 AM - 20 May, 2008
Word. Hit me on myspace and we'll exchange info. Def hook up. Hopefully I'll have some new events lined up by then.
trido 4:40 AM - 20 May, 2008
I just got booked a gig in Chi at the beginning of Aug. Some place called John Barleycorn. Anyone ever heard of it?
Dj TopDonn 3:01 PM - 21 May, 2008
There are two John Barleycorn's, one is right by the Cubs Stadium in Wrigleyville. Crowd there is ok, ranges from college kids (21+) to just about 27-28. The other location just opened up in Schaumburg (northwest suburb of chicago), real close to my spot actually. Here's a link to their site

www.johnbarleycorn.com
Charlie Five 3:28 PM - 21 May, 2008
Actually there are 3 JB's. There is also one in Lincoln Park (Chicago) on Lincoln Ave. Its right across from my apartment. No DJ's there though. They sponsored my flag football team.
DJ Lique 6:05 AM - 26 May, 2008
Quote:
$200 djs arent as bad as where i'm from, $100 dollar djs were messin it up, and plenty of "I dj for beer" chumps. :P


i havent found a good pitch yet, still working on that.


The guy that replaced me downloaded ALL of his music and the owner fronted him the money for Scratch Live. He pulls $75 they removed the video screens after I left. ;)

Oh by the way Mayhem I need to cover a night for me, there's a 20 spot in it for ya and all the beer you can drink! ;)
Dj Mayhem 7:34 AM - 26 May, 2008
I'll cover your mom for a night for 20 bucks and a SH!T TON OF BEER.

;D
Charlie Five 2:02 PM - 3 May, 2009
Curious...even though this thread is a year old.

Has this economy and the influx of new guys stepping into video effected anyone recently? ie pay cuts, long term residencies letting you go, lower rates for traveling, your competitors charging less ect...

I've found in Chicago at least a lot of venues are becoming interested in video and some are beginning to implement it but the $$$ isn't just what it was. I've been approached to do a few venues for $300 to $400 (some even less) and turned them down. They are also currently paying their guys less and that would be an increase in what they paid out (the bar) per night but shit, where does the line get drawn? Don't get me wrong that's pretty decent dollars but I'm just curious how everyone else is dealing, $$$ wise.
dj lad 10:02 PM - 3 May, 2009
The economy has hurt everyone; you can see it when bars that used to fill up at 11 and are now filling up at 12 or 1.

I had to take a pay cut at one place of $50 - it sucks, but it's better than losing the gig. I've been dealing with it by doing more gigs out of town, which is helping.

Part of the problem is that often venues simply don't want to pay extra for video. It sucks, but it's true. Especially in this environment.
marknonsense1 1:14 AM - 6 May, 2009
Quote:
The economy has hurt everyone; you can see it when bars that used to fill up at 11 and are now filling up at 12 or 1.

I had to take a pay cut at one place of $50 - it sucks, but it's better than losing the gig. I've been dealing with it by doing more gigs out of town, which is helping.

Part of the problem is that often venues simply don't want to pay extra for video. It sucks, but it's true. Especially in this environment.


Just buy a club, You'll be fine.
djgeeth 4:28 AM - 6 May, 2009
Haha the manager at the club I work at (for slightly less than 200/night [its the going rate in my town]) saw that I could do video and asked what we would need to make it work, I said: "buy bulbs for the broken projectors, cables, splitter boxes, and increase my pay."

He didnt like that. Needless to say, no video at my club.
trido 4:45 AM - 6 May, 2009
Quote:
Curious...even though this thread is a year old.

Has this economy and the influx of new guys stepping into video effected anyone recently? ie pay cuts, long term residencies letting you go, lower rates for traveling, your competitors charging less ect...

I've found in Chicago at least a lot of venues are becoming interested in video and some are beginning to implement it but the $$$ isn't just what it was. I've been approached to do a few venues for $300 to $400 (some even less) and turned them down. They are also currently paying their guys less and that would be an increase in what they paid out (the bar) per night but shit, where does the line get drawn? Don't get me wrong that's pretty decent dollars but I'm just curious how everyone else is dealing, $$$ wise.


Just got asked to do Chicago again this month but the money just wasn't there. Would have been my 4th time back there and the rate was about $400 less than all the other times. Same venues. Had to turn it down because when all and all was said and done I might as well have just took the night off completely. Their reasoning was the economy.

On another note, my girl is a gogo dancer, she went from dancing 6 days a week to dancing 3 days a week if she's lucky because the clubs are trying to cut costs. Definitely a sign of the times... all those mortgage brokers aren't buying bottles anymore so it's definitely affecting club profits. (So they say!) She's also a bartender during the day and she is pulling half the tips now than she used to. I hope the industry picks up somehow.
marknonsense1 6:30 AM - 6 May, 2009
Trido, a gogo dancer? Man you got it all! A cool myspace, site, video mix, audio mix, DJM-800, VSW-1, DVJ-1000s. . . I got to see you live sometime.
Charlie Five 1:59 PM - 6 May, 2009
Quote:
Just got asked to do Chicago again this month but the money just wasn't there. Would have been my 4th time back there and the rate was about $400 less than all the other times. Same venues. Had to turn it down because when all and all was said and done I might as well have just took the night off completely. Their reasoning was the economy.

