Start with reading the series on how to succeed as a DJ:
http://www.digitaldjtips.com/2011/03/how-to-succeed-at-djing-part-1-what-type-of-dj-do-you-want-to-be/
I think the top 40 spots can be “worth it” if you haven’t learned how to read a crowd and play to a crowd. Too many DJs dream of being the big superstar headliner playing the “underground” to a receptive audience, but that takes time and effort to earn that.
You need to start small and find outlets to play for the sheer happiness of it. Seek out online shows or college radio or other local outlets like that to play. Be a regular playing on them, and thus those guys might be tossing your name to promoters or whoever. Plus you’ll get noticed and can slowly build a fan base. Not every DJ outlet requires you being in a booth at a venue.
In the series, I mentioned how you can’t be a hermit and get gigs. In my book this holds true unless you’re producing loads of music and are being noticed for it. Regardless, you should trek out ever week someplace and support the scene. Get to know the locals, etc. You might even want to think weeknight, when the underground “all about the music” events happen. It’s easier to break into that than a weekend event.
Finally, look into local promoters or especially rave promoters. Volunteer to help them promote and learn the business. Read the series on promoting events to learn from this:
http://www.digitaldjtips.com/2011/09/how-to-promote-events-throw-your-own-parties-part-1/
I’ve seen many in Central and Southern Illinois go bigger in the rave scene. Join up this Facebook page and follow up on some of the promoters and such. It could be an entry way into some of the Illinois rave scene.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/IntergruvNetworks/
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