2008 Mobile Beat DJ Show and Conference for the ADJA

The recently concluded 2008 Mobile Beat DJ Show and Conference represented a phenomenal showing for The American Disc Jockey Association. As a major sponsor for the event, the ADJA was everywhere! DJs started arriving into town days before as they began to get comfortable with the newly remodeled Riviera Hotel and Casino located right on the Las Vegas strip.

As many early arrivals started to travel about the new multi-million dollar Riviera Conference Center, it became quite apparent very early on that this years conference was about to become something very special. The ADJA was quick to get things started Monday morning by hosting our second annual ADJA Leadership Training Day. Dozens of ADJA Chapter Directors from across the country were represented as a full day of sessions commenced that addressed everything from monthly meeting content to chapter development. The response, training and motivation set the perfect course for the remainder of the week.

Tuesday morning saw more than 1000 DJs converge upon the conference center as the welcome announcement and subsequent dialog surprised industry leader Mark Ferrell with a very deserving Lifetime Achievement Award. The appreciative audience gave Mr. Ferrell a standing ovation. The keynote was given by famed Guerrilla Marketing originator Jay Conrad Levinson. The response to his presentation, along with other first day seminars from Randy Bartlett and Peter Merry, was among the most favorable opening day starts the Mobile Beat DJ Show has ever seen. The buzz was electric.

The ADJA National Meeting wrapped up the days events as a detailed scripted program got underway to an audience of more than 500 DJs. The program included awards, giveaways, the year in review, the announcement of the Mitzvah Guild and strategic alliances with NACE, The Knot and special recognition of sponsors and programs relevent to the progression of the organization. The continuance of programs such as our highly acclaimed “webinars” along with free website templates and hosting for all members were excitedly received by everyone in attendence. So too, did the continual tone that shaped our vision for the future. This seemed to resonate very well with the audience. The inclusion of newly created “success story” testimonials afforded a uniquely personal touch unlike anything ever enjoyed at one of our national meetings. The meeting continued with many unique elements that broke new ground for the ADJA. An unavoidable delayed start combined with some well received off-scripted moments added to what was probably the most lengthy, but most information-packed national meeting our organization has ever enjoyed.

Next, it was time to unwind as the ADJA was represented once again as a contributing sponsor to the Tuesday night concert featuring Freedom Williams and Tone Loc. These two hip hop icons gave an entertaining performance of their hits to a standing room only crowd. It bears mentioning that as a sponsor we were unaware the on-stage verbal tone would become as contentious as it did. Though the excessive use of profanity was unexpected and out-of-our-control . . . we still wish to take this opportunity to apologize to any of our members who may have been offended by this continual use of expletives. Obviously, sponsoring events of this nature is something we will have to look at very closely in the future as it can reflect poorly on any industry sponsor.

Wednesday saw the opening of the exhibit floor. This is where the culmination of being a major show sponsor and having a tremendously informative national meeting came together to elevate our organization to its true potential as the nations leading association for mobile DJs. Our exhibit hall booth was packed for two straight days. Not only was our booth busier than any other trade show we have been at . . . it remained one of the busiest booths of the entire show. The response was phenomenal as we experienced record sign-ups of over 100 DJs. I would like to extend my personal “thanks” on behalf of a greatful organization for the many directors, officers and members who “stepped up” to assist our efforts in our booth.

It bears mentioning that the seminar line-up at this years event was probably the best of all time. Since the inception of the Mobile Beat Conferences we have probably never seen a speaker line-up that so greatly included members within our organization. Yes, we have come a long way from the early days when we were happy to be occasionally mentioned or recognized at a seminar. It really helps demonstrate that the ADJA has been embraced by the overwhelming majority of industry leaders. Seminars from; Randy Bartlett, Lisa and Peter Merry, Larry Williams, Mike Walter, Ken Day, Manny Otero and others set an example to many onlookers of the proud nature and standard that accompanies membership in the ADJA.

I would like to thank Denon for their generous sponsorship of our final day giveaway as two Denon HD2500 units were raffled off to newly signed up members. This was a fantastic way to conclude the best Mobile Beat Conference we have ever participated in. So many members, sponsors, cooperative partners and people discovering the ADJA for the very first time came together to embrace our vision of unity and progression for mobile DJs and our industry. I truly believe we will all look back on this particular event as a milestone inclusion for our organization. I am confident it will be remembered as one that set a significant positive tone of unity in our efforts to become an organization that is known for our sincere efforts to help DJ build and grow their business.

