learningtodj.com

DJing has become a cultural phenomenon, combining technology, music, and creativity into a dynamic career or thrilling hobby. Many eager club goers see and feel the excitement of spinning house and techno and think… I really want to learn how to start DJing!
If you’ve ever imagined yourself behind the decks, shaping the energy of a crowd, this guide is for you! Whether you’re curious about how to start DJing or eager to learn the skills and equipment needed, we’ll guide you through every step...
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I’m thrilled to announce after all these months of recording and editing the launch of my first online course for DJs is live – Learning to DJ (L2DJ) Beginner to Intermediate for House, Electronic and Techno DJs. This course consists of over 10 hours of lectures covering aspects of DJ theory and practice taught by ROBDEEP (CA) (hey there!) a Toronto based DJ and producer with over 10 years of experience DJing and recently started producing and releasing his own music via Soundcloud, Spotify and Bandcamp…
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Nu Disco and Disco House are modern takes on 1970s disco, blending nostalgic vibes with electronic music. While both share disco roots, they differ in tempo, structure, and sound. DJs and producers use unique techniques to bring these genres to life, combining retro elements with modern production tools.
Quick Overview
Nu Disco: Slower (110-122 BPM), melodic, live instruments, verse-chorus structure.
Disco House: Faster (120-128 BPM), sample-heavy, loop-based, club-focused.
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In this episode, Robert focuses on some guidance and advice for apprentice and early DJs. In specific Robert focuses on four topical ideas for early DJs to hear including:
Reality of the DJ Learning Journey
Effective Practice Strategies
Common Stumbling Blocks for New DJs
Final words
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In this episode, Robert focuses on some guidance and advice for apprentice and early DJs. In specific Robert focuses on four topical ideas for early DJs to hear including:
Reality of the DJ Learning Journey
Effective Practice Strategies
Common Stumbling Blocks for New DJs
Final words
View the full article

Melodic house blends emotion with rhythm, creating atmospheric tracks perfect for both introspection and dancefloors. This article highlights 10 key tracks that defined the genre from 2008 to 2025. Each track showcases unique production techniques, emotional depth, and their impact on the evolution of melodic house.
Key Highlights
Deadmau5’s "I Remember" (2008): Laid the foundation with layered synths and emotional vocals.
Eric Prydz’s "Opus" (2015): Pioneered extended arrangements and intricate sound design.
Lane 8’s "Fingerprint" (2017): Brought an intimate vibe to large-scale audiences.
Camelphat’s "Cola" (2017): Balanced underground credibility with mainstream success.
Rufus Du Sol’s "Innerbloom" (2015): Redefined the genre with a 9-minute emotional journey.
Anyma & Chris Avantgarde’s "Consciousness" (2022): Fused classical influences with cutting-edge production.
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Hey there, my name is Robert, passionate hobbyist DJ for 10+ years. I run a DJ blog called learningtodj.com focused on dance music like house, techno and more. There's plenty of free resources available and if you're just starting out and looking to start learning how to DJ you can download this free guide to give you some direction. 
I've recently put up a quick tutorial on my youtube channel on how to mix hardgroove techno in case your a techno DJ and you love this genre.
Enjoy!

