Once A DJ

Get in touch: onceadjpodcast at gmail.com or https://www.instagram.com/onceadjpodcast/A fresh update from the host of Once A DJ reveals a period of quietude due to personal circumstances, but excitement looms on the horizon with intriguing guests already lined up for the upcoming year. The host shares a candid acknowledgment of the challenges faced recently, including illness and fatigue, which is a common experience during this time of year. Yet, this reflective moment serves not only as an update but also as a call to the audience for engagement. The host expresses a desire to delve into the fascinating world of record collecting through listener-contributed stories, highlighting the unique experiences that can arise from digging for records. Listeners are encouraged to share their own memorable tales, whether they be humorous, poignant, or surprising, as the host recounts personal anecdotes that illustrate the unexpected treasures and encounters that can come from seeking out music. These stories, filled with personal triumphs and humorous mishaps, underscore the communal spirit of the podcast, inviting listeners to participate in the narrative. The episode promises a forthcoming compilation of these stories, providing an opportunity for fans to not only connect with the host but also with each other, creating a richer tapestry of the record-collecting journey. As the host gears up for a new season, the excitement builds around the potential for a vibrant exchange of experiences, with a shout-out to the community for their contributions, reinforcing the idea that every record collector has a story worth sharing. This episode serves as a bridge between the past year's reflections and the future's possibilities, setting the stage for a dynamic interaction that celebrates the passion for music and the stories that accompany it.

This episode features an engaging conversation with Wax On and his guest DJ Hudson, who share insights about their experiences in the world of DJing and music culture. They discuss the evolution of DJing, from the challenges of lugging around vinyl records to the convenience of digital setups like Serato. The conversation touches on the importance of community and mentorship within the DJ scene, highlighting how personal connections can lead to opportunities and growth. They also reflect on the impact of notable record shops and influential figures in their musical journeys, emphasizing the significance of sharing knowledge and music. With anecdotes about memorable gigs and the intricacies of curating a set, this episode offers a rich exploration of the art of DJing and the camaraderie it fosters among artists.Reaching the milestone of 50 episodes, the Once A DJ podcast presents an engaging discussion between Wax on and his DJ Hudson, whose influence on Hudson's DJing journey is both profound and personal. The episode opens with a nostalgic recollection of their early musical experiences in Leicester, where they were surrounded by a wealth of genres, thanks to their extensive family backgrounds. The guest's stories of growing up with an eclectic mix of records set the tone for a conversation rich in shared memories and musical history, laying the groundwork for the exploration of the evolution of DJing. As they reminisce, the two delve into the complexities and challenges of the DJing profession, discussing the transition from traditional vinyl to digital platforms like Serato. Hudson candidly shares his struggles with confidence during performances, often leaning on his guest for support in moments of self-doubt. This candid exchange highlights the importance of mentorship and community in the DJ world, reinforcing that the journey is often filled with ups and downs. The guest reflects on their own experiences of navigating the music scene, including memorable gigs, the vibrant Derby nightlife, and the nuances of performing at weddings, where balancing crowd favorites with personal expression becomes crucial. The conversation takes a contemporary turn as they assess the current state of DJing, particularly in relation to social media's impact on the craft. They discuss the need for authenticity and genuine connection in an increasingly performative landscape, where DJs often feel the pressure to present a certain image. The episode concludes with a powerful message about the essence of DJing as a lifelong journey of exploration, creativity, and connection, encouraging listeners to embrace their individuality and passion for music, regardless of the evolving trends in the industry.Takeaways: This episode celebrates the 50th episode milestone of the Once A DJ podcast, marking a significant achievement. DJing is a labor of love, with artists balancing personal passion and audience enjoyment. Understanding music history and sampling enhances a DJ's performance and connection with audiences. The evolution of DJing technology, like Serato, has transformed how DJs prepare sets. Mentorship plays a crucial role in a DJ's development, influencing their style and approach. Collective environments, such as cooperative radio stations, foster community and creativity among DJs. Links referenced in this episode:love.willsavetheday.fmdiscogs.comMentioned in this episode:Reissued classics from Be With RecordsGet 10% off at bewithrecords.com using the code ONCEADJ

New release: https://bbemusic.com/product/dj-andy-smith-presents-reach-up-disco-wonderland-vol-3https://www.instagram.com/djandysmith/https://www.mixcloud.com/DJAndySmith/https://www.facebook.com/djandysmithofficialAndy Smith, a prominent DJ and producer, shares his journey through the world of music, starting from his early fascination with mixing records in the late 70s to becoming a key figure in the Bristol music scene. He discusses how his passion for diverse genres influenced his eclectic DJ style, emphasizing that mixing records was not just a technical skill but an art form that creates unique experiences for audiences. The conversation touches on the challenges of adapting to the digital age, where music consumption has become more disposable and less intimate, leading to a shift in how mixes are perceived. Smith reflects on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on his career, noting how it forced him to reevaluate his approach and find new ways to connect with audiences, including live streaming. As he looks to the future, Andy is excited about upcoming projects, including a mix that showcases his love for soundtracks and lesser-known hip hop tracks, reaffirming his commitment to keeping the essence of DJing alive.Takeaways: Andy Smith discusses how he got into DJing in the late 70s by following the emerging disco culture and mixing records in Bristol. The importance of being open to various music genres is highlighted, as Andy explains how his diverse taste influences his DJing style. Smith recalls the challenges of learning to mix without much guidance, relying on a library book to understand DJ techniques. The podcast delves into how the rise of technology and streaming has changed the perception and practice of DJing among younger audiences. Andy shares anecdotes about his experiences DJing across different cities and the unique record digging opportunities that arose during tours. The conversation touches on the impact of COVID-19 on the music industry, particularly how it affected DJing opportunities and personal finances. Mentioned in this episode:Reissued classics from Be With RecordsGet 10% off at bewithrecords.com using the code ONCEADJ

Self-awareness is crucial for making decisions that align with your creative goals and identity, a theme explored in this update episode. After a longer-than-usual break between recordings, the host reflects on the importance of understanding one’s path as a DJ and creative. They discuss the impact of accepting gigs or projects that don’t resonate with one’s vision, highlighting how these choices can lead to a loss of passion and authenticity. The episode also contrasts the unique demands faced by resident DJs versus artist DJs, emphasizing the sacrifices often necessary to pursue a creative career. Ultimately, the host encourages listeners to make choices that respect both tangible and intangible benefits, ensuring their next steps align with their true selves and ambitions.