It certainly is testament to our mission statement . . . if we work together, imagine what we can do!

Diversification: Key To Profits by James Derosa

Taking your business to the next level means offereing more than just the basicsThis year I passed my 29th year as a DJ. I’ve worked as both a club and event DJ and have seen many changes and advancements in our profession. In the beginning it was a fringe business that few people acknowledged and understood. However, over the past decade it has grown into an established industry that has been attracting new business people each year.

Like other growing industries throughout history, it has begun to mature and change. Also, competition has increased dramatically and DJs all over the country have started feeling the crunch of a tougher market with shrinking margins.

This is very common; every up-and-coming sector of business has struggled with it. It’s happened in the automobile business, computers, telecommunications and many others. As a sector becomes better known and understood, many more entrepreneurs try their luck and the market becomes saturated. Increasing competition drives down prices and squeezes profits.

It’s a fact of business that cannot be avoided. The only way to handle it is to be able to change and grow with the industry as it changes and grows. Anyone who cannot adapt will not survive. Watching and reacting to the trends that drive an industry will show you how to adapt, and if you watch very closely you will see them before everyone else. The sooner you react and change, the more of the market you will capture and the more money you will make. It’s just that simple.

Simple, yes…but not easy. It requires a completely new way of looking at your business. For years I thought of myself first as a nightclub DJ, then as a wedding and event DJ. When I turned 40 I began to feel that, possibly, I was reaching the end of my days as a DJ and began to look at my business differently. I realized that I had learned a great deal about the event business over the previous two decades and that my knowledge was certainly worth quite a bit. Most of my performing had been at weddings and, as an MC and DJ, I had worked closely with hundreds of brides and grooms. I, also, realized that I had been working with many live music companies, photography studios, video production companies, florists and other event companies to help them increase their success. I had helped them grow their businesses; it was time to grow my own.

Are You Self-Employed or a Business Owner?

A few years ago I read a book called Cash Flow Quadrant by Robert Kiyosaki, the author of Rich Dad, Poor Dad. In this book he makes a great point that many “business owners” are really just self-employed people that are more interested in writing business to keep themselves working, than they are in building their companies. The truth is that a business should be created to give the creator a better life instead of keeping him or her working until they fall down. If your only concern is how you’re going to get your next booking, then you are self-employed. Unfortunately, with all the changes happening in our industry, that is a difficult place to be. With the competition increasing, eventually your profits will be affected.

So how do you make the move from self-employed to business owner?

Offer Increased Convenience

I must admit here that the bulk of my expertise is in the wedding field. Though I have done every possible type of party you can imagine, weddings have really been my bread and butter. I have noticed that brides and grooms have been getting older over the past 10 to 15 years. When I started in the late ‘70s, the average couple was in their early 20s. Now, my average couple is in their late 20s to early 30s. They are busier now. Both are working and, though planning their weddings is important, so are the other aspects of their lives. They are looking for convenience and “ease of use.”

I began offering other services and the response was almost immediate. As soon as I sold a client on my DJ services I could very easily move them into other services and increase my profits several fold with very little work. I created alliances with other vendors that sold different services. I experimented with several additional services. Some worked well, some were a disaster. I discovered three additional services that were perfect additions to a DJ company.

Live Music

Since the mobile DJ industry began to establish itself in the mid 1980s, live music agencies and party band companies have been hiring out DJs. They could read the writing on the wall and knew that DJs would become a prominent force in the event business. Smart managers figured if you couldn’t beat them, join them (or have them join you).

Well, why can’t DJs do the same thing?

Live music encompasses many different categories, and therefore many different ways to increase your profits. Though many customers like the energy and excitement that DJs bring to a party, they are still looking for the elegance and style that live music can provide. The latest trend is to have live music, such as a string trio or jazz quartet for the cocktail hour. It offers guests an added touch of panache initially, then once they have enjoyed the cocktail hour, they head into the reception for the party.

