Welcome back to Off The Record, the ultimate DJ podcast by Crossfader! In this packed episode, we kick things off with stories from Parklife Festival 2025 -festival sets, sound system secrets, and what makes a great live DJ performance.
Breaking that first follower/subscriber barrier can be the toughest part of being a beginner DJ. But don't worry, we have put together an easy step-by-step guide for you to follow.Topics covered:➡️ How to grow your first 10,000 fans➡️ What kind of content actually works➡️ Why storytelling builds superfans➡️ Advice for introverted artists➡️ Instagram vs TikTok vs YouTube Shorts➡️ Real examples from Crossfader, Toolroom Academy, and top DJs➡️ Why one viral post isn’t enough
🎧 Join Crossfader for FREE: https://bit.ly/4jERmne From Average to Excellent: What Makes a Great DJ?Feeling stuck as “just an average DJ”? This episode is your wake-up call. We break down the real reasons DJs struggle, how to redefine success, and 5 practical ways to level up your skills, confidence, and community. Timestamps: 00:00: How to be an excellent DJ 03:04:Inside Ibiza's new superclub 06:08: Is it worth the hype? 09:12: Reddit DJ feels "just average" 12:16: What really defines a DJ 15:...
Off the Record: Building a DJ Career with AI (The Synth Boys Project) In this special episode of Off the Record , the Crossfader team puts AI to the test - tasking a custom-built GPT with launching a brand-new DJ career from scratch. Meet The Synth Boys , a fictional DJ duo whose journey becomes a roadmap for real aspiring artists. Along the way, we dive deep into: Crafting a compelling brand identity as a DJ Building a business model that actually makes money Throwing your own events to gain tr...
🎧 Off the Record: How to Follow a Bad Headliner + Calvin Harris vs Chicane Beef In this week’s episode, the Crossfader crew dives into one of the trickiest DJ scenarios: how to take over the decks after a bad headliner—or a DJ who just doesn’t match the vibe. Expect industry insights, real-life stories, and tips every DJ should know. We also get into: The Calvin Harris vs. Chicane controversy over a claimed piano riff copy Legendary sample thefts and famous legal cases (Ed Sheeran, Blurred Line...
How to Get Paid as a DJ (and Avoid Toxic Promoters) In this episode of Off the Record , we're getting real about one of the most frustrating parts of DJ life: getting paid . From shady promoters to late-night payment excuses, we share real-life stories, hard-earned lessons , and six essential strategies to protect your time, value, and income as a DJ. 💬 We also dive into: The hilarious James Hype vs. Deadmau5 tech beef Reddit drama on late payments and shady bookings What to do when you're owed...
👉 Join Crossfader for free and start your DJ journey today: https://bit.ly/4jERmne In this special episode of Off the Record , we're coming to you from the stunning Hyde Hotel in Ibiza during the International Music Summit (IMS). We dive deep into the 2024 IMS Industry Report, breaking down key insights on the rise of genres like Drum & Bass and Afro House, the SoundCloud resurgence, and why building your own DJ community is more important than ever. We also spotlight female representat...
This week on Off The Record, we’re joined by the unstoppable force that is Will Clarke — Grammy-nominated DJ, producer, and host of one of the most honest podcasts in dance music. From DJing at a caravan park at age 9 to playing Coachella, Will shares his unfiltered journey — the wins, the burnout, the broken promises from labels, and why being a DJ today is more complex than ever. 🔥 We talk: Why he nearly quit music altogether The truth about labels and releases Building a caree...
Apple Music has officially entered the DJ game – and it’s changing everything. In this episode, we dive into the groundbreaking integration of Apple Music with top DJ platforms like Serato, rekordbox, Engine DJ, and Algoriddim. What does this mean for DJs at all levels? Is this the future of music discovery and performance, or are there risks to relying on streaming in live settings? We break down: ✅ How DJs can now access over 100 million songs directly in their software ✅ Apple Music’s bold co...
In this raw and unfiltered episode of the Off The Record DJ Podcast , Chapter & Verse returns to share the brutal realities of the DJ industry. From fighting for festival slots at Tomorrowland and Creamfields to dealing with gatekeeping, industry politics, and endless rejections , he reveals how hard it really is to make it as a DJ —and why most fail. We dive deep into: ✅ Why fanbase growth beats production talent in 2024 ✅ The toxic snobbery in underground dance music 🤯 ✅ How to actually g...
