Quality entertainment is what everyone seeks in the Washington DC area for their lounge, bar, wedding, private and corporate events. The caveat in this matter, however, is securing a professional, talented and experienced DJ at a level of cost that is acceptable per the presented value.  At DJOC we understand that and that is why we have come up with the Classic Package!  Your needs to have incredible entertainment, while staying within your budget, is attacked and address and is done so at a level that many are finding INCREDIBLE!

The Classic Package provides you with a DJ who has at least five to eight years of experience.  Each DJ that is offered via this package has performed a minimum of 300 events in their career and has a client approval rating that exceeds 90% and a vendor referral rating that exceeds 95%!  Also, each DJ signs off on the DJOC commitment to excellence agreement.  This is an agreement that holds each talent that is associated with DJOC accountable for their actions both before, during and after the event.

You will have one full music consultation with our DJOC staff that will last a total of one and a half hours.  We will do a venue walk through prior to your event so we are on the same page with the staff at the venue and your vision of the evening.  You will have a complete follow up with your DJ two weeks prior to the date to review and discuss all items that our outlined within your DJOC online account.  This review will be done via ClearSlide online so that we can not only save you money, but it helps us to reduce our costs so that we can pay our DJ’s above the going rate in the Washington DC area.  This is an aspect that is crucial in insuring that

In all you receive a total preparation and consultation time of eight hours with DJOC and your DJ prior to your wedding and actual performance time four to five hours.  The preparation time includes three hours of music consultation with DJOC and your DJ, one hour for the walk through and a two-hour block that is our set up time prior to the start time of your event. This is all done so at a rate of $995.00. 

DJOC wants to make sure that when we are performing in Washington DC, Northern Virginia, Baltimore or Philadelphia, that we provide the best possible service that you, the client, should receive for your event.  We work for both the DJ and you and to help insure that we can extend you a great cost, through this package, we handle more than 85% of all preparation prior so that our DJ’s, who have other jobs, can not only perform at a high level, but also insure that you receive the hands on attention to details that you deserve and expect. 

Our DJ’s are nine to five workers, just like you, and have to have complete dedication to their jobs during the week.  They do, however, fit time in their schedule to review what you have outlined in detail with your DJOC music consultant and when it is time for your face to fact with your professional DJ, all that remains is a complete and detailed review.  As a management agency we are the DJ’s assistant.  We are also your guide through the music planning process.  DJOC’s commitment to your event is unquestionable.  Michael Jackson had Frank Dileo, DJOC talented DJ’s have Aaron Couch and his experience management staff.  By using our approach we are able to give you a package that many will and do charge $1,500.00 plus at a cost that 33% less.

DJOC does have other packages do exceed that price, and are more hands on face to fact.  We will discuss those packages in our next blog as well as how and why the value is greater.

Contact Us Today!

Any event in which a client is using entertainment as a major focus point of the evening they want to be sure that they are getting what they seek.  Speaking prior to and meeting with possible candidates and options is a necessity.  In large metropolitan areas like Washington DC, arranging the meeting is not only time consuming but a draining administrative task in itself to both the client needing entertainment and the perspective entertainment source. 

 

DJOC is embracing new technologies and pushing aside standard and antiquated methods that are considered to be “how you should” vet your possible DJ, band or musician.  The client that has to travel thirty minutes through rush hour traffic eight miles from Rockville to Bethesda Maryland to sit and meet after spending another twenty minutes looking for a parking space is a thing of the past.  DJOC will begin using a new method of meeting and talking to clients that is beneficial to both their time and their event.  Not only will we be available to go online and discuss their event in complete detail, but we can also incorporate music links and timelines to insure that what we discuss, is what they want.

 

DJOC will enable the client the power to login for a meeting, look and speak to us in complete clarity with nearly zero latency in video and audio response, and be able to sample music and review timelines for their event.  All without having to get in their car and travel miles or wait for a weekend to fly into the city of their wedding or corporate event and run around and meet with a thousand vendors.  Our goal is to be highly prepared for your lounge, club, corporate, wedding or private party in a way that gives the client comfort and allows DJOC to extend savings they could have never imagined.

 

Many who are in the entertainment industry and who have done this a long time the “old fashion way” will say that this is impersonal and takes away from the DJ/Client relationship.  Those who are specific to weddings will say that “their brides” would never go for it!  DJOC disagrees and strongly believes that if you can save your bride unnecessary costs by eliminating excess cost in your packages, while still providing unbelievable service, quality, professionalism and talent, then they will not only be extremely happy, but thankful.