This is a great place to increase your bottom line. Most string trios cost from $400 to $500 for you to hire can be offered to the client for about $1,200. Prices differ in different parts of the country, but there are great profits to be made, and the best part is, a sale such as this is very simple. You suggest the entertainment to the client and, if they show interest, you need a video to demonstrate the service.

Finding talent like this is also fairly simple. While you’re working as a DJ at an event, simply look for musicians. Take cards and network. Everyone is looking for work. You can also build a collection of single musicians such as pianists, guitarists, violinists, harpists and more. As you build your file, you will be able offer more services and increase your profits on every sale.

Photography

This type of sale is a little more complicated. There are many layers to selling photography. Unlike DJ or live music, providing photo services requires more time and knowledge. Also, unlike DJ or live music, the provision of services doesn’t end when the event is over. As a matter of fact, when the event ends, the work is just beginning.

However, profits are also just beginning. There are several ways to make money with photography. Along with the initial sale, you can add on additional proofs, websites, prints and thank you photos and notes. Each additional product has its own profit margins and can keep adding to your cash flow for up to a year after the event took place.

Now, I don’t recommend you get into photography on your own. It is a completely different skill and you must know what you are talking about. The best way to move into photography is to partner with an outside provider. My company, Bella Photography, provides photo services for other companies in our area. We provide our client companies with demo albums, additions to their own websites, sales training, and customer service follow up. Of course we also do all the design and album construction and provide prints of every size. When you create a relationship with a studio local to you, make sure they have the staff to be able to handle their own work and still provide your customers with good products and services.

Digital imaging has made event photography much simpler and creative. You can also work with anyone you choose from anywhere in the world because the pictures can be transported over the Internet instantly. Your options are almost endless.

Videography

Video is also a wonderful addition to your product list. It is simple to sell and provide and can add a nice chunk of money to your bottom line.

Unlike photography, video is easier to manage. Though you are still dealing with the client after the event, you are not dealing with additional steps such as creation of enlargements, bridal or family albums and thank you photos. It is also simpler to provide the finished product. Simply partner with a videographer you trust and that creates a good finished product. Work out a wholesale price with them, then sell it at retail and keep the profit.

There are some steps you will have to take before you begin. First you will need demonstration videos. These videos are key. It is essential your video partners provide you will quality videos that are short (between 6-10 minutes), artistic and contemporary. When it comes to video, everyone is looking for the latest and greatest look. The editing must be tight and stylized.

You also need to decide how many different packages you want to sell. It’s been my experience that the great majority of our clients consider video important, but not vital. By the time they make these choices they are looking for simple, easy choices. We offer only three packages, but seem to only sell two of them. You have to decide what’s right for your clients and your part of the country.

Think Differently

Operating your business this way requires a different way of thinking. Instead of simply a DJ company, your business becomes an event services company. You are a consultant with years of expertise in a very influential and important industry. Most of your clients have little experience planning events and they are looking for help. By expanding your reach and depth of knowledge, you can be the help they are looking for. When you become more valuable to them, they become willing to pay you more. Also, your competition begins to diminish. There are simply fewer people providing this kind of multi-layered service.

There are many other services you can begin to add to your list of offerings. Some work better than others. Over time, as you begin to get more comfortable with this enhanced business, you can look into additional products. Floral and design services, limousines, and on-site event management are just a few. The list is long and grows longer every year.

Take a look at your business. Expanding your profits is simple but does take time and research. You have to understand your clients and the area of the country you live in. I live in the Northeast and some of the services we offer here, may not work for you. However, if you look around and study your market, you can diversify your business and move up to the next level quickly and profitably.

Jim De Rosa has been working as a DJ entertainer in the event industry for almost three decades. He has worked as a consultant for Marriott and Sheraton Hotels along with performing at almost 3,000 events. His company, Event Galleria, offers a variety of party services and he works with several other companies to help them diversify and grow. Check him out at www.jamesderosa.com.

Destination: Entertainment by Mike Ryan

Working with DMCs; are you ready for the cream of the corporate gig crop?When corporate groups, especially the larger ones, bring hundreds and even thousands of their employees to a city for a convention, they often need “local help” with transportation and coordination of a variety of special events. This service is often provided by a Destination Management Company or DMC for short. Conventioneers also like to party and DMCs have entertainment connections too. That’s where DJs comes in. During the holiday season, when DJs are busy, DMCs are dormant. However, when the holiday season drops off, the DMCs are busy again with conventions, and that translates into more parties and potential business for DJs who are connected with this kind of organization!