Check out the complete DJ Package: https://wearecrossfader.co.uk/complete-dj/In this episode, Jamie & Lawrence talk about the reasons why DJs get stuck and discuss in detail how to break through! Reddit drama is back with a CONTROVERSIAL story of a DJ 'faking it' until he made it.Plus we talk about the new Mixed in key 11 pro!
In this ep, we speak to Mixcloud CEO Nico Perez about how Mixcloud can help you get gigs and earn money. Learn more about the opportunities Mixcloud offers for DJs and artists!Website & DJ Courses🚨 For 20% Off, Use Code: 20OFFTHERECORD at https://wearecrossfader.co.ukTimestamps:00:00 Intro – Guest: Nico Perez01:00 The DJ creator economy02:30 Mixcloud’s role in DJing04:15 Key features of Mixcloud06:20 Solving copyright issues08:10 Community and engagement tools10:30 Monetization for DJs12:...
Our new mix channel : https://www.youtube.com/@OfficeHours_Crossfader This week, we give you a step-by-step plan on how to market yourself as a DJ. Although it takes consistency, if you apply this strategy - you will grow an audience much sooner than you think. Website & DJ Courses🚨 For 20% Off, Use Code: 20OFFTHERECORD at https://wearecrossfader.co.uk
We speak to Sabion Paid, who has risen through the ranks quickly!From learning to DJ with Crossfader to supporting James Hype, this is a story about persistence and taking opportunities.Follow Sabion: https://www.instagram.com/sabionpaid/🚨 Website & DJ Courses🚨 For 20% Off, Use Code: 20OFFTHERECORD at https://wearecrossfader.co.uk Timestamps 00:00 Intro – Meeting Sabian on tour 01:10 How Sabian discovered DJing 02:45 Learning DJing through Crossfader 05:00 First controller and early stru...
Join us for an exclusive deep dive into the career of R3WIRE – DJ, producer, and label manager at Stereohype. From his early days as a resident DJ to dominating the decks on party islands across the world, R3WIRE shares how he built his career and developed his signature high-energy style. We explore his transition into working with James Hype, how he became label manager of Stereohype, and what it takes to get your track signed to a major label. Aspiring producers, take notes! R3WIRE breaks dow...
In this episode of Off The Record, we sit down with DJ Andy Purnell to discuss his journey from club residencies to touring the world with top artists. Andy shares insights on building a DJ career, working with brands like NBA and Gumball 3000, and adapting in the ever-changing DJ landscape. He also dives into his viral DJ content, the power of networking, and his experience as a tour DJ for Central Cee. Plus, we talk about his latest role in the legendary Red Bull Culture Clash. Follow Andy Pur...
The number one question DJs are asking right now is "How Can I Get More Gigs" this year! We set out a full-proof strategy to help you get there. Discord 🚨Website & DJ Courses🚨 For 20% Off, Use Code: 20OFFTHERECORD at https://wearecrossfader.co.uk Timestamps : 00:00 We Are Back 01:40 Namm 05:44 How To Get More Gigs 23:29 Getting New Equipment 26:12 DJing In Public 33:55 Announcement 36:50 Add To Playlist...
Get ready for a revolution in the DJ industry! We discuss how the DJ industry will change forever in 2025. Stay ahead of the game and find out what's in store for the future of DJing. We predict a big shift towards daytime events, community-led DJ creators, niche audiences, and the rise in modular hardware in DJ sets. 🚨Website & DJ Courses🚨 For 20% Off, Use Code: 20OFFTHERECORD at https://wearecrossfader.co.uk
You might have seen a million Spotify-wrapped posts this week! We thought we would do our take on the DJ Industry. Lawrence & Jamie take a look back at the big, newsworthy and controversial moments as well as the best and worst products that dropped this year. 🚨Website & DJ Courses🚨 For 20% Off, Use Code: 20OFFTHERECORD at https://wearecrossfader.co.uk
This week, we sat down with none other than James Hype , one of the most electrifying DJs and producers in the game. From sleeping on a studio floor to headlining massive festivals, James shares his raw, unfiltered journey to becoming a global sensation. 🌍 We dive deep into his humble beginnings as a resident DJ, the risks he took to leave residencies behind, and the smoke-and-mirrors strategy that skyrocketed his career. James also opens up about the challenges of staying relevant in a changin...