 

Savings and costs that we are able to extend with this new process are in package costs that account for gas, meeting consultations at our office and parking fees.  Also, the hours that are spent in preparing for an event will be cut tremendously because our consultations will be structured with an agenda the embraces need, want, understanding and action.

 

In our next posting we will be discussing how presenting the DJOC “Classic Package” via this method will show those needing a DJ in Washington DC, Northern Virginia and Maryland will be able to have comfort in this package, but also how this will give you assurance that DJOC is the obvious choice for your wedding, club, lounge, corporate and/or private event.

Talented DJ’s in the Washington DC area are in a constant struggle to prove their worth.  There is constant competition to beat out the next DJ.  Beating out the next doesn’t necessarily mean proving that you are a better entertainment option or talent.  What it means is that you can do the gig for a much lower price.  This is a sad fact and a major cause to falling of values such as ethics within our industry.

 

How is this a way for a premium talent to earn a living?  It’s not!  There is a difference between Patti LaBelle and Patti Lafontaine.  There is no comparing an incredible DJ who has tons of real references from event planners, promoters, bar managers, clients of affluence, etc., to a DJ who has just recently purchased a computer and some virtual mixing software along with a pair of “Junky But Loud” speakers.

 

If you take a DJ who has 20 years of experience in performing at weddings or performing at clubs, has a massive fan following and is incredibly talent, and then you compare their price to a newbie.  Well that is not only unfair to the talent, but it is also unfair to your upcoming event.  Comparing a Mercedes to a Toyota is unfair to both brands but to even ask a DJ, who has an impeccable resume to match pricing to an unknown commodity, is in one word, insulting.

 

There are items that a DJ with experience will address and approach that one who does not have the level of experience, will not.  Taking the time to ask questions that are not only important, but also imperative to the outcome you desire, is unique.  A DJ with incredible experience is going to put their DNA on your event in a manner that has spoken volumes for not only their achievements, but their dedication to insuring that your party is all that you desire and more.

Talented DJ’s in the Washington DC area are in a constant struggle to prove their worth.  There is constant competition to beat out the next DJ.  Beating out the next doesn’t necessarily mean proving that you are a better entertainment option or talent.  What it means is that you can do the gig for a much lower price.  This is a sad fact and a major cause to falling of values such as ethics within our industry.

 

How is this a way for a premium talent to earn a living?  It’s not!  There is a difference between Patti LaBelle and Patti Lafontaine.  There is no comparing an incredible DJ who has tons of real references from event planners, promoters, bar managers, clients of affluence, etc., to a DJ who has just recently purchased a computer and some virtual mixing software along with a pair of “Junky But Loud” speakers.

 

If you take a DJ who has 20 years of experience in performing at weddings or performing at clubs, has a massive fan following and is incredibly talent, and then you compare their price to a newbie.  Well that is not only unfair to the talent, but it is also unfair to your upcoming event.  Comparing a Mercedes to a Toyota is unfair to both brands but to even ask a DJ, who has an impeccable resume to match pricing to an unknown commodity, is in one word, insulting.

 

There are items that a DJ with experience will address and approach that one who does not have the level of experience, will not.  Taking the time to ask questions that are not only important, but also imperative to the outcome you desire, is unique.  A DJ with incredible experience is going to put their DNA on your event in a manner that has spoken volumes for not only their achievements, but their dedication to insuring that your party is all that you desire and more.

 

                                       

 

Hello everyone and welcome to another edition of DJ DC Profiles.This week we have one of the hottest and most talented DJ’s in the Washington DC area. DJ Ramzy.Incredibly talented, versatile and most importantly, he keeps the dance floor packed. He is a pure entertainer.

DJDC:

Over the past few years you have really developed a following in the Washington DC area. As you have created the “Ramzy Brand”, what was your focus, i.e., how did you want people to envision you?

DJR:

I wanted people to envision me as a generally nice guy, down to earth person who likes to have fun behind the decks. I have been told that people like my personality and it shows when I work. I love to take requests, get feedback from the crowd and answer questions that people have. I feel that early on, DJs get a bad rep from the general public because they are seen as “douchebags” or “assholes.” I like to be the nice guy; I like to show people that not all DJs are what you perceive them to be.

DJDC:

When working with promoters, what is your approach to ensure that you get what you want out of your performance and they get what they want?

