How to play a open format DJ set

If you’re looking to get into open format DJing, then this blog post is for you. We’ll be discussing everything from open format music selection to mixing techniques. Let’s get started!

Be a versatile DJ who can play different genres all in one set

Open format is a type of set that allows the DJ to play a wide range of music genres in one set. This can include anything from Dancehall to Hip Hop to R&B to Amapiano.

The key to being a successful open format DJ is versatility. You need to be able to read a crowd and play music that will keep them engaged and dancing all night long. It’s also important to have a good knowledge of all the different genres you’ll be playing so you can mix them together seamlessly.

Check out this ‘Gumbo’ set by one of the absolute masters of Djing, DJ Jazzy Jeff

If you’re thinking about becoming an open format DJ, or if you’re just looking to add some variety to your sets, here are some tips on how to get started:

1. Build a diverse music collection. This is the most important step in being an open format DJ. You need to have a wide range of music genres in your collection so you can play whatever the crowd wants to hear. If you’re lacking in certain genres, don’t be afraid to buy new tracks.

2. Get familiar with all the songs in your collection. This step is crucial if you want to be able to mix different genres together seamlessly. Listen to each song carefully and identify its key elements, such as the tempo, rhythm, and melody. This will make it easier for you to find matching tracks when you’re mixing.

3. Practice mixing different genres together. Once you have a good understanding of all the songs in your collection, it’s time to start practicing mixing them together. Start with two similar tracks and gradually work your way up to more disparate genres. Pay attention to how the different tracks sound when they’re mixed together and try to create seamless transitions between them.

4. Be prepared for anything. When you’re playing an open format set, anything can happen –– so it’s important that you be prepared for anything that comes your way. If someone requests a song that you don’t have, don’t panic! See it as an opportunity to get creative and play a similiar track from your collection.

5. Have fun! Remember, the most important thing is that you enjoy yourself and have fun while you’re playing! If you’re having fun, chances are good that your crowd will too

How to transition from one genre to another in the mix

A good transition can make or break a DJ set. If done properly, it can take the listener on a journey through different  genres of music and keep them engaged the whole way through. Here are some tips on how to make those seamless transitions pop!

1. Use a good quality DJ controller: With a proper controller,you can easily change the tempo, pitch, and other parameters of your music, use the FX and other tools on your mixer to make creative transitions from one genre to the other .

2. Match the BPM: One of the most important things to think about when transitioning between genres is the BPM (beats per minute). You want to make sure that the BPM of the two tracks you’re mixing are close enough so that the transition is seamless and doesn’t sound jarring.

3. Use drops: This works best with dance music (House, Techno, Garage, DnB etc) where most tracks have a beatless ‘drop usually midway that can be used for creative transitioning’.

4. Be creative: Ultimately, the best way to become better at mixing different genres together is to experiment and be creative with it.

Playing for different crowds

When playing an open format DJ set, it is important to be aware of the different types of crowds you may encounter and to adjust your music selection and style accordingly. Here are some tips on how to play for different types of crowds:

Club: When playing in a club, it is important to keep the energy level high and maintain a steady dance beat. You should also be aware of the acoustics of the room and adjust your EQ accordingly. It is also important to read the crowd and take requests when appropriate.

Festival: When playing at a festival, it is important to be aware of the type of crowd that is typically in attendance. For example, if it is a Hip Hop crowd, you should focus on playing that type of music. You should also be aware of the acoustics of the stage and sound system and make sure your music is loud enough to be heard over the noise of the crowd. Additionally, it is important to create an energetic atmosphere by adding similiar genres of music into your set to create variety.

Want to learn how to DJ? Check out the DJ courses available here at On The Rise DJ Academy for beginners and seasoned pros alike!