In this week's Off The Record DJ Podcast as we dive into the important topic of how DJs read the crowd and why it matters for a successful set. Learn why you should you listen to requests, not peak too early and research your gig before an event. BIG NEWS: Our BLACK FRIDAY sale is now Live! 50% Off All DJ Courses https://wearecrossfader.co.uk/black-friday-2024/
Are you ready for the future of DJing? We discuss the groundbreaking new tech that Djay Pro has released on Meta Quest! Watch our review: https://youtu.be/E0kp0e7oHTQ We also discuss DJ studio, how DJ equipment might evolve and why human interaction will explode. Win a DDJ GRV6 - https://bit.ly/3U8kx7o
With the news that nightclubs might be closed by 2029, many are wondering what's next for DJs. We'll explore the future of the DJ industry and what changes may be on the horizon. If you're a DJ we give you a glimpse into where DJing as going in the next few years and how you can stay ahead of the shift. Win a DDJ-FLX2 - https://bit.ly/3zN6q0B
We dive deep into the latest developments shaking up the DJ world. We kick things off with an overview of the episode, highlighting the significant update to rekordbox Stems that's been the buzz of the industry. We then shift gears to the much-anticipated release of the XDJ-AZ, breaking down its cutting-edge features and functionality, and discussing its implications for DJs and live performers. We also explore the introduction of a CDJ-3000 Style Controller - the DDJ-GRV6, detailing its key fea...
Join us as we dive into your biggest DJ questions! From organizing your music library and navigating copyright issues to setting rates for your first gigs and standing out as a DJ, we cover it all. Whether you're just starting out or looking to fine-tune your skills, this Q&A will help you tackle common DJ challenges and take your DJing to the next level As always, stick around to the end for some ADD TO PLAYLIST tunes! Discord: https://discord.gg/uxX2FkX9 🚨Website & DJ Courses🚨 For 20...
In today's episode we answer in depth the question of 'How can DJs grow their network' We go into details and give a five-step process with examples of how you can build your network for success, no matter what that means. Whether you want to get more gigs, connect with other DJs or get your foot into the industry, you will find something of value in this episode! 🚨Website & DJ Courses🚨 For 20% Off, Use Code: 20OFFTHERECORD at https://wearecrossfader.co.uk...
The boys are back and are discussing the myths that other people think DJs do. Stuff like, "All DJs produce music" "Anyone can be a DJ" and loads more. There is also a new way for PRO DJs to record their DJ sets. This new hardware and software is a game-changer. More info: https://wearecrossfader.co.uk/blog/density-the-best-way-to-record-your-dj-sets/ Watch the tutorial: https://youtu.be/OCJjpplf-8Q?si=tJ8Pr1jrYD43NlSs And of course we are back with ADD TO PLAYLIST to give you some fresh bangers...
Eve & Liv take over the mic to give you the most chaotic episode of the podcast you've ever heard. With the boys away, we thought it would be great to get an insight into Crossfader's engine room and let you get to know more about the team. A Big thanks to Eve & Liv for stepping in, even though they were super nervous about doing it. ❤️ 🚨Website & DJ Courses🚨 For 20% Off, Use Code: 20OFFTHERECORD at https://wearecrossfader.co.uk...
Our special guest today is ROB R Rob has blown up in the last 12 months and is on a mission to bring South Asian music to the world. His viral videos feature Rob DJing in the streets, mountains, and jungles of Sri Lanka and have amassed millions of views. Using his business knowledge, he uses an analytical approach throughout his career. It's definitely working; in under 2 years, he's gone from learning to DJ to touring India and Europe! Follow Rob https://www.instagram.com/rob_r_music 🚨Website...
In this week's episode, we chat with Naomi Cazier. Naomi played at Tomorrowland and has had sets in Ibiza and Ministry of Sound after only learning to DJ 2 years ago! Learn how DJ competitions may get you a foot in the door to where you want to be. Follow Naomi: https://www.instagram.com/naomicazier_/ 🚨Website & DJ Courses🚨 For 20% Off, Use Code: 20OFFTHERECORD at https://wearecrossfader.co.uk