DJR:

Well, performance-wise, what you get out of your performance is up to you. I don’t think it has much to do with the promoters. All in all, I think every DJ wants the promoters to pack the house with a great crowd but even if your show has 30 people, you can still have fun and have a great show. There is no way to ensure a show goes perfectly for promoters and DJs, if you’ve been in this industry long enough, you know that not every night can hit capacity but you try your best to make it happen. I guess every DJ wants the promoter to let them do what they want and work the crowd how they know how to and the promoter normally just wants you to promote a little for them to try to get your following to come out to see you.

DJDC:

What is your inspiration when you are playing at a place like Josephine’s on a Friday night? Meaning you know they are going to want it funky and hip as opposed to doing a networking or happy hour at the Roof Top in Rockville?

DJR:

Well that’s what I love about being a diverse DJ. I can make a happy hour fun and funky just like I can bump any venue in DC. Happy hours are great, you can build the atmosphere, start out with some classics, go into 80s, 90s, Motown, and as the drinks kick in, you can almost play it like a club in DC. I LOVE being able to drop songs like “Sweet Child Of Mine” into “I Wear My Sunglasses At Night” and not having everyone look at you like you’re crazy. I often forget that people don’t know classics as much as you want them to so playing for an older crowd that can appreciate the classics is really fun. Also, normally, people don’t expect a DJ to be mixing it up so much at a happy hour or networking event so the element of surprise is really fun for me. I often have people just come stare at what I do because they don’t believe the music they are hearing is coming from me.

DJDC:

You are a very versatile DJ, you are able to mix it up at all sorts of events. Bars, Lounges, Private, Weddings, etc. Do you have perspective clients that see you in one setting and immediately feel that is what you will bring to another? How do you deal?

DJR:

I’ll be honest, I have had some clients that when I do their weddings, they are a bit hesitant because they think I only do clubs but they forget I’ve been doing mobile events (weddings, mitzvahs, private parties, corporate parties) for 8 years now. I normally deal with it by giving them references, my former clients are more than happy to refer me to anyone. I’ve helped plan weddings, I’ve also walked into weddings with absolutely no info on the event and I am forced to wing it, ultimately doing a great job. Each part of the spectrum works for me, I’m comfortable in any environment.

DJDC:

What are your thoughts on the club scene in DC as opposed to Baltimore? What is the vibe and which one seems to have more choices?

DJR:

Well, I’ve honestly never been clubbing in Baltimore. I’m a DC guy (go skins, caps & nats!) so I can’t really say. I can’t imagine Baltimore has more choices than DC though. DC is PACKED with lounges/bars/clubs that each have their own feel. I love this city.

DJDC:

What is your approach to doing a wedding?

DJR:

Normally, I’ll sit down with the bride and groom and sometimes the wedding planner about a month or so before the wedding and plan out what’s going to happen at what time and what song needs to be playing and when. I’ll make sure I have the pronunciation of all the bridal party’s names correct and sometimes spell them out phonetically. I’ll often suggest something fun or different to do during the walk-in to the reception, the brides and grooms love this by the way. When the big day hits, I just do what I’ve been doing for years, play great music, get the crowd laughing during certain events and get the crowd dancing when the dance floor is open. In all my years, I’ve never had a single complaint at a wedding… I take pride in that.

DJDC:

There are many DJ’s who are specialists. Some are turntablists, some are drum and bass freaks, some are techno heads. Do you feel that just specializing in one genre or approach limits you as a DJ or do feel that helps you focus more on bringing light to that specific area of the industry?

DJR:

Well, yes and no. It limits you but it makes you really good at that specific genre. For example, when I play house, you can tell I’m not a house DJ. I do everything house DJs don’t, I mix too fast, I scratch. When a house DJ plays house, they really know what they’re doing because that’s all they know but I do feel that it limits them. You’re not gonna ask a house DJ to spin at your wedding or at your hip-hop club, are you? Of course not. What I like about being so open format and versatile is that I can play a bunch of different venues. For example, Barcode, I do international Thursday nights. I play a bunch of international music from around the globe. Friday night, I DJed the main floor of Ozio which is almost straight hip-hop and finally, Saturday night, I DJed Ultrabar, Chroma. It’s mash-up, top 40, house, hip-hop and international music all night. It’s fun to go through all the genres in a week, keeps you on your toes.

DJDC:

What are your favorite spots in DC to perform and why?

