Why Do You Want To Be A Mobile DJ? There are a number of factors that can and should influence your decision, some you may not have considered, so let’s have a look at them and how that might work in practice.
Money
Mobile DJing can be well paid, a good hourly rate and per-gig amount once you’re established. Just remember everybody has to start somewhere – some people do their first gig or so for free, or at a reduced rate to get the experience. Once you get your confidence you can charge a more ‘qualified’ price – for example, I charge a minimum of £50 ($65) per hour for a 5-hour gig, more per hour after midnight, and I’ll charge more for bigger setups, like add-ons.
You also have to consider how much you ‘need’ to make. Is it to replace your full or part-time job, or more of a paid hobby? Can you afford to wait until you can make it full-time?
Then there’s the equipment you’ll need. Mobile DJs supply their own equipment; Playout system, Sound System and Lighting.
My price is about right for the area I live in and based upon what other local DJs charge. You never want to underprice once you’re established. My favourite quote is ‘Mate’s rates don’t pay the bills’ – a lot of gigs I get are through friends, friends of friends, family etc. If you’re the only DJ they know, you’ll get booked and recommended just because you’re in the industry, not necessarily because of your talent. Whatever the reason, earn what you’re worth, otherwise they will take advantage of you. Just make sure you carry a handful of business cards wherever you go.
Passion
If you have a passion for music and think you just wanna earn money for doing what you love, think about how this will be in reality. One of the reasons I didn’t become a mobile DJ when I was 18 was because I was fixed on playing the music I liked. Think about what kind of music genre you will be expected to play for a 21st or 60th birthday party, a wedding, a christening. I now have a better appreciation for all types of music (within reason) so I feel happier accepting gigs for all types of events. Do it for the wrong reasons and it will feel more like a job than a paid hobby.
Performing
Some people love the idea of being the DJ that stands in front of a huge crowd, shouting on the mic and thrusting their hands in the air. A mobile DJ is not quite like that – you will play all types of gigs.
You might play to a room of 70 people in a village hall, half of whom don’t even dance however good you are. Whereas, club DJs are more likely to play to a larger, younger crowd, who are there to dance, to a certain genre. Whatever type of DJ you choose to be, you will need a large music collection.
Late Nights
Unless you plan to do children’s parties, the chances are you will be playing from 7 pm until midnight, or thereabouts. I arrive at least an hour beforehand to set up and am often there for 30-45 minutes afterwards packing down. Add the travel each way and you are doing a good 8+ hours on a Friday or Saturday night while your friends are out enjoying themselves. I still enjoy it enough to do it, but it’s not all fun if you need to be working every weekend year-round.
Friends and Family
If you know someone who is a mobile DJ, ask them these questions, find out what it’s like. Better still, ask if you can join them at a gig or two to see for yourself before you commit. You could even get paid to be their roadie – help them carry their equipment, set up and pack down.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why do you want to be a DJ?
Whether a Mobile DJ or a Club DJ, standing in front of a crowd playing music, being their main form of entertainment is a huge thrill.
Ask yourself that question though, and consider what it entails, how you would get started and what equipment you need. Think of the late nights every weekend, while all your friends are out enjoying themselves.
How do you become a mobile DJ?
A Mobile DJ is a DJ that provides the whole setup for the event. You usually have to find your own work, promote your services on social media and get bookings.
You will need;
- DJ Controller
- Laptop
- Speakers
- Lights
- Headphones
- Microphone
Read: How to start a Mobile DJ business
What is the job of a mobile DJ?
A Mobile DJ (Disc Jockey) is booked to play gigs at private events, from birthday parties and weddings to christenings and bat mitzvahs.
They provide their own DJ equipment and usually play in hired venues like local halls, hotels and conference rooms.
The Mobile DJ has their own music and often makes a playlist based on the client’s taste. They will usually take requests from guests too.
What skills do you need to be a DJ?
To be a good DJ, you should have at least some of the following skills;
- An interest in music
- Sense of timing
- Ability to mix
- Good personal skills
- Patience
- Business sense
Conclusion
Now that we have given you some things to consider when you ask why do you want to be a mobile DJ, hopefully, you can start the journey from beginner to professional – if you haven’t already.
We have a number of great guides and mobile DJ advice to get you started;
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