How to DJ for Free

Djing can be a very expensive hobbie, especially if you are just starting out but there are many ways you can DJ for free until you are ready to buy some equipment. The first and most obvious way is to borrow some equipment off of friends but that isn’t always possible. So instead try download some trial versions of dj software. There’s loads out there from 30 day trial of Tracktor to iphone and ipad apps. These won’t be perfect but they’ll allow you to practise djing and get a feel for it.

Iphone and ipad apps will especially help you to dj, offering touch controls and all sorts of options to become a virtual dj. PC based programs will all offer similar interfaces and functionality, they’ll have a mixer, two turntables, effects panels, volume controls and much more. They’ll also allow you to access your music files so you can practise mixing your songs.

Once you have imported music files into the programs you’ll be able to set them up into play lists where you can practise mixing.

To start slide the fader to 100% for the first track and then start playing it. Mess around with the sliders, effects controls and other tools in the program. Then start playing your second track and slide the fader over to it slowly. This is mixing a track but you’ll need to practise to match the beats as well as getting it sounding right. Check out our other tutorials on how to beat match and mix.

Once you have enough practise you need to create a mix. This is a selection of tracks that you can mix together so your tunes last for longer than 3 minutes. Different audiences and music genres require different skills for mixing so see what works best for you and make your mix last for between 30 minutes and an hour.

Now its time to try it for real. Try and borrow a set of proper decks and a mixer or carry on using your computer and show your skills off to friends or play at parties. Practise as much as possible.

You’ll probably want to move on from the free software at some point but you can DJ for free whilst you learn by following this guide.