As a professional DJ – whether you are at the club or mixing in the studio, we know there will have been times you have forgotten a vital item to aid your performance. If you are unable to head back or purchase another in time, you are at the mercy of those around you and may even have to continue without.
From your lucky underwear to trusty duct tape – your prized possession could be anything and everything. However, we’ve compiled a list of what the team at Digital DJ Music deem as the most important items for a successful show. Print it out, laminate it and be ultra-prepared at every stage of your musical career, for many nights to come.
1.) Headphones
Probably one of the most important items on the list, but very easy to forget. iPod headphones will work as a substitute, but you will really miss the cushioning, clear sound of a proper set of DJ headphones when it comes to mixing. Have your professional headphones round your neck at all times to be safe – plus, you can use them for personal listening time on the way home.
2.) Duct tape
A million uses for this single tape - you can repair broken leads and lighting, keep cables safe from passers-by and secure precarious equipment so that it doesn't wobble through the bass. Even if you need stick up a emergency poster or set list, having something like duct tape on the road will always come in handy.
3.) Laptop power cable
Mobile phones, tablets and of course laptops all need power from the mains from time to time to charge their battery – and whilst you may remember to take the actual device everywhere you go, you may get complacent with the battery life and get a dreadful shock when it starts to run down mid-set. Keep a spare with you at all times just in case, even if you never use it - you'll be grateful if you ever do.
4.) Multi-tool
Whether you need to unscrew a plug socket, amend the sensitivity on your DJ controller’s jog wheels or just tighten up the DJ lighting – you never know when you’ll need to have a tool handy to get you out of a sticky situation. From a multi-tool device to a small screwdriver or penknife, consider carrying a selection around in your bag for such emergencies.
5.) Torch
If you are playing in a club – chances are your DJ booth will be dark. Whether you are trying to plug in your DJ controller or end up dropping equipment on the floor, a torch will be your new best friend when battling with the lack of lighting without having to ruin the atmosphere you've worked so hard to create.
6.) iPod/Tablet
Even with the most high-tech DJ controller or laptop, they are still machines and ultimately face the possibility of dying from time to time. Don’t get caught out and make sure you have a playlist ready to go on your iPod or smartphone device to connect with your DJ mixer so you don't have to let the music stop.
7,) Spare leads & cables
From DJ mixer to controller, laptop and speakers to iPod or lighting – you’ll need the right connection to power up and it’s always best to have spares available. If you use a specific piece of equipment you may struggle to find a suitable match when caught out – so be prepared and keep additional DJ accessories with you wherever you go.
8.) Ear plugs
If you are touring across the country, countless hours spent behind the DJ booth night after night with 90+ decibels blasting around you - there will be damage to your ear drums. To avoid inevitable tinnitus, make sure you wear ear plugs. You can purchase cheap foam plugs en masse or even go for custom made - either way, keep your ears plugged and protected.
