Have you ever wondered how to be a karaoke DJ? It’s not as difficult as you might imagine, though it does require more than a bit of salesmanship on your part!
Below, we’ll give you some hints on how to be a karaoke DJ who brings in crowds, drives traffic to venues and, most of all, makes good money doing a fun job!
1. Shadow a Working Karaoke DJ
If you’ve never DJ’d karaoke-style before, you’ll need to make certain that you understand the ins and outs of the profession. Find a current DJ to “shadow” (or assist) and he or she can teach you how to DJ for this type of environment.
2. Invest in Karaoke Equipment
After you’ve finished shadowing someone, you may want to consider investing in your own karaoke equipment. This will give you a greater chance of being able to encourage venues to hire you (especially restaurants and lounges who do not have their own karaoke machines or set-ups.) One caveat to this is that you’ll have to put forth money — and that’s always a risk. Still, if you want to have a disc jockey career, it’s worth the investment.
3. Get on the Telephone!
Now, it’s time to do what some DJs find the most difficult of all — SELL YOURSELF! This is the element of how to be a karaoke DJ that usually causes a modicum of concern in would-be DJs. However, you don’t have to be pushy! If you know of eateries that could use your services, give them a buzz and ask if they would be open to a karaoke night. (This is where having your own equipment comes in handy!) If they say “no”, move on to your next prospect.
Just don’t give up! It usually takes about 15-20 “no” answers before you’ll get a “yes” one. (Don’t forget that you’ll need to have a fee structure in mind before making your calls — ask your karaoke DJ friends for advice on how to price your services.)
4. Market Your Karaoke Night
Even if the venue you’ve chosen for your karaoke gig promises to advertise your special night, don’t assume they will. Make your own flyers and promote, promote, promote! (Really, if you are just learning how to DJ, it’s a good idea to work on self-promotion anyway!)
5. Be Energetic and Explosive!
At every karaoke gig, really give it your all! Be fun, be excited, be enthusiastic, be supportive! Laugh and the room will laugh with you! The more you can get the crowd involved, the better for them… and you!
Tags: How to Be a Karaoke DJ, How to DJ
