The most important aspect of being a DJ is the area of live performances. This is, however, one where we have to be most cautious. Here, in the live arena, there's no undo button. Whatever we have to do is to be perfect. Let's begin with the details.
This may sound primitive to some, but it is still important enough to be mentioned here. You should at the very first decide whether you're the right choice for a particular event. You should decide this on the basis of the nature of the event and also through a discussion with the organizers. You definitely don't want to end up at the wrong event. You should also discuss with the organizers the type of music you'll be playing. This is very important as it will rule out any possibility of a problem later on.
Oh yes, this is also very important. Be sure to reach the venue at least an hour earlier in order to set up your equipment and see that everything is in order.
As already mentioned, it is not necessary to have a very large collection. However, it has to have variety and quality. It should complement your style and not destroy it. Keep your collection alive by adding the latest compilations.
Do not play the same song twice. This is one thing that ruins most performances.
There should not be even one moment of silence. In other words, play should be non-stop. Overlap the songs when changing from one to the other. Changes should not be abrupt but gradual. Specially made loops can be helpful in such a situation.
DJ's are supposed to create and maintain the mood of any evening i.e. a DJ controls the whole atmosphere of an event. Start of with something light and then gradually move into the heavier stuff. In simpler terms, for example, if you're a rock DJ, and you're booked for an age specific event, say a high school prom, then you will have to negotiate the event carefully. Begin the event playing something enjoyable, either slow or fast. Then, as the audience is having something to eat, play songs known to them i.e. from the latest movies or the latest compilation album. When the eating session is over, play some fast dance music so that everyone is compelled to get on their feet. As soon as the ice is broken, play some soft rock, and couple dances will begin. It is clear here that you will be responsible for setting the mood, and inappropriate music can seriously hamper an evening, and probably your reputation too.
You can add your own style to the music in many ways. You can play two or three songs together, or simply add a loop to a song to improve it. Or you can announce the name of the song before you play it. You can ask the audience to suggest their favorite song, or ask them to sing along. You can even rap to the songs yourself, if you can carry a tune. You can personalize a performance in many ways by paying to the little things.
In the end, thank everybody for being a wonderful audience.
There are a million other things I would like to say here. I will add them as I think of them.
The performance can get even better if you can get a singer to tag along. This way you can add a realistic touch to your performance.
Some lighting effects can really boost your ratings. Go in for cheap but cool looking stuff, which you can find in your local electric store.
You must have enough sound power to cater to the need of a particular event. A good amplification system is a must. Be sure to lay more emphasis on quality than quantity.
Last but not the least, look good! Wear something according to the occasion, like for example, wearing a suit at a wedding party would be a good idea.
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