Thanks for the link James - glad to find this forum  

Here’s a quick breakdown of 5 top DJ monitors in 2025 that deliver great sound without breaking the bank. Whether you’re mixing at home or performing live, these models balance sound quality, power, and versatility:
Pioneer DJ DM-50D ($230): Dual sound modes for DJing and production, 62W power, and compact design.
JBL 305P MkII ($150): Crisp sound, 82W power, and excellent bass for tight budgets.
KRK Rokit 5 G4 ($200): 100W power, ideal for bass-heavy tracks, and built-in DSP tuning.
Yamaha HS5 ($200): Flat frequency response with 70W power, perfect for studio precision.
PreSonus Eris E5 XT ($200): 80W power, acoustic tuning controls, and room-friendly design.
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Choosing between powered and unpowered DJ speakers depends on your setup needs, venue size, and budget. Here’s what you need to know:
Powered Speakers: Built-in amplifiers, simple setup, great for mobile DJs and smaller venues. Examples: QSC K12.2, JBL EON612.
Unpowered Speakers: Require external amplifiers, offer more customization, ideal for large venues or permanent installations. Examples: QSC KW153, JBL PRX712.
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Choose Beginner-Friendly Software: Free options like VirtualDJ or Serato DJ Lite let you mix music easily.
Optimize Your Laptop: Update drivers, close unnecessary apps, and adjust power settings for smooth performance.
Learn Keyboard Shortcuts: Use your keyboard and mouse to manage tracks, mix beats, and add effects.
Organize Your Music Library: Categorize songs by genre, BPM, and energy level for seamless transitions.
Practice Regularly: Record your mixes, join online DJ communities, and learn from tutorials to improve.
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Recording your first DJ mix is simpler than you think. Here’s what you need to know:
Gear: A DJ controller (e.g., Pioneer DJ DDJ-400), an audio interface (e.g., Focusrite Scarlett 2i2), and high-quality headphones or monitors.
Software: Free tools like Audacity or professional options like Ableton Live for recording and editing.
Setup: Connect your gear using USB or RCA cables. Ensure proper audio levels (-6dB to -3dB) and test before recording.
Music Library: Organize tracks by genre, BPM, and energy level. Use tools like Rekordbox for track analysis and smooth transitions.
Recording: Record directly in DJ software or via an external interface. Export in WAV or MP3 format with balanced audio levels.
Quick Tip: Keep audio levels consistent and leave headroom to avoid distortion. Once recorded, edit and polish your mix for a professional finish.
Ready to dive in? Follow the step-by-step guide to create your first mix with confidence...
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Detroit techno emerged in the 1980s, blending electronic precision with funk and new wave influences. These five tracks capture the essence of the genre’s evolution and lasting impact:
Cybotron – "Clear" (1983): A fusion of electro and funk that laid the groundwork for techno’s sound.
Model 500 – "No UFO’s" (1985): A minimalist yet futuristic track that defined Detroit’s industrial spirit.
Inner City – "Big Fun" (1988): A crossover hit that brought techno to mainstream audiences.
Rhythim Is Rhythim – "Strings of Life" (1987): A melodic masterpiece blending orchestral sounds with urban energy.
Underground Resistance – "Knights of the Jaguar" (1998): A second-wave anthem merging Afro-futuristic themes with innovative production.
These tracks not only shaped electronic music but also continue to inspire modern producers and DJs worldwide...
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Organic House and Playa Tech are two electronic music genres that blend natural sounds, deep rhythms, and spiritual elements. Emerging from Deep House and Minimal Techno, they were shaped by Burning Man‘s unique desert environment and community-driven culture. Here’s what makes them special:
Organic House: Relaxed rhythms, natural instruments, and earthy vibes. Ideal for daytime gatherings.
Playa Tech: Airy synths, deep basslines, and tribal elements. Perfect for nighttime desert settings.
Burning Man’s Role: These genres thrive at the festival, influenced by its principles of gifting and creativity.
Key Artists: Lee Burridge, Bedouin, Damian Lazarus.
Labels to Explore: All Day I Dream, Crosstown Rebels, Sol Selectas.
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Berlin’s techno scene emerged from the ruins of the Berlin Wall, transforming abandoned spaces into legendary clubs like Tresor. Inspired by Detroit’s techno pioneers, Berlin blended industrial sounds with inclusivity, creating a global music hub.
Fall of the Wall (1989): Sparked a cultural rebirth in Berlin, turning empty factories into techno venues.
Detroit’s Influence: Artists like Juan Atkins and Derrick May shaped Berlin’s sound through collaborations and performances.
Iconic Clubs: Tresor (1991), E-Werk, and later Berghain redefined nightlife in industrial settings.
Social Impact: Techno united East and West Berliners and became a safe space for LGBTQ+ communities.
Global Recognition: UNESCO declared Berlin’s club culture as intangible cultural heritage, safeguarding its legacy.
Berlin’s techno journey reflects how music can reshape a city’s identity, blending raw industrial roots with global creativity...
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Disco revolutionized music with its infectious grooves, pioneering use of synthesizers, and funk-driven basslines. It laid the foundation for modern electronic genres like house, techno, and EDM. Here are 10 iconic disco tracks that shaped dance music and continue to inspire:
Donna Summer – "I Feel Love" (1977): Giorgio Moroder’s Moog synthesizer-driven masterpiece redefined electronic music.
Chic – "Good Times" (1979): A bassline that bridged disco, hip-hop, and house music.
Cerrone – "Supernature" (1977): A darker, experimental take on disco with futuristic sounds.
Sylvester – "You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)" (1978): Gospel-inspired vocals meet electronic innovation.
The Trammps – "Disco Inferno" (1976): A fiery anthem blending live instruments and electronic rhythms.
Giorgio Moroder – "The Chase" (1978): A cinematic, fully electronic track that pushed boundaries.
Boney M. – "Rasputin" (1978): Euro-pop meets disco with dynamic storytelling and beats.
Sister Sledge – "Lost in Music" (1979): Harmonized vocals and synth-driven grooves.
Kool & the Gang – "Celebration" (1980): A universal dance anthem with layered horns and rhythms.
Earth, Wind & Fire – "September" (1978): A timeless blend of disco, funk, and soul.
Each track showcases key disco elements – synth patterns, iconic basslines, and rhythmic precision – that continue to influence DJs and producers today. These songs shaped not just music, but also the culture of dance floors worldwide...
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Hi folks,
New post from the blog:
Sober raving is transforming nightlife by offering substance-free events focused on wellness, music, and genuine connections. These events prioritize health, mindfulness, and community while proving that you don’t need alcohol or drugs to enjoy dancing and socializing.
https://learningtodj.com/how-sober-raving-changes-nightlife/ 

