The Secret to Being the Most Prepared DJ at Any Event

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Shawn Golding
Apr 28, 2023

Becoming a successful DJ takes hard work, dedication, and lots of preparation. Now that you have hit the big time and have been invited to play at different events and gigs, it is essential that you have everything you need to play at a moment's notice. Forgetting vital pieces of equipment is not only embarrassing, but it could quite literally be a show-stopper.

Below we look at the secret to being the most prepared DJ at any event, so you can get on with your set without worry.

Create a Checklist

A checklist is the most important part of playing any gig and is a handy tool for making sure you have everything prepared in plenty of time. Once you have written and perfected your checklist, you can use this for every event or gig, modifying anything needed depending on the venue. Without a checklist, you are relying solely on memory, which will only lead to added stress on the day. 

If you want to avoid mistakes like forgetting to charge your laptop to full battery or forgetting your USB drive with your all music on, a checklist is essential. This way, you can focus on playing at your best without that nagging feeling that you’ve left something behind or forgotten something important.

Your checklist should include:

  • everything you need to do the day before the event, such as making sure your equipment is in working order and charged fully
  • things you should do the day of the event, like a practice run of your set
  • all the DJ gear and equipment you need to pack

We’ve broken this down into two categories below to help you create the ultimate DJ checklist for any event or gig. 

Equipment Checklist

An equipment checklist will ensure you are well prepared, whether you are playing at a local festival or down at your favorite nightclub. This may look different for every DJ, depending on your setup or what equipment is already at the venue, but an equipment checklist can include things like:

  • USB stick (and a backup) - There can be no DJ set without music, so don’t forget your reliable USB drive. It is also a good idea to have a copy, as USB sticks are easily lost. 
  • Laptop, charger, and any attachments - If you DJ using computer software, you definitely don’t want to forget any of these.
  • DJ gear - This includes everything you need to play your set, such as your decks, mixer, and any power cables.
  • Cartridges, DVS box, needles, and Phase system/control vinyl (for Turntable DJs) - Never rely on a venue's needles or cartridges, the quality could be subpar compared to yours.
  • Headphones, an adaptor, and a backup pair - Another vital piece of DJ equipment, you can’t get very far without your headphones. Having a spare pair could just save your set, or someone else’s!
  • Microphone and cable - Some venues may require you to bring a microphone, so check before you get there.
  • Extension cable - An extension cable could save your set.
  • Tape or zip ties - An untidy workspace not only looks bad, but it could also cause a trip hazard.
  • Speakers - Most venues have their own speaker system, but you may be required to take your own if you’re playing a special event, such as an outdoor wedding. 
  • Lighting - Being a DJ is about the whole show, not just the music. As you get more gigs and land awesome events, you should learn how to use lighting effectively. While many venues will prepare this for you, there are times when you will need to bring your own lighting and stands. 

General Checklist

As well as having your equipment checklist, a general checklist will ensure you are the most prepared (and comfortable) DJ at any event. Some of the things on this list may seem like obvious items to bring, but when you are in a rush or nervous about your upcoming set, it’s easy to forget even the most obvious of items. 

A general checklist should consist of items like:

  • Wallet - Even if you expect to be paid at the gig, you should always have a backup in case of an emergency. Not all DJs are offered free drinks and you should never assume.
  • Cellphone and charger - You will likely be using your mobile throughout the gig, whether this is for music backup or to record parts of your set for your socials. Don’t get caught out with a low battery, pack a portable charger or invest in a phone case that charges your phone on the go.
  • Snacks and a drink - DJing is hard work and depending on the length of your set, you may start to get peckish and dehydrated. It doesn’t hurt to have a few snacks and a bottle of water in your bag.
  • Medications - Working at an event is LOUD. If you’re not used to the noise yet or are just feeling stressed and anxious before your gig, you may want to pop back a couple of painkillers to get rid of that oncoming headache. Whatever medications you might need, pack them and save yourself having a run to the pharmacy before your gig.
  • Business cards - A professional DJ will promote themselves wherever they go. Having a few business cards in your pocket is always a good idea; you never know who might turn up to your gig!
  • Pen and paper - There are often times when you think of a new transition or idea halfway through a DJ set, but don’t have anywhere to write it down. If you bring a pen and paper to your gig, now you can!
  • Change of clothes and toiletries - DJing is a sweaty business. You may want to grab a couple of drinks after your set or enjoy the rest of the event. In this case, a spare change of clothes and some toiletries to freshen up is a must. Trust us, you don’t want to go walking around in your sweaty clothes once your set is done.
  • Earplugs - Save your ears and reduce your chance of tinnitus by packing a quality pair of earplugs for your gigs.

Other Tips and Tricks for Event Preparation

For getting to and from the event with your gear intact, use a high-quality DJ bag or case. Protecting your gear is so important, as failure to do this could cause equipment to become damaged or break. Not only is this costly, but you could also arrive at the venue unable to make your speaker connect (not a good look)!

If you have purchased any new equipment, make sure you are well-versed in setting it up and using it. You don’t want to be fumbling around trying to make equipment work in a busy nightclub with an audience. Investing in wireless speakers can make it easier to set up, as you don’t need to mess around with a myriad of wires. Wireless speakers like the ones at https://galaxyaudio.com/sound-equipment/speakers/wireless-speaker-systems/ are a great choice for aspiring DJs. 

Behind every good DJ is a well-thought-out event checklist. No matter how long you’ve been DJing, it is so easy to forget something important. With a general and equipment checklist on hand, you can be prepared for anything, such as a USB failure, a lost pair of headphones, or an oncoming headache! If you are looking to be the most prepared DJ at any event, start working on your checklists today.