Off The Record - The DJ Podcast by Crossfader

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.

Apple Music is shaking up the DJ world with its integration into major DJ software, giving access to over 100 million songs. The discussion covers the implications for DJs of all levels, encouraging creativity and accessibility. Challenges of relying on streaming in live settings are also explored, alongside the evolving tech of DJ gear. The speakers reflect on personal experiences with music streaming services and the changing landscape of DJing, including concerns over market dominance and community engagement in the industry.

Chapter & Verse, a dedicated DJ with firsthand experience in the music industry, shares his journey of resilience amidst numerous rejections. He dives into why building a genuine fanbase is essential, even more than production skills. The conversation unpacks the toxic snobbery in the underground scene and offers insights on how to get signed by major labels without connections. He candidly discusses the gritty realities of touring, including visa challenges and personal sacrifices, while advocating for emerging talent and authenticity in music.

Dive into the struggles and triumphs DJs face as they navigate authenticity in a world where image often overshadows genuine talent. The hosts discuss a controversial Reddit story about a DJ 'faking it' and emphasize the importance of real narratives. Explore innovative tools like Mixed in Key 11 pro for crafting seamless mixes. Learn about personalized learning journeys that empower aspiring DJs, and discover the significance of embracing imperfection and curating the perfect set to elevate your skills.

Nico Perez, CEO of Mixcloud, shares insights into the evolving DJ landscape. He discusses how DJs can leverage Mixcloud for gigs and revenue through its unique monetization model. The conversation highlights tools for community engagement and the importance of live streaming. They also explore Mixcloud's partnership with Encore, enhancing visibility for DJs. Perez emphasizes the need for creators to produce original music while adapting to modern licensing changes. Hear about the future of DJing and practical strategies for success on the platform!

Discover a practical 60-day strategy for DJs to grow their audience through consistency and networking. Learn how to create engaging content on platforms like TikTok and Instagram while building your personal brand. The discussion dives into the evolving music scene, including the acquisition of Boiler Room and its impact on authenticity. Explore innovative ways to engage fans via live streaming and collaborations, with valuable insights on music recycling and nostalgic influences shaping today's sounds.

Sabion Paid, a rising DJ who gained notable recognition after touring with James Hype, shares his inspiring journey in the music scene. He discusses the challenges of learning to DJ, the importance of structured education, and how serendipitous connections helped him break into the industry. Sabion details life on a DJ tour bus, the excitement of warming up for James, and his strategies for navigating set planning and performance. His story emphasizes persistence, adaptability, and the value of authentic relationships in music.

Dive into the dynamic world of R3WIRE, who transitioned from resident DJ to record label owner at Stereohype. He shares insights on what labels seek in artists and the day-to-day life in the industry. Hear about his experiences touring with James Hype, the challenges of securing a DJ visa for the U.S., and balancing technical skills with crowd energy. R3WIRE also reflects on the evolving landscape of DJ content creation and the unpredictable journey to musical success. Get ready for a glimpse into his upcoming U.S. tour!

In this conversation, DJ Andy Purnell shares his journey from the club circuit to entertaining at major events for brands like the NBA and Gumball 3000. He talks about the evolution of his DJ career, spurred by the pandemic, and how networking has opened doors for him. Andy reveals the thrilling experience of performing at supercar rallies and highlights his role in the Red Bull Culture Clash. He also emphasizes the importance of engaging with audiences and adapting to different performance settings.

DJs are eager to land more gigs this year, and the hosts share a foolproof strategy to achieve this goal. They discuss the power of consistency in content creation, emphasizing authentic engagement over follower counts. The upcoming music convention in South LA promises networking opportunities and support for displaced individuals. Exploring unconventional venues and refining online presence are key to navigating the evolving DJ landscape. There’s also excitement about new mixes and the launch of 'Office Hours' to enhance audience engagement.