Off The Record - The DJ Podcast by Crossfader

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.

Chris Goss, co-founder of Hospital Records, has been a crucial figure in the drum and bass scene for nearly three decades. He shares fascinating insights about the genre’s revival, driven by TikTok and its vibrant festival presence. Goss discusses the evolving role of record labels in artist development and the importance of storytelling. He highlights initiatives promoting gender equality and mentorship, and reflects on the transition from vinyl to today’s digital landscape. With his sights set on legacy, Goss emphasizes the need for timeless creativity in music.

Lawrence James, part of the online DJ community Crossfader, offers invaluable insights for aspiring DJs and producers. He shares game-changing branding strategies, emphasizing storytelling and social media engagement. Lawrence discusses the importance of community building and defines success through meaningful connections rather than just numbers. He also addresses content creation burnout and recommends a structured approach to enhance creativity. Plus, there's an exciting competition announcement for DJs to perform at the Rise Festival in the French Alps!

In this conversation, Olivia Mancuso, founder of Elevated Frequencies and a seasoned business coach for DJs, shares her journey from TV reporting to empowering artists globally. She emphasizes the importance of storytelling in marketing, navigating rejection as a growth catalyst, and finding a niche to stand out. Olivia discusses practical strategies like quarterly vision boards for goal-setting and the power of in-person networking, highlighting how these elements can foster resilience and sustainable careers in the competitive DJ landscape.

DJ Angelo, a globally respected DJ and educator from the UK, shares his inspiring journey from humble beginnings to becoming a DJ culture ambassador. He discusses the evolution of DJing from vinyl to digital, highlighting the creativity and challenges involved. The conversation delves into the impact of technology on accessibility and diversity in the DJ community. Angelo stresses the importance of embracing both traditional and modern methods, fostering adaptability, and nurturing individuality in the ever-changing world of DJ culture.

Dive into the pulse of Parklife Festival 2025, where unforgettable performances met surprising challenges. Discover how DJs tailor their sound for audiences while navigating the ever-changing music landscape. Learn practical tips for throwing successful gigs and unravel the treasure hunt for new music beyond the mainstream. Enjoy insights into the collaborative spirit of local events and the nostalgic vibes of house music that keep the dance floors alive. This is a vibrant exploration of today's DJ culture and community connections!

Breaking the 10,000 follower barrier is a challenge for new DJs. The podcast provides a step-by-step guide to grow your fanbase, focusing on engaging content and storytelling. Real-life success examples from top industry figures highlight effective social media strategies. There’s valuable advice for introverted artists on becoming more authentic and connecting with fans. Plus, discussions on the significance of adapting to trends and community building reveal how meaningful connections can transform casual listeners into dedicated supporters.