On another note, my girl is a gogo dancer, she went from dancing 6 days a week to dancing 3 days a week if she's lucky because the clubs are trying to cut costs. Definitely a sign of the times... all those mortgage brokers aren't buying bottles anymore so it's definitely affecting club profits. (So they say!) She's also a bartender during the day and she is pulling half the tips now than she used to. I hope the industry picks up somehow.

Trido I believe you are talking about Barleycorn in the Suburbs right? The bar I was referring to is their competitor. I have done work with the owners at their bars in the city (Moes and Barleycorn on Clark). To cut cost they actually only have a DJ at Moes on Friday (Jake Reno, good friend) and pump the sound through Barleycorn which is next door, and a DJ at Barley on Saturday and pump the sound to Moes. Its very strange...a DJ controlling the music for a completely diff crowd at a diff bar especially when video gets involved.
a-swift 2:22 PM - 6 May, 2009
Quote:
Quote:
Just got asked to do Chicago again this month but the money just wasn't there. Would have been my 4th time back there and the rate was about $400 less than all the other times. Same venues. Had to turn it down because when all and all was said and done I might as well have just took the night off completely. Their reasoning was the economy.

On another note, my girl is a gogo dancer, she went from dancing 6 days a week to dancing 3 days a week if she's lucky because the clubs are trying to cut costs. Definitely a sign of the times... all those mortgage brokers aren't buying bottles anymore so it's definitely affecting club profits. (So they say!) She's also a bartender during the day and she is pulling half the tips now than she used to. I hope the industry picks up somehow.

Trido I believe you are talking about Barleycorn in the Suburbs right? The bar I was referring to is their competitor. I have done work with the owners at their bars in the city (Moes and Barleycorn on Clark). To cut cost they actually only have a DJ at Moes on Friday (Jake Reno, good friend) and pump the sound through Barleycorn which is next door, and a DJ at Barley on Saturday and pump the sound to Moes. Its very strange...a DJ controlling the music for a completely diff crowd at a diff bar especially when video gets involved.


i'll top that. i have a guy right now who is talking to me about doing video for some clubs he is involved with. he sells them a dj service but there is no dj on site. i would be piped is on some "via satellite" type shit.

he says i can green screen it from my kitchen if i want, and of course he gets to sell to as many clubs will buy it.

still trying to explain to him that i can't rock a crowd from my kitchen, when there is no crowd in my kitchen. he doesn't believe me though since there are already cats doing this.
djpuma_gemini 3:33 PM - 6 May, 2009
What kind of crowd reading is that.
vegetables and fruits.
Funkytownstopsix 3:40 PM - 6 May, 2009
I don't do clubs (I hate the cigarette smoke)so I can't say but I do weddings and other special events. Weddings are by far my biggest money maker then schools but I hate them because top 40 does not apply to kids in Texas it's all about underground music.

I am a very professional dj that wears a tie and to be honest a very handsome lad with very good dj skills. I get referrals all the time and I get parties out of doing weddings. This year alone I have done two weddings for people that are re-marring to someone else..That's crazy.

Times are hard and with stiff competition we all will come down on price or get no work at all. I will be honest and say I have come down on my price a few times (like about 100-150)but this only when I have nothing else planed because it's better to do what I love and make money then to sit at home and not get paid. Plus you get to put your name out,,,PUB is the best way to get paid.. I'm not saying come down to 200,,,but fact remains I get undercut a lot by the 200 dollar dj's. Only thing that keeps me in the game is that I am a professional with good articulation, trust me that makes a big difference and that I have samples of my work almost always on hand with my I-touch and cell phone on demand. Tried the club thing back in the day and hated it.....mostly because of owners.... So I feel all of you....


Quote:
A-swift you can be as big as Oprah if you go live in your kitchen. : )
AKIEM 4:09 AM - 7 May, 2009
time to bust out the morning breeze
DJ Dan-E 5:52 AM - 7 May, 2009
Quote:
Quote:
Quote:
Just got asked to do Chicago again this month but the money just wasn't there. Would have been my 4th time back there and the rate was about $400 less than all the other times. Same venues. Had to turn it down because when all and all was said and done I might as well have just took the night off completely. Their reasoning was the economy.

On another note, my girl is a gogo dancer, she went from dancing 6 days a week to dancing 3 days a week if she's lucky because the clubs are trying to cut costs. Definitely a sign of the times... all those mortgage brokers aren't buying bottles anymore so it's definitely affecting club profits. (So they say!) She's also a bartender during the day and she is pulling half the tips now than she used to. I hope the industry picks up somehow.

