EP 132. THIS is how the DJ INDUSTRY works in 2025 - Will Clarke
Apr 10, 2025
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This week features Will Clarke, a Grammy-nominated DJ and producer known for his honest approach to dance music. He shares his journey from playing at a caravan park to Coachella, revealing the burnout and challenges of the industry. Will discusses the complexities of navigating labels and the importance of community over virality. He also emphasizes the unpredictability of DJ success, blending authentic storytelling with career advice, and talks about the evolving landscape of DJing in 2025.
The evolving DJ industry demands artists build their own brand and community instead of solely relying on traditional record labels.
Extended conversations among artists foster a supportive network that helps them navigate industry challenges and grow collectively.
A successful music career requires adaptability, embracing setbacks, and refining artistic identity while cultivating strong community connections.
Deep dives
The Shift in the Music Industry Landscape
Labels no longer hold the same power they once did in the music industry, as success is increasingly determined by individual artists and their communities. Artists are encouraged to build their own branding and fan base rather than depending solely on traditional record labels for recognition and success. This evolution in the industry fosters a mindset where local DJs are urged not to perform for free, as gaining experience and exposure takes precedence over immediate financial compensation. By investing time and effort into their craft, artists can effectively grow their communities and enhance their chances of long-term success.
The Importance of Long Conversations
Engaging in long conversations is crucial for artists to understand the intricacies of their industry and share valuable insights within their community. Unlike short clips on social media that often lack depth, extended discussions provide a platform for exploring various aspects of art, performance, and the challenges faced by artists. The richness of these conversations reinforces the idea that artists share similar struggles, solidifying a sense of camaraderie among them. This exchange of experiences nurtures a supportive network where artists can learn, grow, and inspire one another.
Building a Sustainable Career
A lasting career in the music industry is built upon a combination of talent, collaboration, and the ability to adapt to changing surroundings. Artists must be willing to face and overcome periodic setbacks, which could include moments of doubt and career-related obstacles, such as the perception of being unsuccessful. As they navigate their journeys, individuals are encouraged to refine their artistic identities and experiment with different styles and brands. Evolution as an artist often involves learning from these crashes and burns, ultimately guiding them toward consistent growth and success.
The Role of Community in Music
Communities play a vital role in an artist's career, as they can provide support, feedback, and promotion of new music. The podcast emphasizes that building connections with fans and fellow artists fosters a loyal following that can lead to greater opportunities. A community-focused approach allows for the sharing of resources, knowledge, and experiences, which can help nurture emerging talent within the music scene. This sense of connectivity strengthens each artist's impact and ultimately contributes to a more vibrant industry environment.
Navigating the Challenges of Social Media
Social media has become an essential tool for artists to connect with their audiences and promote their work, yet it can also present unique challenges. While immediate feedback from posts can be beneficial, the volatile nature of trends and algorithms makes it difficult to gauge success meaningfully. Artists are encouraged to view their social media presence as just one aspect of their career alongside their music and live performances. Understanding that not every post will resonate allows artists to remain authentic while experimenting with different strategies in their marketing efforts.
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 career without relying on virality
DJing for 14 hours a day in Ibiza
What the scene gets wrong (and right) in 2025
His 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
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