The Big Leagues: Making the Team
Imagine you’re a meeting planner and you are responsible for organizing your company’s upcoming convention. You’ve got plenty to do and the last things you want to worry about are the ins and outs of an unfamiliar city that you’re only going to be in for a short while. If you’re a seasoned planner, you’ve already hooked up with a local DMC who has all of the contacts you need-including entertainment!
There are challenges for DJs who find themselves working for a DMC, however. The biggest one is just getting a DMC to hire you in the first place. This is truly the big leagues for DJs; the whole attitude changes at this level. PRA Inc., with 19 franchised offices across the America, is one of the biggest DMCs in the country. Dante Mancinelli of PRA’s home office in San Diego says there’s a big difference between regular parties and DJing for a DMC: “Weddings and birthdays tend to be more formula driven. A corporate DJ needs to know what the team is trying to accomplish. The DJ must understand the importance of the partnership we are trying to build. DJs also need to be familiar with the different players that might be on site: Incentive Houses, Production Companies, Entertainment agencies, Travel staff, the end client and the venue contacts.” And, in this setting, he stresses, “Under no circumstances should a DJ ever hand out business cards.”
Where do DJs fit into the entertainment needs at the corporate level? Mancinelli says, “Depending on the program and budget, there are times where a DJ is used as part of a larger party or in between big acts. The DJ can also be the main entertainment! Ideally, the DJ should be able to adjust as needed. Play lists are always helpful, and if a song is ever requested ahead of time, make sure you have it!”
DMCs can afford high quality DJs. So says Roger Devenyns, a sales manager with Star Destination at Starwood properties (Sheraton, “W”): “A DMC brings a higher end client to the table. In general, because DMCs cost money to use, their clients are prepared to spend more money.”
“But with more money comes more expectations,” he adds. “DMCs look for DJs who are professional at all times. Some DMC programs may involve awards or ceremonies requiring the use of the DJ sound system or require the DJ to act as the MC.” Devenyns continues with some important recommendations: “When in doubt, overdress and be overly nice. A DMC’s biggest concern when hiring a DJ is uncertainty. Does the DJ understand the market? DJs need to remember that the event is not a networking opportunity, they (DJs) are there as agents of the DMC and everything they do is a reflection upon the DMC. They cannot drink alcohol, eat the client’s food, give out phone numbers or hand out cards (are you seeing the trend here?).”

Get with the Program; Roll with the Punches
A typical chain of command for an incoming corporate group starts with the corporate meeting planner who contacts the DMC. The DMC then contacts a Talent Agency, which then contacts the entertainment, for example, a DJ. Devenyns says by the time the talent (DJ) gets the contract it becomes a matter of expediency: “Having a discussion about (any) decisions on the day of the event, or on-site, is the VERY LAST thing a Sales/Ops Manager wants to deal with on site. If the DJ is booked through an agency, any and all instructions should have already taken place. The agent should pass that information on to the DJ as thoroughly as possible. That is why the agent is being used to book talent. On-site really becomes: “just do it.”
Last minute changes do happen, however. Devenyns explains: “Sometimes the client decides they need a DJ as a last minute addition. Occasionally everything is arranged through a third party and the DMC contact is meeting the client for the first time at the event. In this case the DMC may simply be unprepared. But that is why they hired you, the DJ, to be professional and to provide good quality service in spite of having minimal information up-front. The DJ who can handle last minutes changes will be the one who get called for more business!”
As you can see, a DMC plays an important role in the convention industry, helping coordinate hospitality and entertainment for the huge conference industry. And because conventioneers like to party, DJs should be very hospitable to DMCs.

Mike Ryan started out writing for news radio, and has DJ’d on KGB and KSDS. He mobiles as Mike on the Mike, and also works part-time as a DMC tour guide. Mike is the inventor/owner of Frankenstand Powered Speaker Stands. He has been the president of the San Diego Professional Tour Guide Association, a board member of his local NACE chapter, and is a member of the San Diego Chapter of the ADJA.

For an extended version of this article get MOBILE BEAT #112, JANUARY 2008.