• Barcode (17^th & L) – Great environment, crowd, atmosphere. It’s a great bar, great restaurant and great lounge, it’s everything you want in a venue. www.barcodedc.com
• Ultrabar (911 F St.) – Straight club atmosphere, rated #1 in DC for dance floor action. Nothing is going on there but drinking and dancing, you know what to expect and the crowd is always fun. www.ultrabardc.com
• Lima (14^th & K) – INSANE sound system with a killer dancefloor and great light system. I’ve only DJed at Lima a couple times but I loved it.www.limaloungedc.com

DJDC:

Have you had an opportunity to do any festivals, large outdoor events and if so, where and what was the energy like?

DJR:

Only one event, it was the Rock the House Festival at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds in Gaithersburg, MD. I DJed for Pitbull, Ludacris, EPMD, Methodman, Redman, the WuTang Clan, Baby Bash and more.It was really cool to be behind the scene and hop up on stage to DJ when needed. My favorite part of the event was when I did a live remix on stage and the emcee (Wood from the WuTang Clan) and the crowd were like “WHOA!” The reaction was awesome. When I did go into the crowd, people were noticing me and saying how I did a good job, it was fun. I did learn what to play and what not to play before a big artist comes on stage, so it was a learning experience as well.

DJDC:

Who are some of the DJ’s and artists that have influenced you, your style and your desires to entertain? 

DJR:

Well, I’ll be honest and chronological here. When I started, my uncle who trained me to DJ was a big influence, he taught me the basics of DJing, music selection, how to mix, when to mix, how to keep a beat.Once I got that down, I listened a lot to Power 96 (Miami radio station) because their DJs really mixed their asses off every day haha. As I grew older and was out on the road late at night, I would listen to Chris Styles on Hot 99.5 on my way home from mobile events and listened to him, getting a feel for DC nightlife. As I grew and really appreciated DJing for what it was, DJ Enferno was (and still is) my idol.He took DJing to an entirely new level and opened my eyes (and ears) to a new world. Locally, DJ Saam (nohomo) is my favorite; he gives his shows 110% every time and really has dedication and appreciation for his craft. I look up to him not only as a DJ but as a person and I honestly study the crap out of him at every show. Just when you think you’ve seen him at his best, he blows you away at the next show.

DJDC:

What is your definition of a true DJ and why?

DJR:

This is a tough and simple question to answer at the same time.Personally (and I hope no one takes offense) I think a true DJ is one that can look at a crowd and know what to play and how to mix the tracks to keep the people going crazy all night. Anybody can put on an iTunes playlist or take requests or put together a set at home and just press play, but a DJ will mix tracks live, read the crowd and interact with the crowd and share their excitement with the crowd through their music and style.

I want to thank you Ramzy for keeping the mindset tight as well as keeping a professional approach to the industry. Continue to prosper and hopefully we will get another chance to sit down with you soon before the holiday season kicks in as we truly want to know where you will be playing for New Year’s Eve!

 

Welcome everyone to our first edition of “DJ Washington DC Talents & Profiles”. For our inaugural issue we have selected Don “D-Lux” Ashford. DJ D-Lux is originally from Philadelphia and you can instantly tell from his approach to turntablism and his understanding of various genres and sub-genres of music. He is able to entertain you for either several minutes with a display of turntable technics that are on the level of DJ Q-Bert as well as being able to keep a wedding, club, lounge or private event’s dance floor filled for hours. I was lucky enough that he was able to take the time and sit down with us and provide us with some insight on who he is, why he loves what he does and what you should expect out of him for any of his performances.

DJ Washington DC (DJDC): 

People come to DJ Washington DC for education on our industry and to obtain a professional perspective from talented and experienced DJ’s. That being said, how long have you been a DJ and what aspect of your talent defines who you are as an entertainer?

D-Lux (DL):

I’ve been DJ'ing since 1988. I believe in giving a show, which I believe most DJ's in this profession today do not believe in that. I never sit down, stop my mix, or pause (unless the client wants me to). My music flows in transition. I take this seriously. Most of my clients/audience can feel my energy when they hear me.I know my music. I know all genres of music. I remember once upon a time you had to earn the title “DJ”. Now cats today download music and call themselves a “DJ”. I hear some of these DJ’s today play and it just irks me to hear them spin today. No respect for the ones who influenced the art form from the past and present.