Trido I believe you are talking about Barleycorn in the Suburbs right? The bar I was referring to is their competitor. I have done work with the owners at their bars in the city (Moes and Barleycorn on Clark). To cut cost they actually only have a DJ at Moes on Friday (Jake Reno, good friend) and pump the sound through Barleycorn which is next door, and a DJ at Barley on Saturday and pump the sound to Moes. Its very strange...a DJ controlling the music for a completely diff crowd at a diff bar especially when video gets involved.


i'll top that. i have a guy right now who is talking to me about doing video for some clubs he is involved with. he sells them a dj service but there is no dj on site. i would be piped is on some "via satellite" type shit.

he says i can green screen it from my kitchen if i want, and of course he gets to sell to as many clubs will buy it.

still trying to explain to him that i can't rock a crowd from my kitchen, when there is no crowd in my kitchen. he doesn't believe me though since there are already cats doing this.


Aaron funny you say this, we were talking about doing this in the Detroit area. I am in IT field and with the bandwidth its doable. All you need is live cams at all the places than you have your crowd. Not sure tho how the crowd would react to a Virtual DJ? I know I wouldnt pay much to go in the club, might as well throw on Sirius Radio BPM.
DVDjHardy 12:36 PM - 7 May, 2009
Or a pre-made DVD...
trido 12:56 PM - 7 May, 2009
Quote:
Trido, a gogo dancer? Man you got it all! A cool myspace, site, video mix, audio mix, DJM-800, VSW-1, DVJ-1000s. . . I got to see you live sometime.


LOL! Crazy didn't know people actually paid attention to profiles on here. Most of that equipment is long gone now. All that's left are 2 CDJs, an 800 and a 57. I'm probably gonna dump the 57 soon also and replace it with a 909 now that I dont need it for video anymore. As far as the dancer, everyone on the forum that has met her knows she's a hand full. Site by joomla (I highly recommend it, so simple!), and my 13 year old brother has more friends than I do on Myspace. I'm playing in Newport every weekend, come down and check it out! Not the coolest joint in town but the got alot of screens.
Kris P. 3:40 PM - 7 May, 2009
Tre come get your 909 foo! It's in my trunk! :p The think what people are missing is that its not the clubs/events that are driving the price down its the DJ's. Major events and parties as still paying $$$ for it the DJs that are "trying to get their name out" or two days away from paying rent that do the shows no money that brings the pay down. Its a catch 22.

Do Weddings thats where the money is at LOL.
DVDjHardy 3:42 PM - 7 May, 2009
I'm hiring Kris for my wedding. I'll let you know the date in 2020. LOL
a-swift 3:55 PM - 7 May, 2009
Quote:
Quote:


still trying to explain to him that i can't rock a crowd from my kitchen, when there is no crowd in my kitchen. he doesn't believe me though since there are already cats doing this.


Aaron funny you say this, we were talking about doing this in the Detroit area. I am in IT field and with the bandwidth its doable. All you need is live cams at all the places than you have your crowd. Not sure tho how the crowd would react to a Virtual DJ? I know I wouldnt pay much to go in the club, might as well throw on Sirius Radio BPM.


if it were audio only remote DJing, i'd say the technology is pretty strong. with the right tools, delay, congestion compensation, i think this could be flawless on a shoestring budget (read: high profit) in a pretty repeatable way.

however, trying to mickey mouse a solid remote video performance with what's available at a consumer level would be a serious challenge. news channels have been doing this for decades with pro gear but you'd really have to sell a LOT of clubs on this idea to make the pro gear even feasible.

unless, of course you figure out how to hijack, modify and operate a tv news van with a satellite uplink.

i was actually thinking about it.
Funkytownstopsix 4:38 PM - 7 May, 2009
Thug....Sraight thug..
Millz 4:59 PM - 7 May, 2009
The idea of djin @ home or making premade mixes in place of a live dj/vdj makes me sick. If a nightclub owner cant afford a dj, he/she has a serious drug problem, gambling problem or whore problem. WTF
marknonsense1 7:06 PM - 7 May, 2009
Quote:
Quote:
Trido, a gogo dancer? Man you got it all! A cool myspace, site, video mix, audio mix, DJM-800, VSW-1, DVJ-1000s. . . I got to see you live sometime.


LOL! Crazy didn't know people actually paid attention to profiles on here. Most of that equipment is long gone now. All that's left are 2 CDJs, an 800 and a 57. I'm probably gonna dump the 57 soon also and replace it with a 909 now that I dont need it for video anymore. As far as the dancer, everyone on the forum that has met her knows she's a hand full. Site by joomla (I highly recommend it, so simple!), and my 13 year old brother has more friends than I do on Myspace. I'm playing in Newport every weekend, come down and check it out! Not the coolest joint in town but the got alot of screens.


