[divider]Journey Through Technology[/divider]
One of the main ways dance music has evolved in the past few decades is the invention of new technologies that have altered the work of a DJ. Oakenfold talks about what it means to be a successful DJ in 2014. This led into discussing some of the innovations that have changed the name of the DJ game. From Pioneer’s DJM-500, to present day, the skills needed in the daily work of a DJ are different. This pre-organization of music has led to many DJ’s who can stand in front of a crowd, and have their hands in the air, something that wasn’t possible until fairly recently. “Pressing play” for performance is a modern reality. For better or for worse, the game has changed. One of the main alterations is that a DJ first and foremost must be a producer.
Pioneer changed the whole game, because originally there’s an art to what you do, and playing live on vinyl, when it goes out of time, it’s so much more work into playing on vinyl…and then Serato came into the game, and a lot of stuff is done, pre-organized, pre-arranged on a laptop.
That quickness of production in turn has lead to many DJs pumping out a hit track, getting popular, and then being forced to hit the road to tour nonstop before they can focus on producing more music. The rise of the single-song DJ of course cuts both ways; on one hand, people can always see their favorite DJs perform live. On the other, there’s less focus on honing one’s craft, actually taking the time to learn how to DJ, and producing more music.
The work that goes into learning to DJ isn’t an overnight affair. It takes years of practice, commitment, and more than a quick tutorial followed by a push out on the road to begin touring.
Just like anything, you have to learn your craft. Just because you can kick a soccer ball, doesn’t mean you’re a soccer player…so just because you can make a track, doesn’t mean you’re a DJ.
It was a burning thought in our minds, as to what Oakenfold pictured the EDM scene would look like in the years to come. Like every other genre, EDM will have its own time to wax and wane. However, it’s current popularity gives him a chance to show everyone the music that has been a pivotal part of his world for a long time. Eventually, people will likely grow tired of what we consider modern day EDM, and that the DJs with great talent will remain. We can only hope Oakenfold is correct in terms of great DJs staying with the scene.
Oakenfold lands at Foundation Nightclub once again (Photo Credit: Turk Photos)
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