ADJA to be the “Official” Trade Organization of American DJ Products

The ADJA is pleased to announce one of the most significant partnerships in mobile DJ history. Not since the time Mobile Beat Magazine and ProDJ merged has such an industry related “teaming up” created such significant marketing possibilities to reach mobile DJ’s. For many years, Scott Davies and the entire American DJ crew have been hugely supportive of the ADJA and their efforts to bring their message of unity and professionalism to DJ’s nationwide and beyond.”It’s really a coming together of the Americas” ADJA President Dr. Drax states in jest. “For years the American Disc Jockey Association has strongly supported the “worth” message of Mark Ferrell (Disc Jockey America) at nearly every turn within our organizational and educational efforts. This message has been further supported by the nations leading supplier of professional lighting, American DJ. Whenever there has been an organizational effort, chapter meeting or related industry opportunity where we needed assistance with sponsoring such a message, American DJ has always been right there!”

Under the terms of this newly developed cooperative effort, the ADJA will become the “official” trade organization for American DJ. American DJ will become the “official” lighting and sound effects supplier to the ADJA.

“It’s a win-win situation for our members, American DJ customers and DJ’s everywhere!” says Dr. Drax. “It’s just another great step forward to unite our industry while promoting sound business ethics and the products that are held in such high regard by the great majority of the equipment buying public.”

ADJA literature will now be featured exclusively inside American DJ products. This has the potential of reaching tens of thousands of DJ’s annually. This will offer another strong affirmation of support by a well-established exemplary national equipment supplier. It will represent a significant cooperative effort that promotes the ADJA as a serious, dedicated and determined partner interested in the positive advancement of DJ’s everywhere!

ADJA Announces Exclusive Partnership with Denon

The dream of reaching the many thousands of DJ’s who do not participate in conferences and educational avenues is about to take a quantum leap. The ADJA and Denon are pleased to announce an exclusive partnership that will make Denon the “official” audio media supplier to the ADJA.This alliance was formed by many years of cooperative efforts and professional camaraderie at various industry events. ADJA President Dr. Drax states, “This represents the culmination of a lot of work for our two companies. It is a major opportunity to reach more DJ’s than at any time in the ADJA’s history. The idea that Denon DJ gear will ship with ADJA literature inside is exciting as it will help more DJ’s build and grow their business!”

Denon representative Silvio Zeppieri offers the following statement. ” We are thrilled to be partnering with the best trade association for DJs”

Strategic Partnership Announced between ADJA & BMP

The American Disc Jockey Association and Bobby Morganstein Productions have announced a historic agreement to market music and training products produced by BMP to the DJ industry. Under the new agreement, ADJA members will receive a significant discount on the entire product line of BMP products. “As a result of this effort, the pricing has been reduced across the board to get these products out to even more DJ’s within our organization” says ADJA President Dr. Drax.In addition to the product offerings, the ADJA is pleased to announce the formation of a new organization and first-of-its-kind training program specifically geared toward the Mitzvah entertainer.

“We plan to do for branding and promotion of Mitzvah performers what we have done for DJ’s. We will create the gold standard that consumers can look to, to know that their Mitzvah coordinator knows not only what to do and how to do it . . . but why.” Says Dr. Drax.

Soon, the ADJA will announce the launching of a four day all inclusive Mitzvah Clinic to be held next year. This educational workshop will be designed to offer training that will take students through the history and structure behind Mitzvah events. Additionally, the training will feature detailed instruction regarding all Mitzvah related entertainment traditions. Candidates who successfully complete this training will gain valuable education and understanding in their pursuance of attaining needed introductory and advanced instruction in Mitzvah entertaining.

Graduates of this training program will be qualified for membership within the newly formed Mitzvah Guild, an organization focused on highlighting those individuals who seek the highest level of certifiable recognition for excellence as a Mitzvah entertainer.

Bobby Morganstein explains the benefits of this new alliance in this fashion . . . ”

The strategic alliance between BMP and the ADJA will mark the largest and most significant advance the mobile industry has ever seen in the ever growing Mitzvah event industry. Dr. Drax states, “By crafting these learning opportunities we significantly expand our global lead in the education of DJ’s, KJ’s and now Mitzvah entertainers. This will be just one more way in which the ADJA leads the industry in educational opportunities for its members as they build and grow their businesses!”

ADJA Webinars will mark an Industry first!