Yeah man for sure. I look at profiles cause I'm an equipment NERD, I'm still building an inventory but I love looking for the "what to buy next". Plus a lot of talented people on this forum it's always cool to look @ their vidz or what not.
Culprit 7:09 PM - 7 May, 2009
i am the same ar marknonsense, i always look at the profiles for peoples equipment as well :P
marknonsense1 7:16 PM - 7 May, 2009
Kris P +1 (If people just give up the gig for a week or two the client will come back (If you're better at least) : ) ), lol @ DVDJHardy 2020 date.
trido 11:09 PM - 7 May, 2009
Quote:
Tre come get your 909 foo! It's in my trunk! :p


Kris, this weekend I promise just got busy with family ish this past week! I'll hit you up on Sat. or Sun. I swear!
Kris P. 5:04 AM - 8 May, 2009
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Quote:
Tre come get your 909 foo! It's in my trunk! :p


Kris, this weekend I promise just got busy with family ish this past week! I'll hit you up on Sat. or Sun. I swear!


Not a big deal, just giving you a hard time. I'll be around.
a-swift 2:50 PM - 8 May, 2009
Quote:
Quote:
Quote:
Tre come get your 909 foo! It's in my trunk! :p


Kris, this weekend I promise just got busy with family ish this past week! I'll hit you up on Sat. or Sun. I swear!


Not a big deal, just giving you a hard time. I'll be around.


i'll take his 909 if he's not gonna use it. especially if it's paid for.
Charlie Five 4:03 PM - 8 May, 2009
+1
Charlie Five 4:05 PM - 8 May, 2009
Really what the thread is about is DJs under cutting DJs and promoters and mangers thinking they know whats best.
Millz 4:12 PM - 8 May, 2009
aka lowballin..happens all the time here in PGH
a-swift 4:52 PM - 8 May, 2009
Quote:
Really what the thread is about is DJs under cutting DJs and promoters and mangers thinking they know whats best.


i've been undercut many times. i can't think of many times that ended up working out for the club. almost always they ask me back.
Funkytownstopsix 5:12 PM - 8 May, 2009
u get what you pay for and that statement is so true...
DJ-Phat-AL 11:41 PM - 8 May, 2009
lost my saturday gig because of undercutters... w
Came back to vegas (where I live) from my wedding in texas to find out my gig is no more because someone who "knows" the owner is doing it for cheaper. The fucked up thing is that the lounge was working on getting video set up. They had several screens but just need to route signal, etc... the new cheaper dj's are ONLY doing audio.
djpuma_gemini 12:12 AM - 9 May, 2009
That sucks Phat-Al.
YOu should just talk to the management all proper like and tell them, that when it doesn't work out do not call you back, you will not be there to help them. Tell them you've seen this happen all the time and you won't be there to help them out.
a-swift 12:29 AM - 9 May, 2009
Quote:
the new cheaper dj's are ONLY doing audio.


come to so cal. the video djs are undercutters now too. $100 for a full night of video and that's no shit.
marknonsense1 1:27 AM - 9 May, 2009
Quote:
Quote:
the new cheaper dj's are ONLY doing audio.


come to so cal. the video djs are undercutters now too. $100 for a full night of video and that's no shit.


Really? I don't see how they can pay for this shit on 100 a night. Must be using limewire vidz lol
Kris P. 2:33 AM - 9 May, 2009
Aaron I've to (2) DJM909 (1) DJM707 (1) DJM3000 (2) CDJ1000MK3 (6) DVDJ1000s and....for sale. what do you need?
Funkytownstopsix 2:35 AM - 9 May, 2009
Where there is a will there is a way...Phat Al was in Texas and didn't let me know I am hurt....I mean we go back since the 5th Grade. Anyway congrats and fuck all the low bottom feeding djs who don't know the net worth of a dj and fucks money off for everybody else. I am sure this is what an artist feels like when they see their songs on limewire.... Yeap it sucks...
a-swift 2:43 AM - 9 May, 2009
Quote:
Aaron I've to (2) DJM909 (1) DJM707 (1) DJM3000 (2) CDJ1000MK3 (6) DVDJ1000s and....for sale. what do you need?


i don't "NEED" anything. i just like gear! seriously though, a replacement mixer for my 2nd coffin is probably in order.
Culprit 2:47 AM - 9 May, 2009
Quote:
Quote:
Aaron I've to (2) DJM909 (1) DJM707 (1) DJM3000 (2) CDJ1000MK3 (6) DVDJ1000s and....for sale. what do you need?


i don't "NEED" anything. i just like gear! seriously though, a replacement mixer for my 2nd coffin is probably in order.


an expensive addiction.. i too dont need gear, yet i keep buying more.. n more.. n more..

And this recession is just making it 10 times worse.
a-swift 3:42 AM - 9 May, 2009
Quote:
Quote:
Quote:
Aaron I've to (2) DJM909 (1) DJM707 (1) DJM3000 (2) CDJ1000MK3 (6) DVDJ1000s and....for sale. what do you need?


i don't "NEED" anything. i just like gear! seriously though, a replacement mixer for my 2nd coffin is probably in order.


an expensive addiction.. i too dont need gear, yet i keep buying more.. n more.. n more..

And this recession is just making it 10 times worse.


don't tell em swift told you,.. but a lot of good deals to be had on gear in this economy.
Millz 6:03 AM - 9 May, 2009
my cue and play buttons are wearing out on my cdj1000mk3ssssss
Charlie Five 7:48 PM - 9 May, 2009
AL : Thats WHACK! Sorry to hear that man.

Spinning on CDJ's tonight...Maybe the 2nd time in years. <fingers crossed>
Millz 8:58 PM - 9 May, 2009
ah, they still work, i just gotta slam em...sometime soon i should prob send them to pioneer and bust out and dust off my tech 12s
DJ Dan-E 11:29 PM - 9 May, 2009
Well here is some thought, get sponsors for video (Miller Lite, Budweiser, local car dealerships) Tell them you will throw up some adds during the night (its a writeoff for the business) and you make money! Than do the night for free, however do the smart thing and get a contract made up, so that others wont come and under cut you.
Also another idea, is throw a nice show together, and market yourself, however not to be a resident dj. This way you can go club to club and make it a big night and make more money. CLubs are more prone to do this. At least in OH/MI area.
marknonsense1 2:37 AM - 10 May, 2009
Quote:
Well here is some thought, get sponsors for video (Miller Lite, Budweiser, local car dealerships) Tell them you will throw up some adds during the night (its a writeoff for the business) and you make money! Than do the night for free, however do the smart thing and get a contract made up, so that others wont come and under cut you.
Also another idea, is throw a nice show together, and market yourself, however not to be a resident dj. This way you can go club to club and make it a big night and make more money. CLubs are more prone to do this. At least in OH/MI area.


Man you giving out all the secrets! lol
Henry GQ 3:20 AM - 10 May, 2009
yeah this price thing is CRAZY. kris p played one of the clubs in my city, the owners typically pay their djs 150 a night... 150 a night ? wtf ?
i know kris got paid...

but at another club that the one owner... owned/still owns. he was payin me 350 on one night and 250-300 on another... sooooo i dunno what happened...


but granted the one other owner who is a dj also supplies most of the music & videos...
but im not sure how to look at that.. im definately one of the guys in town that wont dj for less than 300, and btw...theres only one other dj in town that gets more than that... so i know im not doing too bad 4 my city. and its a small city too.

but still. its all these noob djs, that are killing the market. its like gold, the less there is... the more expensive it is... so if someone wants to start knockin off some djs, go ahead... but before u do that consider jumping off a bridge afterwards.

noob djs... whatcha gonna do ?
dj lad 4:25 AM - 11 May, 2009
I think it's really cheesy and cheap to sell ad time during your gig. If I owned a bar, I wouldn't want that either; it looks desperate.
Culprit 5:23 PM - 11 May, 2009
Quote:
I think it's really cheesy and cheap to sell ad time during your gig. If I owned a bar, I wouldn't want that either; it looks desperate.


Im not allowed to do it at my venue unless the owner approves and gets a percentage, but i do not get taxed the tips i get for putting birthday & special messages on the screens.
marknonsense1 1:06 AM - 12 May, 2009
Quote:
I think it's really cheesy and cheap to sell ad time during your gig. If I owned a bar, I wouldn't want that either; it looks desperate.



Man you're crazy. If your ads are cheap or for wak shit then maybe. I would do ads for things I have/used/drink but then (I have/used/drink all the good shit) ; )
Jordan Laws 8:18 AM - 18 May, 2009
Quote:
Aaron I've to (2) DJM909 (1) DJM707 (1) DJM3000 (2) CDJ1000MK3 (6) DVDJ1000s and....for sale. what do you need?



oo man your selling all your gear, I'm glad you took my advice and decided not to bl*w people on the 405!!! ha. you feel the quake?
Kris P. 2:54 PM - 18 May, 2009
Ya. I was at a EDM club last night! It shook for 2 seconds, people just kept dancing lol.

Dude I have soooooooo much gear. None of that stuff will be missed. Have you seem how many HDJ-2000 I have?
www.n-effect.com
Kris P. 2:56 PM - 18 May, 2009
Oh wait, heres so more gear.....
www.n-effect.com
a-swift 4:37 PM - 18 May, 2009
I just cleared out about 50% of my gear! Right after that, I lost a sub at a gig and now I have no spare backup subs to use! Classic.
Charlie Five 4:41 PM - 18 May, 2009
I hate BYOG (G as in gear) gigs...

My Saturday night only has CDJ's and no monitor so I have to lug that shit in every week.
Kris P. 5:02 PM - 18 May, 2009
BYOG gigs is where you make the $$$.
Charlie Five 5:56 PM - 18 May, 2009
True...Club gigs I mean though.
Kris P. 6:10 PM - 18 May, 2009
Ya bringing gear to clubs suck. I fedex my stuff 50% of the time. I never travel with gear on planes.
marknonsense1 6:30 PM - 18 May, 2009
Kris P do you own or work for N-Effect?
Culprit 7:15 PM - 18 May, 2009
damn kris p, u guys are doin major shit, reminds me of the pegleg gigs i do
Kris P. 8:33 PM - 18 May, 2009
Quote:
Kris P do you own or work for N-Effect?