DJDC:

You are an incredible turntabelist. When I hear you perform it seems as if those Philadelphia influences of Cash Money, Miz and of course my man Jazzy Jeff, seem to show in your approach, when entertaining at a club or lounge how do you incorporate that into a set:

DL:

Being from Philly, I came up listening to these guys.They are major influences in my style. When Jazzy Jeff did “Live At Union Square”, I studied that set over and over until I was able to get my transformer cuts to sound like his. When I heard Cash scratch on “Ugly People Please Be Quite”, I was at aw with his smooth cuts. And when DJ Miz cut up “Peter Piper [by Run DMC] on “We Don’t Play” Every DJ in Philly wanted to learn that scratch! To name a few others, DJ Jay-Ski, Cosmic Kev and Lightning Rich. These DJ’s are still doing their thing.I like to hear my crowd go “Awhhhh” on the dance floor. I love it when I’m scratching or doing something and it makes someone bob their head really hard. I love to flip the old with the new. Old School Parties; I love spinning old Hip-Hop, R&B, Breaks, House and Jazz.These guys are one of the best that ever done that.

DJDC:

When you are contacted by a perspective client and they ask you, “What is your DJ style”. Is that a question that irks you because of your versatility? I ask that question because here at DJ Washington DC we tend to rephrase that question because, based on our experience, presentation of the question in that manner stereotypes DJ’s as either a club, wedding, mitzvah, lounge, house, etc., type of DJ. Would you agree and how do you handle such questions:

DL:

Oh I definitely agree. I believe that the business made it that way. And on the flip side, I think the consumer is trying to figure out what they are getting before they hire the DJ. Craziest gig I have done out of my element was a country western party in the late 90’s. People looked at me while I was setting up and they were questioning whether or not I knew anything about Country Music. Truth is…I didn’t! I got a friend who was heavy into country music to give me a list of songs. I played off that list, took requests, flowed into disco and killed the night. Truth is, if you’re a good DJ, you should be able to overcome any element or environment. The correct way to approach a DJ is to tell them what kind of party you are having and what you want played. Then the DJ could tell you if they’re comfortable playing for your party.

DJDC:

Instead of trying to understand your style, can you help us to understand your approach for performing a wedding for a couple in their early 30’s who (how can I say this and be politically correct) has bank and compare that approach to doing a club or lounge spot in DC that has a tendency to lean towards Top 40 & Hip Hop:

DL:

Well with any wedding I do, I ask detailed questions on what the client wants. Sometimes the client doesn’t know what should go on or needs assistance. I’m experienced with doing weddings. Different things happen at each wedding. It’s a special day for the client, so you should be very specific as possible in what the customer wants. I go into details as to figuring out what songs, dances and other events do they want during their wedding. Club environment, it’s easy because you just play what’s hot. You read your crowd and figure it out. At a wedding, you gotta keep it traditional, but yet provide what the client wants. Then read your crowd once everyone gets loose and then play towards your crowd. A good DJ should know when to switch things up.

DJDC:

I want to go back to the question on preparing for a gig, but I want to add a slight twist. What if you have a couple with different backgrounds who are infatuated with artists such as Bon-Jovi, Beatles, Michael Jackson, Flo-Rida, Nat King Cole, Louis Armstrong, Maroon Five & Notorious B.I.G. and during the week you are playing a residence gig where they want nothing but Cameo, Parliament, and 80’s Hip Hop:

DL:

I can do it all! I know my music! When the client gives me a song request list, that give’s me the feel for what kind of music that should be played at the party. There are a lot of DJ’s that can’t be versatile. Why should they call themselves a DJ? Not saying you should know everything, but you should learn how to adapt to your environment musically.

DJDC:

When growing up, what about being a DJ embraced you and when you got your first set of turntables, what was that feeling? I remember when I got my first set of 1200’s, not my first turntables, but my first 1200’s, man that feeling was like, “yes, I am now officially in the DJ game”. Talk about that day and describe in every detail the euphoria of the moment.

DL:

Awh man……..I learned from straight arm turntables…Putting nickels on the head and stuffing tissue under the tone arm. Man 1200’s use to be $800 a pair! I had a friend who I grew up with in North Philly who was a DJ in the early 80’s. I used to walk blocks to use his and practice in his basement. His famous scratch was a basic military scratch. When I got on his tables and did some transformers, he was like “OK little D, I see you” while he was holding a 40 ounce in his hand. When I got my own, dang…..I was soooooo happy because I have wanted them for years! I REFUSE to go away from my 1200’s. They’re just my standard. No offense to the ones who use different. Hey as long as you do your thing, I got no problems with that.