Two years ago the ADJA made industry history by being the first organization to record, compile and make available a library of professionally produced seminars on DVD for it’s members. As announced this past February at their national meeting in Las Vegas, the ADJA is right on track to unveil their long awaiting series of “Webinars” that were originally targeted for a Fall ‘07 launch date.ADJA President Dr. Drax states, “We have been working feverishly behind the scenes to make this educational avenue a reality. Our pro-active approach to securing this amazing technology for our members will further our position to lead the industry in offering the most desired and sound educational opportunities available anywhere!”

A “Webinar” is an “on-line” seminar that is broadcast “live” and immediately accessible to those with the proper access authorization. ADJA members will be permitted to access valuable educational content from noted industry leaders. Participants will enjoy a variety of educational topics to include; marketing, advertising, sales, talent, self improvement, business management and financial planning, to name a few. The technology will allow for real time interaction, including “Q and A” based upon time constraints and speaker discretion.

The first series of “Webinars” are expected to feature such popular and respected leaders as; Mark Ferrell, Bryan Dodge and Michael Port. Attendance will be limited and available to ADJA members on a first come, first served basis. Members are encouraged to watch for an announcement soon regarding the first set of scheduled dates.

Focusing their attention clearly upon offering the finest educational avenues of any national DJ organization, the ADJA is establishing a proven track record of pioneering efforts designed to incorporate the most technically advanced methods of education for the benefit of their members.

NACE - Press Release

After an incredible showing last year at the NACE (National Association of Catering Executives) Conference, the ADJA with help from the Phoenix and Houston Chapters, “rocked” the conference once again this summer.At this years conference, held in Houston Texas, the ADJA pulled out all the stops to impress upon the attendees the value and distinct difference that quality entertainment can provide. ADJA members Roy Dueitt, Paul Olsen and Lisa Walrath all took major roles in seeing that everything happened as planned without a hitch. This allowed the National Directors to focus on collaborating with NACE members and leadership to build a better relationship for both organizations.

While maintaining a great visual presence within the conference, NACE members saw first hand the effects of our vision statement, “when we work together, imagine what we can do!” Through direct dialog and positive representations, many commented that they are going to start looking for ADJA members exclusively for their referral lists. We then took the opportunity to review and highlight the “new” ADJA Code of Conduct. DJ Insurance was another topic that was discussed. More and more event facilities are beginning to understand the value of an insured DJ versus one with no insurance.

The ADJA provided nearly all the musical entertainment for the conference, including themed music, video and other entertainment features for their evening events. We also provided ADJA professionals for all their seminars and sessions giving their educational content a more professional image as we warmed up the crowd for the presentation and acted as the spokespersons for NACE.

The local Houston chapter really pulled out all the stops as they created a customized, choreographed routine to Sexyback called “NACE is BACK”. Through their efforts, ADJA provided music at all the meals, refreshment breaks throughout the day, evening events and even a nightclub style showcase. NACE representatives worked exceedingly hard to make sure that the ADJA was always represented in the best light. ADJA President Dr. Drax worked closely with NACE National Officers to see that the ADJA logo was prominent at every venue and every opportunity. The ADJA was “thanked” from the podium at literally every event.

Here is a comment from one NACE delegate, Andy Ebon. “The ADJA did a superior job of representing its membership on all fronts, at the NACE Educational Conference in Houston. Speaking as a past NACE National Board Member, and a former Mobile DJ, I can say, without hesitation, that the ADJA presence in the NACE Marketplace Tradeshow, its entertainment value at various events, and professional introductions at seminars were all home runs. Individual NACE members are bringing home an exemplary impression of ADJA members for the second straight year. If local members impress them with the same professionalism, it will help cement the ADJA as the industry leader!” More can be read on his blog . . . http://www.WeddingMarketing.biz
Dr. Drax was also named to the NACE Business Partners Steering Committee to better facilitate the relationships between NACE and its business partners. Local ADJA Chapter interaction and NACE chapter development will be a major focus of on-going efforts within the two organizations. This will further cement our relationship with NACE.