I started the company in 1992.
Kris P. 8:35 PM - 18 May, 2009
Here is some corporate stuff....
www.n-effect.com
theGeenius 11:11 PM - 18 May, 2009
Honestly..did we NOT see any of this comin'??? i'm an old school head that fell in love with the idea of not havin' to carry crates...and that's where i thought it ended...Serato allowed me to keep the integrity of what spinnin' was all about..Record Selection, Pacing a party..and Rockin' the fuckin' house...Knew it wasn't gonna stay there once i started seein' cats askin why Serato doesn't beat match and have effects and feed my kids and all that..LOL so HERE we are...rockin' videos..which i think is A TRULY amazing technology ...But. downside..undercutters...wavies...cats that got into this game 2 months ago and who's idea of a Classic is somethin' from 1997..Waltzin' into clubs with an ipod a mac and an email list full of myspace and facebook chicks...able to get Money out these know nothin' promoters just on spiked hair and headphones that match their shirts ...Unreal..call it bitter...i just think it's ASS that promoters can't see or CHOOSE not to see the difference a Quality dj/vj makes at their spot..
VJ Justin Allen 11:33 PM - 18 May, 2009
The reason is this...Promoters have many places that they can go into around a city. They can try a cheap DJ here, promote for that type of crowd there. Play up to teh owners that they can bring a crowd, and the owner thinks, wow a crowd with no work or sweat on my part.

Where the owners are screwing up is that they have invested hundreds of thousands of dollars to build their place and then hire, or get for free, a promoter who has zero vested interested in making his club successful. The promoter is all about himself. Period.

And we all know that quality DJ's that completely understand this business are few and far between, especially now. We just need to cut through the bullshit and inform and educate that owner about the value that you can bring.
Culprit 12:52 AM - 19 May, 2009
"its who you know, not what you know"

This is totally the dj game right now.
a-swift 12:58 AM - 19 May, 2009
I've now got the $200 DJs knockin on the door at my regular spot. Even worse, FREE DJs offering to work for free to the owner of my spot. Now I don't make a million bucks there but I make a lot more than ZERO so I'd be pretty pissed if these undercutters got in there.

I would send all my friends there and have them constantly do shit like request whitney houston and abba and dance hyphy style no matter what he played.
marknonsense1 2:01 AM - 19 May, 2009
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damn kris p, u guys are doin major shit, reminds me of the pegleg gigs i do


Hows pegleg? They offer some cool stuff. I had a school ask me if I could do some of the themes and what not. . . I don't know where they buy that shit from tho. I would think they have to make that stuff on their own but who knows.
Culprit 2:30 AM - 19 May, 2009
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Quote:
damn kris p, u guys are doin major shit, reminds me of the pegleg gigs i do


Hows pegleg? They offer some cool stuff. I had a school ask me if I could do some of the themes and what not. . . I don't know where they buy that shit from tho. I would think they have to make that stuff on their own but who knows.


He's major man. I work with a team of people (not me directly). We provide the trussing, sound, and lighting. He has other guys bring in the props, chairs, couches and tables. He can do alot of the events himself, but he gets so much work he has to outsource it to his trusted peeps.

I have no idea where he gets his props from. He has video games, couches, tables.. pretty much everything.
Culprit 2:30 AM - 19 May, 2009
*meant to say (not him directly).
marknonsense1 4:30 AM - 19 May, 2009
Once I'm done buying hopefully I'll be able to keep him out of my market. . . I heard they/he undercuts but I own all my shit so I got nothing to lose. . . lol
Culprit 4:43 AM - 19 May, 2009
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Once I'm done buying hopefully I'll be able to keep him out of my market. . . I heard they/he undercuts but I own all my shit so I got nothing to lose. . . lol


I own all my equipment as well. I am firm on my pricing, and wont budge. I recently quoted a small high school gig w/ a partner of mine, and some dj from power106 flava unit undercut us by $300. Real shady shit right now, but im not budging on price cuz you get what you pay for in the end.
marknonsense1 5:27 AM - 19 May, 2009
Ya that's true. . . I'm set on some prices but I think as long as it's over 1500 I'm good and I'll battle it out to win. I want DJ full time so got do what it takes.
a-swift 6:14 AM - 19 May, 2009
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Quote:
Once I'm done buying hopefully I'll be able to keep him out of my market. . . I heard they/he undercuts but I own all my shit so I got nothing to lose. . . lol


I own all my equipment as well. I am firm on my pricing, and wont budge. I recently quoted a small high school gig w/ a partner of mine, and some dj from power106 flava unit undercut us by $300. Real shady shit right now, but im not budging on price cuz you get what you pay for in the end.