DJDC:

How would you describe the club scene in DC as compared with those of other major markets such as New York, Philadelphia, Chicago and Miami? I always tend to tell people that within those particular markets it is about the DJ and that those are DJ markets. DC is a Club market where they push the club more than the entertainment. What are your thoughts:

DL:

It is very different. For one, the people that come to the party are different. In Philly, they walk in and start dancing. In DC, I find that people have to see who’s there first before they get on the floor (just kidding).It’s all about the music. Up north, they don’t particularly care for Go Go Music like DC does. But if you go south of Virginia, they love it. I can go to DC and know what to play. I can go to Philly, New York, New Jersey and know what to play. Like you said, it’s all about the DJ.

DJDC:

Now, I really want you to think on this one because this is important in not only how you perform, but how you also prepare for your clients. What do you want clients to remember most about you and your performance: 

DL:

That I am a real, true good DJ. I am a show. I’m a professional that brings it! And they would hire me again. I take criticism seriously. If my friend tells me he didn’t particularly like what I played that night, I would get offended! I think a lot of these today DJ’s are lazy and just want to make a dollar. Hey I don’t knock that.But if you just want to set up your iPods, or you just want to play songs one by one, then call yourself an entertainer….not a DJ. Earn the title! The game needs to get back to that.

DJDC:

I always have to emphasize versatility in being a DJ, because you are an artist. However, all artists have aspirations. That being said, if you had the opportunity to play at any arena, club, lounge or venue in the world, where would it be and most importantly, why:

DL:

I would love to perform more overseas. Overseas they have a strong love for Real DJ’s. The atmosphere is crazy different. I’ve done it one time and I would love to go back. Here in the states, anywhere in Vegas because it’s always a party there J

DJDC:

Here is a final question that I am sure will provoke some additional thought. If you had the chance to correct an event in the past, weather it was good or bad, which event would it be and why would you change it and for what reason:

DL:

I was in high school and this girl wanted to hire me at a rec center around the corner from Gratz High School in Philly. I didn’t go record shopping. I didn’t have the latest anything. And my speaker blew out. She called somebody else to DJ the party. I was so mad; I packed my stuff up not knowing that I had left my 1200’s in there. My dad was rushing me to hurry up. Man I was sooo mad. Wish I could have that night back til this day! I should have waited until I got my things right with my music and equipment.

DJDC:

No my man, she is wishing she had that day back because she could have D-Lux at a reduced rate!:) I want to thank you and I also want people to know how to get in contact with you via DJ Washington DC. Keep rocking my man and making it happen!

The Washington, D.C., Northern Virginia, and Maryland region is a hotbed for gatherings that make use of DJ’s—from corporate galas to weddings to private house parties. That’s because people realize that no matter what the occasion is, music makes the event.

There’s no way around it—even if all the other details are pulled off to perfection, music that bothers or bores the crowd will ruin any festive mood. On the flip side, if the music is the right fit, if it gets people feeling good—tapping their feet, snapping their fingers and up out of their chairs dancing—chances are the guests will go home happy.

It’s crucial to hire a DJ who can supply a spot-on mix of music, without any technical glitches, while bringing truly personalized entertainment to the party. When looking for the right DJ for an event, the following factors should be considered:

• Reliability—DJ’s should have a demonstrated history of dependability. After all, if the DJ is late setting up or isn't even there when the event starts, all the good planning in the world goes down the drain.

• Versatility—DJ’s need to be skilled at working the type of event being planned. They also need to be extremely familiar with the type of music the client wants played. Companies like Disc Jockeys On Call (DJOC), which have a large team of DJ’s with expertise in all types of events and music, can ensure the right DJ for the job.

• Talent—DJ’s must have extensive knowledge of music and a natural sense of how to use it. They have to be able to read a crowd and the atmosphere of an event and adjust what they play accordingly. They must be engaging and personable. The bottom line is that they must be able to entertain.

• Professionalism—DJ’s should be consummate professionals in how they conduct themselves. They should exude competence, confidence, and a commitment to please clients and their guests. Seek out DJ’s in the D.C./Northern Virginia/Maryland region who are part of an established professional agency that also is a management company, such as DJOC.

• Experience—Music is not the part of an event to take a chance on with fly-by-night operators. An established DJ agency affords the peace of mind that comes with knowing that the music is being handled by proven DJ’s with seasoned musical judgment.

• Understanding—DJ’s should insist on getting to know the musical tastes of the client and the expected crowd—before the event! They should take the time to understand the event schedule and what music will be needed when. They should figure out exactly what “good” looks like for the client, and that’s what they should deliver.