ADJA President Dr. Drax stated, “We really came out of obscurity at this years’ conference. That could only happen as a result of the outstanding efforts of the Houston Chapter and other participating members. Those chapter members really stood up and made us all proud. Next time you see or talk to one of them give them a huge ‘high five’ for knocking this one out of the park. To those that sacrificed their time and talents so that the ADJA could shine bright . . . we give a heartfelt ‘thank you!’ You ROCK!”

ADJA Announces Major Sponsorship of the Industry’s Biggest Event

The American Disc Jockey Association will blanket the 2008 Mobile Beat DJ Show and Conference in Las Vegas with what will prove to be the biggest sponsorship of an industry trade show by a national DJ organization to date. Besides sponsoring the popular DJ All Star Show featuring Tone Loc & Freedom Williams, the ADJA has increased it’s presence to include a complete event sponsorship. This is another positive step forward in the ADJA’s continuing efforts to promote, attract, sustain and maintain their visibility as the industry’s flagship organization for Mobile DJ’s.

DJ Ahoy! by Mike Ryan

Gigs on party boats and other seafaring venues test your preparation skills

After lugging all my DJ equipment, one piece at a time, down a narrow dock ramp, up an equally narrow winding staircase to the boat’s second deck, with sweat dripping from my forehead, I mentioned to one of the ship’s crew: “I sure wish there was an elevator on this boat!”
She answered, “Oh, there’s one right over there,” pointing to a small door in the corner of the room. Thank you very much!

The Unique Challenge of DJing on a Boat
DJing on party boats is exciting and I always look forward to working on them. Party boats are usually very elegant and because most of the events are at night, it often becomes a romantic cruise on the water. And yet because of limited space of boats they’re one of the most demanding gigs you’ll ever experience.
Blondie sang “The tide is high”­-well, during one of my recent load-ins it wasn’t, making the ramp from the pier to the dock very steep. I always worry about my equipment rolling away from me and into the water, knock on teak. After safely getting my gear on board I heard a loud crash and the sound of shattering dishes. One of the catering staff was wheeling a “Queen Mary,” a tall metal food container, down the same ramp and it did get away from him, crashing onto the dock next to the ship with the evening’s dinner turning into seagull soufflé.
Speaking of food, often, but not always, you will get to eat; most crews are pretty good at taking care of you. Where can you go if you’re hungry? Remember, you’re on the water.
When it comes to the actual performance, once you’ve navigated all the logistical obstacles, DJing on the water still requires the high level of performance any client, private or corporate, might expect. One of the premier party boat companies in California, Hornblower Cruises and Events, operates 30 yachts, including the massive Inspiration (see picture), services six ports and is a “$30 million dollar business.” Hilary Rossi, Hornblower’s Assistant Director of Food and Beverage in San Diego is very serious about entertainers she hires to work their on their boats: “If a DJ thinks it’s okay to plug in an iPod® and just stand there, they are very wrong. It is about being a people person, and playing what people want.”

Water Hazards
The following are a variety of tips for a better musical boating experience…
Steve Cosio of I Buy Time, a radio ad buyer in Dallas, Texas (and former mobile DJ) recommends lightening you load: “Travel light…as light as possible….I had only one sound system and it was heavy. The manager of the boat almost didn’t let me onboard because the sound system was on casters. I convinced her that the casters were riveted on and there was no way to take them off. Once on board, I surrounded the wheels with gear so the unit wouldn’t roll.”
This comment reminds me that it’s a good idea to secure all of your equipment if there is even a slight chance of the gear rolling or tipping over. Remember, boats move. You’d hate to hear someone yell “Speaker overboard!” wouldn’t you? I’ve found, because of the tight dance areas, that using just one 8″ speaker and a 12″ or 15″ speaker with the treble turn all the way down acting like a sub works great.
Cosio has another great no-brainer piece of advice: “If you are prone to seasickness, it wouldn’t hurt to carry a seasickness patch in your gear and use it BEFORE you leave the dock!”
Don’t expect a six foot table to put your equipment on. Do expect to be put in a small corner with little room to move. Also, expect the ceilings to be extremely low, so watch out for feedback.
Warning: I promise you, your client probably won’t tell you in advance (make sure you ask) that he or she will want a microphone on the deck you’re not on! And forget about using your wireless on another deck (I’ve tried it). It’ll work just enough to cut out here and there, upsetting the client and making you look like an idiot. I always bring an extra powered speaker and wired mike for just such an occasion. