Ep.129 Why DJs Stay STUCK (and how to break through)

👉 Join Crossfader for free and start your DJ journey today: ⁠⁠https://bit.ly/4jERmne⁠⁠In 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 representation in DJing, explore how emerging markets like India and Latin America are shifting the landscape, and unpack why festivals are booming — but also becoming less accessible.Whether you're an aspiring DJ or industry insider, this episode is packed with must-know trends and honest conversations from the heart of the global electronic music scene.00:00 – Welcome to IMS Ibiza episode03:02 – Drum & Bass and Afro House rising06:05 – SoundCloud is thriving again09:08 – Live scene growth & saturation12:11 – Build your own DJ community15:14 – Women in DJing: Still rising18:17 – Emerging markets shaping the future21:20 – DJs must diversify creative output24:23 – We need more real DJs

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 altogether⁠⁠The truth about labels and releases⁠⁠Building a career without relying on virality⁠⁠DJing for 14 hours a day in Ibiza⁠⁠What the scene gets wrong (and right) in 2025⁠⁠His mission to keep conversations real through podcasting.⁠00:00 – Who is Will Clarke10:00 – DJing in Ibiza20:00 – Breaking into Labels30:00 – Streaming vs Touring40:00 – Building Real Community50:00 – Why Albums Matter01:00:00 – The Live Show Struggle01:10:00 – Podcasting and Pressure01:20:00 – The Goal Reset

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 commitment to DJ culture✅ The pros (and cons) of a streaming-based workflow✅ What this move means for creativity, accessibility, and the next generation of DJsLearn more : https://wearecrossfader.co.uk/blog/apple-music-update/

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 get signed to major labels (without industry connections!)✅ The dark side of DJ touring: sleepless nights, visa issues & the grind✅ Why he personally funds a DJ competition to give newcomers a chance✅ What separates DJs who break through from those who never make itThis no-BS conversation will change the way you think about DJing, social media, and building a real career in music. If you’ve ever felt stuck, ignored by labels, or doubted your path, this episode is for YOU.Website & DJ Courses🚨 For 20% Off, Use Code: 20OFFTHERECORD at ⁠⁠https://wearecrossfader.co.uk

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 DJs12:45 Mixcloud acquiring Encore14:30 How Encore helps DJs16:15 The rise of DJ streaming18:00 Streaming trends post-pandemic19:45 How Mixcloud shares revenue21:30 The future of Mixcloud23:00 Final thoughts and outro

Our new mix channel : https://www.youtube.com/@OfficeHours_CrossfaderThis 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.ukTimestamps00:00 Intro – Meeting Sabian on tour01:10 How Sabian discovered DJing02:45 Learning DJing through Crossfader05:00 First controller and early struggles08:50 Connecting with James Hype12:40 Call of Duty opportunity15:30 Helping James Hype’s live shows18:45 Filming and assisting live streams22:00 Transitioning to DJing on tour25:10 First warm-up set for James29:00 Opening every Get Closer show32:50 Life on a DJ tour bus36:15 DJing challenges and set planning40:20 How opening for James helped45:30 Plans for 2025 and beyond50:10 Advice for new DJs

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 down the day-to-day life of a label manager, offering insight into what labels look for in new artists. A true DJ’s DJ, R3WIRE has always pushed technical performance in his sets, showcasing insane skills on Instagram. But does this translate to big-stage performances? We get his thoughts on balancing technicality with crowd energy. Plus, with a U.S. tour on the horizon, we discuss how he landed the opportunity, where he’s playing, and his goals for the future. He also reflects on touring with James Hype on the Get Closer tour and shares what life on the road is really like. Timestamps 00:00 Grinding through the early days02:05 First DJ setup at 1404:50 First club gig at 1607:30 Learning the club scene abroad10:45 Joining Ministry of Sound13:05 Touring with MTV16:50 Starting Stereohype with James Hype21:45 What labels look for in artists29:10 The importance of DJ content39:50 Touring the U.S. in 2025 🚨Website & DJ Courses🚨 For 20% Off, Use Code: 20OFFTHERECORD at ⁠https://wearecrossfader.co.uk

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 Purnell https://www.instagram.com/djandypurnell