DEVELOP A MUSIC PROFILE

Since 2001, DJOC has been providing DJ services for events in Washington, D.C., Northern Virginia, Baltimore, Bethesda, Rockville, Columbia, Potomac Eastern Shore and other Maryland markets. DJOC takes understanding the client seriously, and our “music profiles” are at the heart of our concept. Much like developing a psychological profile, we work with our clients to develop their music profile and select the right DJ for them. Clients are never shuffled off to a DJ with no opportunity to consult with us about what they desire. We never make assumptions.

Whether our client is an event planner, a D.C. area destination management company, a bride, a school official, a club owner, or an individual throwing a party, DJOC makes sure to know what music genre or genres they like and the makeup of their expected guests. We break down the evening’s schedule and learn what they want and when. We are obsessive about understanding what will dazzle our clients, and the more we know about a client and the crowd, the better the show.

Therefore, we provide in-person and/or phone consultations with clients (sometimes multiple consultations depending on the selected package) to determine their "entertainment identity” so we can establish their music profile and select the best entertainment for their event. We have the musical knowledge and selection to develop programs that will please the most mixed of crowds at any type of event, regardless of their musical taste, or even their nationality. We specialize in using “bridges in music genres” to help clients select music that will please everyone.

COVER ALL THE BASES

DJOC’s prices range from $495 to $4,995, depending on the scope of what the client wants. Regardless of the event, our DJ will arrive two hours before it starts to set up. We understand that reliability is absolutely essential. Planning an event can be highly stressful—our job is to take away that stress, not to add to it.

As we consult with clients, we prepare a “gig sheet,” which includes the music selection, information about what type of event it is, special equipment requests, and other requests. If DJ microphone work is involved, we make sure to have the correct name pronunciation. It’s our commitment to getting details like that right that distinguishes us as professionals.

As part of our process, the DJ for each event contacts the client to go over expectations and cover any last-minute details or requests. We want our clients’ events to succeed as much as they do.

SEEK OUT THE BEST

When selecting a DJ, it pays to do research and ask if a particular DJ company unquestionably provides all of the things you should require. All DJ’s in the D.C./Northern Virginia/Maryland market are not created equal. There are many DJ’s in D.C. and the surrounding areas who are talented and have strong knowledge of music but aren’t dedicated to working with clients to give them precisely what they want.

DJOC never makes that mistake. We know people don’t respond to music they don’t like. Our goal is to make people dance and for them to leave the event with smiles on their faces. We are in the business of good times, and we develop and execute a plan to ensure that’s exactly what our clients and their guests have.

No one should expect anything less when selecting a DJ.

Talent Profiles Each Week!

Washington DC has some of the most talented and unique musicians on the planet. These musicians approach their passion with an attitude that pushes them to perfection and beyond. They understand their goal, their audience and are determined to entertain them. Many times this is done for hours on end and without a single break or a stop in energy. The excitement that is generated from their detailed precision and execution of tracks at 110, 115, 125 and sometimes 130 beats per minute (BPM) or greater makes them the center of attention. Yes, they are the center of attention, even if they are usually just heard and not scene. You have males and females who go beyond just their physical look and imposing presence, but they also know that if they do not do a good job, then you are not going to request to hear them again, and again.

My purpose of this blog is to get you to take notice and understand how they think, why they love what they do and for you to see the actual value in what they do. There are countless, and I do mean countless, of people who think that these musicians can be replaced by simply loading up all of your favorite music cuts on an mp3 player or iPod and hit shuffle. Hmmph, if it was that easy then Las Vegas would have iPod docks in all their clubs and Steve Jobs would be the number one artists in the world! We are talking about people with an incredible ear for knowing what is good, no, let me scratch that, what is funky, and I mean James Brown, Parliament, Rolling Stones, Dennis Ferrer, Dr. Dre funky, to the masses! They know, from the electricity in the air what is going to make a group of 1,000 drop and do the “Cupid Shuffle” or throw their hands “left, right, left, right” as well as “jump and wave” to “Follow the Leader”. They will get an entire crowd to say yeah in unison at the hottest clubs in Washington DC, Baltimore and Northern Virginia. Why? Because they, and by now you should know I mean Disc Jockeys, are musicians.