i'm not budging on my price either. if you want me to come to your club, you better have $100 for me. the price is firm. no haggling please. $100 or i don't show up.
marknonsense1 6:43 AM - 19 May, 2009
Quote:
Quote:
Quote:
Once I'm done buying hopefully I'll be able to keep him out of my market. . . I heard they/he undercuts but I own all my shit so I got nothing to lose. . . lol


I own all my equipment as well. I am firm on my pricing, and wont budge. I recently quoted a small high school gig w/ a partner of mine, and some dj from power106 flava unit undercut us by $300. Real shady shit right now, but im not budging on price cuz you get what you pay for in the end.


i'm not budging on my price either. if you want me to come to your club, you better have $100 for me. the price is firm. no haggling please. $100 or i don't show up.


lol. . . Really if I were a club owner I wouldn't pay my DJ over $200. Why? I would tell him look bitch I pay for this whole club and all you do is know some remixers who give you shit for free so do it or roll. I used to think Djs should get more but if you're not bringing gear, Why? I would love to do clubs! I ever even tried cause I know they wouldn't pay me what I want but if I ever feel like doing one, I'd just be a guest DJ. I think theres more to the club thing then most DJs see.

Now if you're a big name/remixer/something like that then I would pay/see why you'd want more but other then that buy a club if you want to get paid then see how hard it is. . .
Culprit 2:13 PM - 19 May, 2009
I charge between $125 - $150 extra to bring two turntables/cdj, one wired microphone and my ttm57sl w/ active 12" monitor, and I have been told that's pretty reasonable. I get alone really good w/ the club owners I deal with, and other djs as long as they dont give me the whole ego attitude.
Culprit 2:14 PM - 19 May, 2009
*along
DJ-Phat-AL 2:36 PM - 19 May, 2009
wow... that's cheap for video...


so it's your fault???


kidding...





I wish the madness would stop but it won't.
Hopefully it will get so bad that everyone will stop DJ-ing and leave a select few really TALENTED DJ's to actually get paid for what we are worth.



and by the way.. I know the money is out there... DJ AM signed up with the Palms here in Vegas for $2 mil.. he get's $20,000 for THREE hours of DJ-ing every friday night.
Charlie Five 2:55 PM - 19 May, 2009
My min for a small venue (not a club) was $500-$600 a year or two ago and I had to go down to $300 just secure a few spots lately. These are NON Video places though looking to get into video in the very near future so I may be able to squeeze them for a few more bucks...

I guess 300 (cash) isn't thattttt bad, for a place that is most likely doing less than 10K but and for a 3-3 1/2 hour set, free drinks for myself and friends...but I feel that I'm adding to the problem by even accepting. (on a side note they pay their other guys 100 less).

Larger venues (clubs) I was at a min of 1K last year (700 for friends) and that shit took a nose dive quick once promoters and 200 dollar DJ's got involved.

(Lucky I got a good day job! $$$)
Culprit 3:05 PM - 19 May, 2009
no, $125-$150 extra for equipment. did you read the whole thing?
marknonsense1 4:03 PM - 19 May, 2009
I got that Culprit. . . I think that's fair for a coffin/ one speaker plus the pay for djin.
DJ-Phat-AL 3:27 AM - 20 May, 2009
ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh... I didn't read the EXTRA part... sorry..


I was thinking that was wayyyy tooo cheap for video
Culprit 7:01 PM - 20 May, 2009
=]
Culprit 7:53 PM - 28 May, 2009
add me 2 the list.. just got the phone call today, one of my residencies does not need my assistance this Saturday.
VJ Justin Allen 8:09 PM - 28 May, 2009
Sucks. You going to head in there and see who grabbed it?
Culprit 8:19 PM - 28 May, 2009
Quote:
Sucks. You going to head in there and see who grabbed it?


Nah i know the djs there and the one replacing me (possibly). I get paid through the owner, not the promoter, and the promoter is bringing in his own djs, so i think they just said fuck it we need to save on over head. The owner keeps telling me to stop being a little bitch and roll through anyways to see what happens without my help, but i dunno. Ive known him and the family for like 2+ years now, and we have a good relationship, but i do think the promoter has it out for me, but i aint too sure.
dj hes 8:40 PM - 28 May, 2009
I know everyone says they wont budge on their prices, but be honest, really you wont budge?? I mean, I have picked up some gigs here and there, they are for charity frat parties, then dont even make $300 to pay me from the event. maybe like 200pp show up, and its not packed out and no bar. so is $300 too cheap? yeah for the video show I am providing, it is. but in the economy, and the location? no its actually pretty high, they could get another DJ to do it for $150.

So here is where it gets difficult, do you pass of a gig that is under what you want, say $250, but because you are able to do that for them, you can get 5 more gigs for other frats and future gigs with with the current frat, do you lower your price? I mean, if I have the equipment, I have the dates available, and I get to promote my Video set in a town where NO ONE else has it to an all ages crowd, so when they turn 21 they will already have heard of me, do I do it?

