Responsibilities as a DJ?

Obviously I am talking about a LONG time ago, but during my residency years in 5-start hotels, we would open at 21:00, but I would hardly ever start playing before 23:00 on the busy nights. I’d be walking around the place, bonding with the regulars, introducing people to each other and stuff like that. The club management loved it, because it created a strong “we” feeling amongst the crowd. During these first two hours people would just sit or stand around catching up with their friends on the previous week an while doing that, drink! (not unimportant in any place with a wet bar).

Once the night got underway (23:00 onwards) I would not involve myself with stuff like drunk customers, crying women, etx. Then I would remain the DJ behind the turntables (told ya it was long ago :-)) and only deal with requests of people coming up to me. I would not leave my post for anything except a quick toiletbreak.

At mobile events, especially weddings, I will limit myself to interacting with the person handling the programming/logistics to make sure the right things happens at the right time. I will shake hands/congratulate the happy couple and that would very much be it.

In effect, agreeing with Terry, it depends and you will have go with your own judgement. I would/will spend time and effort if it helps my name, that of the venue or organiser/promoter and/or increases (repeat) business to the place. I would/will not play cupid, bouncer or host (at least not once I got started playing seriously).

Wish you luck with figuring this one out as your career progresses.

Greetinx,
C.

It is a bit of a grey area.. I mostly spin at clubs and they get a lot of regulars who often have drama. Crying girls, people waaaay to drunk passed out in the corner, vomit on the dance floor, fights, you name it! It is a party scene after all and some people get a bit too out of control. Staying professional is the best course to take. Don’t feel like it is your duty to babysit those who cannot hold their liquor (unless they are anywhere within a 20 foot radius of my DJ gear)! On the other hand, I love the idea of networking with the people at the party you are playing at. I think it’s important to meet and greet people as it gets your name out there and people will recognize you behind the decks and be more willing to support you in your DJ career.

Experience will tell you when you should step in and when you shouldn’t. Best of luck to you!