I had a bandleader say to me once, at a networking event for non-profits, that being a DJ is easy. I nearly punched him the mouth Mike Tyson style. Although I play the saxophone, never would I dismiss someone and their profession. Who is this guy? Not anyone that we wish to acknowledge here at DJ Washington DC or at Disc Jockeys On Call. You can also be sure that they will not be a featured talent in the upcoming months. THEIR IGNORANCE IS WHY ENTERTAINERS GET DEGRADED TIME IN AND OUT! This is done by various people and institutions in the area that want the most out of their investments but are constantly squeezing the creative juices out of DJ’s. You can’t put professionals with amateurs and now, your entertainment has become your weakest link. That is an absolute fact that you can take to the bank.

Now, let’s move past the venting segment of this post and get on to the primary purpose. I want each and every one of you to begin following our blog because beginning each and every Monday, starting September 5^th of this year, we will feature a DJ talent who works and resides in the Washington DC area. We will interview them and have them to provide a true and unique perspective on what they do, their approach to different types of events and why you should consider their services. Yes, this is a very exciting time at DJOC and we are looking forward to your being a part of this incredible experience. Who will be the first DJ profiled? Check us out on September 5^th to find out!

Questions ask by Kim Foster of Washingtonian Magazine

If it Were up to me and I had clients that had a wide range of music tastes and appreciated various genres and subgenres of music, my approach to creating their music profile would have to be very complimentary. After several music consultations I would put in place a set of songs that are unique to them and are great identifiers as to who they are as not only a couple, but as aficionados of great music. Let’s say that we have established all of that and we have a couple that loves the sounds of such artists as Diana Krall, Nat King Cole, Michael Jackson, Van Morrison, Lady Gaga, Eminem, etc. In other words, if it is good, they want it and with that being said, please note the following:

Bridal Party Entrance

Now That We Found Love by Heavy D & The Boyz

I would go with the instrumental version because it is easy to identify and it has so much energy. It is also a song that is loved by young and old and all in between; it says, we are here to party and you can stop us

Couple's Entrance

September by Earth, Wind & Fire

The beginning of this song has a great place where you can segue from the bridal party to bride and groom. While you are asking everyone to stand and get ready, the song is building up in the background and when I finally announce the bride and groom, the horns compliment the moment perfectly!

First Dance

Let’s Fall In Love by Diana Krall or More by Nat King Cole

I selected these two because when I present these options to clients they go back and forth. These are two great songs that many have never considered because they are unaware of their presence. The lyrics in both songs are simply beautiful

Father/Daughter Dance

I Do Love You by GQ

This should always be a song that Dad sings to his daughter. It is a song that I sing now to my daughter and she just smiles when I sing I sing it to her. So, when that day comes, I know what I am going to dance to with my baby girl.

Mother/Son Dance

Pride & Joy by Marvin Gaye

Once again, this is a song that my mom and my grandmother use to sing to me. It is a song that is upbeat and is universally recognized. It is also defines a mother’s love for her son as well as a father’s love for his son. It also is not used as much as I believe it should. Hopefully, you will think about using this for your wedding as I am sure that everyone, including yourself, will remember your special day.

Cake Cutting Song

Mr. Magic by Grover Washington, Jr.

This is a funky jazz cut that is smooth and identifiable by both young and old. It has a way of segueing from heavy dancing to the bride and groom cutting the cake while still creating the ambiance that they desire and keeping the energy upbeat, hip and cool to finish the evening strong on the dance floor, as the couple desires.

Song to Play During Dinner

Fever by Peggy Lee

Classic! This allows everyone to eat, mingle and chat, but it also, when played after the first course, allows those who want to dance, to get up and enjoy the dance floor as if they were on the set of movie starring Gene Kelley. It is an absolute must play with a client that enjoys all styles and forms of music.

Song to Get Everyone on the Dance Floor

Play That Funky Music by Wild Cherry

It just works! The guitar riff, the bass line and the pure funky/disco sound is so identifiable that it makes you proceed to the dance floor without hesitation. Once again, a song that is enjoyed by all, and I do mean all!

Slow Song

You Send Me by Sam Cooke

A great song that says all that one needs to tell the person they love. It is pure poetry and the music compliments the lyrics so well that 100 years from now when people read this, they will think that it was wrote recently. This song is timeless.

Last Dance

Ever Lasting Love by Natalie Cole

I love this song so much because it says it all, it comes in smooth and you feel the energy from not only the lyrics, but also from the piano. It says to everyone in attendance that the couple is going to have exactly what the title states. You just can’t wrong with this one and you are sure to have everyone leaving the reception thanking you for choosing such great entertainment.