Off The Record - The DJ Podcast by Crossfader

In this episode, Elijah-DJ, writer and creator of the Yellow Squares, sits down to talk all things music, creativity, and the future of DJing. We cover:Buy - Close the app, make da ting https://www.amazon.co.uk/Close-App-Make-Ting-Transformative/dp/1913231798Follow Elijahhttps://www.instagram.com/eli1ah/What does it mean to be a DJ in 2026?How the Yellow Squares project went from Instagram to global impactThe tension between creativity, commerce, and algorithmsHis bold collab with AlphaTheta on the yellow OMNIS-DUO controllerWhy “friends buy tickets” and the economics of music cultureBreaking out of the bubble and redefining success on your own termsA must-listen for anyone navigating the modern music industry.00:00 Intro 05:15 What is a DJ? 10:30 Creative Freedom 15:45 The Algorithm 21:00 Friends Buy Tickets 26:30 DIY DJ Culture 31:45 The Yellow Squares 37:00 Why DJs Should Write 42:15 Agent vs Artist 47:30 AlphaTheta Collab

Discover the four essential pillars every DJ needs to thrive in the coming years: Passion, Technology, Community, and Attention. Lawrence shares how modern technology has democratized DJing and discusses the blurred lines between DJing and producing. Practical tips on networking and building community are highlighted, emphasizing genuine interactions over numbers. Uncover personality archetypes for effective self-promotion and learn how to balance an online presence with real-world connections. Plus, insights on handling nerves and standing out in competitions!

With more DJs than ever, standing out is crucial! The hosts recap their experiences at the Amsterdam Dance Event, highlighting the importance of personal connections. They discuss the essential shift from DJ to music producer to rise above the competition. Modern DJ archetypes are explored, revealing diverse skill sets. Innovative marketing tips replace outdated flyer promotions, focusing on storytelling and engaging content. Plus, they emphasize the value of a dedicated team and strategic planning for success in a crowded field.

In this engaging conversation, HANA reveals her journey from childhood singer to a prominent name in electronic music. She discusses her intensive learning process with Ableton, the excitement of touring with artists like Grimes, and the unique experience of livestreaming her album creation on Twitch. HANA also shares her hybrid DJ approach, balancing live vocals with electronic sets, and emphasizes the importance of genuine connections over networking. Finally, she touches on mental health, creativity, and her upcoming EP, 'Extended Prey.'

DJs often stress over gear and perfection, but there's a lot they can let go. Discover the seven things DJs shouldn’t worry about, like chasing trends and what others think. Enjoy a hilarious Reddit story of a wedding that turned into a rave with a sound clash between the bride and groom. Plus, tune in for insights from Ibiza, including club experiences and the importance of sound systems. Embracing mistakes is all part of the DJ journey!

The buzz around the CDJ-3000X inspired a lively debate among DJs online. They discussed whether it’s worth upgrading, considering its features like built-in Wi-Fi. Exciting collaborations with Apple Music and Tool Room Academy aim to empower DJs in music production. With over 1,500 entrants in an upcoming DJ competition, the focus remains on community and talent. Additionally, insights on the evolving landscape of DJ brands and the pros and cons of the Rain 1 Mark II add depth to the conversation.

Essel, a Liverpool DJ and producer renowned for her Toolroom tracks and Ibiza gigs, shares her thrilling rise in the music scene. She reflects on starting in Ibiza with no plan and the superficial nature of DJ networking. The conversation turns to her chart-topping success on Beatport and the struggles of social media pressure. Essel also reveals how using strategy (and even a meme page!) helped her break tracks, offering raw truths and laughs for aspiring DJs and producers.

Oskar Eichler, co-founder of 1001Tracklists and Songstats, shares his journey from bedroom DJ to key player in the electronic music scene. He discusses the evolution of his YouTube channel, navigating challenges like the adpocalypse, and how 1001Tracklists empowers artists and fans through setlist tracking. Oskar also shares insights into his duo, Don’t Blink, revealing their creative processes and strategies. Additionally, he highlights tools like Playlist Check that enhance transparency and support for artists in today's competitive market.

Eve Dodd, social media manager at Crossfader, joins Laurence James to share essential strategies for DJs aiming to score festival gigs. They outline a practical seven-step guide to enhance your chances, including building your identity and creating a true fanbase. Eve emphasizes the importance of networking and understanding industry politics. Listeners also learn about an exciting DJ competition for Rise Festival that highlights crafting the perfect festival set. It's a fun, insightful chat packed with actionable advice for aspiring DJs!

Angel Lee, a talented DJ and producer from Leeds, shares her inspiring journey from local clubs to headlining iconic venues like Amnesia Ibiza. She discusses the importance of networking and industry connections while adapting to diverse audiences. Angel reflects on her innovative project, Angie’s Disco, created during lockdown, demonstrating resilience and creativity. The conversation dives into the challenges of transitioning from DJing to music production and emphasizes the significance of authenticity and perseverance in the competitive music industry.