What is an Open Format DJ?

An open-format DJ is a versatile performer who blends tracks from multiple genres and styles to create a dynamic and engaging set. These DJs are known for their ability to read a crowd and seamlessly transition between different types of music, keeping the energy high and the dance floor packed. In this article, we’ll explore what it means to be an open-format DJ, the skills and equipment needed to excel in this field, and how to get started on your journey to becoming a successful open-format DJ.

What is an Open Format DJ?

An open-format DJ is a DJ who plays music from a wide variety of genres, rather than specializing in one particular style. Unlike a house DJ, for example, who would typically play only house music, an open-format DJ might play hip-hop, rock, pop, and more, all in one set.

Most Mobile DJs are open-format, as they tend to play a wide range of music for the variety of events they get booked for.

Club DJs, on the other hand, are more likely to have a speciality. They may get booked for their specific area of expertise, or they could have a residency at a club where the crowd expects one type of music on a particular night.

The History of Open Format DJing

Open-format DJing has been around for decades, although it wasn’t always known by that name. In the early days of hip-hop, DJs like Kool Herc would play a wide variety of music at block parties, blending together funk, soul, and even rock records to create a unique sound that would come to define the genre. Later, DJs like Grandmaster Flash and Afrika Bambaataa would refine this style, incorporating turntablism techniques like scratching and beat juggling to create even more dynamic sets.

As technology advanced and digital music became more prevalent, open-format DJing evolved as well. With access to a broader variety of music, DJs could now create sets that spanned multiple genres and eras, blending together classic tracks with contemporary hits to keep the dancefloor moving.

Skills Required to Become an Open Format DJ

To become an open format DJ, you’ll need a strong foundation in DJing basics like beatmatching and mixing. However, you’ll also need to have a deep knowledge of music across a wide variety of genres, as well as the ability to read a crowd and adjust your set on the fly. Other important skills for open-format DJs include:

• Advanced mixing techniques like blending and EQing
• Turntablism skills like scratching and beat juggling
• A strong sense of musicality and rhythm
• The ability to create unique and engaging sets

Getting Started as an Open Format DJ

If you’re interested in becoming an open-format DJ, the first step is to build up your skills as a DJ. This means learning the basics of beatmatching and mixing and studying the music you want to play. You’ll also need to invest in the right equipment – a high-quality DJ controller or mixer, a good set of headphones, and a collection of music spanning multiple genres.

It is important to understand that being open-format does not mean just playing all genres randomly throughout your set. It takes skill and discipline to almost journey through your chosen genres. Think about the general BPM of certain types of music and how you might transition through the genres you plan to play in the set – going from the lowest to the highest BPM, for example.

• House: 120-130 BPM
• Techno: 120-140 BPM
• Trance: 130-160 BPM
• Dubstep: 130-145 BPM
• Drum and Bass: 160-180 BPM
• Hip Hop: 85-105 BPM
• R&B: 60-80 BPM
• Pop: 100-130 BPM

Once you’ve built up your skills and acquired the necessary equipment, the next step is to start playing gigs. Look for opportunities to play at local clubs or parties, and don’t be afraid to reach out to promoters or other DJs to make connections. As you build up your reputation and skills, you’ll find more and more opportunities to play open-format sets.

Read Next: Beginners Guide to DJ Equipment

Conclusion

Open format DJing is an exciting and dynamic field, allowing DJs to create sets that span multiple genres and eras. To become an open-format DJ, you’ll need a good overall knowledge of music, strong DJing skills, and the ability to read a crowd and adjust your set on the fly. With the right training, equipment, and opportunities, anyone can become an open-format DJ and take their DJing skills to the next level, entertaining crowds with diverse and engaging sets that keep the party going all night long.

FAQs

1. Can anyone become an open-format DJ?

Yes, anyone can become an open-format DJ with the right training, equipment, and opportunities.

2. Do I need to specialize in one genre to become a successful DJ?

No, open-format DJs play music from a wide variety of genres, so it’s not necessary to specialize in one particular style.

3. What kind of equipment do I need to become an open-format DJ?

You’ll need a high-quality DJ controller or mixer, a good set of headphones, and a collection of music spanning multiple genres.

4. Is it important to be able to read a crowd as an open-format DJ?

Yes, reading a crowd is crucial for open-format DJs, as it allows them to adjust their sets on the fly and keep the party going.

5. What are some good ways to get started as an open-format DJ?

Look for opportunities to play at local clubs or parties, and don’t be afraid to reach out to promoters or other DJs to make connections. Building up your reputation and skills takes time, but with dedication and hard work, anyone can become a successful open-format DJ.