Tips for house party DJs

I love DJing at house parties and if you want to do the same here are my tips.

Have internet available

While this isn't necessary required people may request random songs and the internet will ensure that you can fulfill their requests.

You could consider getting the premium service that Spotify or YouTube offers. This will allow you to access a large library of music without advertisements.

Ask what music people like

You don't have to do this but it can be helpful to ask the host what music the guests would like. If the host says that it doesn't matter you could ask your friends if they're going.

If you're the host you can play whatever you want but it might be worth asking guests what they like to if the goal is people pleasing.

Of course it's possible you know what your attendees would like without asking.

Sort a playlist before

If you're not doing a music mix you should probably create a playlist in advance filled with the songs that the guests will like.

Some DJs do playlists double the length they're playing just in case the guests don't like some songs.

Tailor music to the audience

Ditch the music people don't dance to and play more of the style of music they like. This is your primary job as a DJ.

Get good speakers

My advice would be to get fairly loud speakers that would be a good fit for most party areas.

Assess the volume

Some people will complain if the music is too loud, and some will complain if it's too quiet.

Some hosts would prefer the music to be quieter to allow people to talk, but some people just want to dance with loud music. These people can annoy each other at parties by changing the music volume constantly; this is usually avoided with a DJ.

I believe that the host is the boss and has final say.

You don't have to max out the volume. This will allow people to tell you to "turn it up" for particular songs. When the song ends you turn it back to the normal volume. Of course you can decide if you want to do this.

Test your system before

If you're playing your tunes out of the host's speakers you should test your setup before the party begins. You could do it an hour before or a few days before.

If you're not using Bluetooth testing the system a few days before might be a good idea in case you need particular plugs.

You might be better off buying your own speakers etc. so you can test the equipment at your house. You just need to ensure that your equipment is good enough for most party areas. You may want to buy a disco light too.

Ensure that you equipment is safe

It can be worthwhile to not let people place their drinks on the same table as your equipment. Some people build a wall around their equipment, doing this at home would be the best idea.

Keep wires away from people's feet if you can. If this isn't possible try taping them to the floor using electrical tape.

Do you need to mix music?

You probably don't need to mix music for most house parties however if the goal is practicing your DJ skills you may choose to.

Can you drink when you're DJing at house parties?

I imagine most do; I do myself. I'm uncomfortable getting too wasted when DJing as it's important that I can still operate the computer. Then again it doesn't always work out as many people offer me drinks etc. at parties. I could be more sober if I really needed to.

Have fun

You probably want to DJ because you like music so feel free to embrace it and have fun doing so.