Hell Yes I do it! Thats over $1000 more that I would have in my pocket and possible other opportunities as well.

I would rather stay booked if I can than to sit on all my gear and not use it even if it is for $200 and not more, just my opinion.
dj hes 8:42 PM - 28 May, 2009
granted, I work in a small college town with maybe 5 djs, and 10 aspiring djs, not in big city where there is a TON of competition.
DJ-Phat-AL 8:50 PM - 28 May, 2009
makes me want to move back to a small town... I live in Vegas where EVERYBODY is a DJ... completely flooded market here and most of them suck ass... but they have the latest fashion attire on and "know" the right people.

I have seen so-called celebrity DJ's come in town and blow chunks.... and get PAID!

I give up.


gonna find a place that isn't on the map and be that town's DJ God... population=200... gotta have customers ;-)
Charlie Five 8:55 PM - 28 May, 2009
Yeah same here...Chicago everyone is a DJ.

Hes you're right though 1 1/2 years ago $500 was my min ($700, and 1K and up). I used to not even begin to evaluate unless it was over 4. Now my Saturday gig I'm only getting $300. It's only audio though (and a small joint) but shit...times have changed.

Day job is clankin though!
dj hes 9:02 PM - 28 May, 2009
Quote:
Yeah same here...Chicago everyone is a DJ.

Hes you're right though 1 1/2 years ago $500 was my min ($700, and 1K and up). I used to not even begin to evaluate unless it was over 4. Now my Saturday gig I'm only getting $300. It's only audio though (and a small joint) but shit...times have changed.

Day job is clankin though!


I hear that, I thought I would be able to charge more when I started doign video, and really it jsut gives me an extra edge over non video gigs, not making much extra from it but my expenses have gone up over 7k!

Luckily i still have a weekly club spot and a day job...!
Funkytownstopsix 11:02 PM - 28 May, 2009
I somewhat agree wit hes although it's so hard to budge off what you know your worth. I'm stuck in worlds inside of worlds. I am in a motorcycle club and let's just say in the motorcycle world there is a party every weekend given by some club. Well I am worth min $500 but there are other dj's in MC world that charge like 150 and less. In the regular world I got cut for a $75 dj at a house party(he was pretty good too) no video but how could I compete with that.

So like hes said I can drop my price and get more gigs and I really could as I am the only one that is doing video in the MC world and I would be booked for months. Yet do I really want to sweat and work that hard for 200. I think not but if that was a source of income I depended on to make ends meet I would have to say I would.

Glad I do more weddings than anything they still pay well even though these fly by night thieving fuck dj's are always trying to steal my biz. I am lucky in the fact that Djing doesn't pay my bills and it's just pocket money for me to buy more dj stuff, I Love doing it but man it's getting hard out there for a pimp.
Henry GQ 2:04 AM - 29 May, 2009
motorcycle world ?
a-swift 4:36 AM - 29 May, 2009
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I regards to Phat Al's post. My friend moved to a small town in Nebraska last year and he is the ONLY DJ in the whole town (and probly the next town too) so he's raking in pretty much anything that requires a DJ lol. But then again it sucks to live in a town that small with nothing to do. Oh and they like a LOT of country.


Classic!
Henry GQ 6:01 AM - 29 May, 2009
ugh... country ? i will pass.
Funkytownstopsix 1:15 PM - 29 May, 2009
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motorcycle world ?
You have to ride a motorcyle and wear colors to understand GQ. It is a world within it's self trust me. Everyday is a party....As a Dj you would love it until u went to a party with a suck ass dj.
VJ Justin Allen 1:25 PM - 29 May, 2009
How bad ass would you have to be in order to DJ one of those? Someone comes up to ask for a song, can you ever say no?
a-swift 3:32 PM - 29 May, 2009
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ugh... country ? i will pass.


yeah man, dude used to be in our DJ crew when he was in so cal. A few months after moving to nebraska he hit me up and asked me where to get country videos,.. i was like,.. what?

if you knew what kind of music this dude used to play in the so cal spots, this would be even funnier.
Henry GQ 3:38 PM - 29 May, 2009
ahaha. im sure, i cant do country... i dont care how hot the girls are. f that!
thats not me, never will be me.. i dont mind doing one or two a night if its soemthing that will flip shit, but not an all niter
Funkytownstopsix 4:04 PM - 29 May, 2009
Allen you been watching too much history channel or gangland. MC clubs get a bad rap....More than half my club is police and feds so the worst that could happen to you is that you go to jail.. On the real they are to busy partying to ask you for request and to be honest only the chicks request songs..I have done about 10 parties for MC clubs with not one issue.
lvmez 4:15 PM - 29 May, 2009
i met a dj who travels from denver to nebraska every weekend to do video gigs. he said the money is great. he also plays top40 and hip-hop.