Want to keep the energy alive on the dancefloor? Great DJs master the art of reading the crowd. Here’s how:
Watch for Energy Signals: Head-nodding and foot-tapping indicate medium energy, while synchronized cheers show peak engagement. Phone use or trips to the bar signal energy dips.
Adapt to Crowd Movement: Track shifts between the dance core (high energy), mid-floor (medium energy), and peripheral zones (low energy).
Engage Crowd Influencers: Spot key individuals who amplify energy and interact with them.
Manage Energy Levels: Use BPM ranges (e.g., 110-120 for warm-up, 130+ for peak time) and mixing techniques like quick cuts or filter sweeps to control the vibe.
Fix Energy Dips: Keep backup tracks ready (e.g., pop-dance crossovers) and adjust lighting and spacing to recover momentum.
Pro Tip: Scan the entire room, not just the front row, and use tools like DJ software or lighting consoles to monitor energy shifts. The best DJs create a conversation with the crowd through music...
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Want to stand out as a DJ? Your set curation is the key to building a signature style that gets you noticed by booking agents and keeps the crowd engaged. Here’s what you’ll learn:
Track Selection: Pick tracks that reflect your unique sound (stick to a 60/40 split – 60% signature tracks, 40% experimental).
Mixing Style: Master EQ, filter transitions, and create custom edits to make your mixes distinct.
Energy Flow: Plan your set with smooth BPM transitions and mood shifts to maintain energy and excitement.
Crowd Reading: Adapt to the vibe of the room while staying true to your core sound.
Set Review: Analyze recordings, get feedback, and refine your craft.
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Hey there, my name is Robert, passionate hobbyist DJ for 10+ years. I run a DJ blog called learningtodj.com focused on dance music like house, techno and more. There's plenty of free resources available and if you're just starting out and looking to start learning how to DJ you can download this free guide to give you some direction. 
I've recently put up a quick tutorial on my youtube channel on how to mix hardgroove techno in case your a techno DJ and you love this genre.
Enjoy!

Thanks for the link James - glad to find this forum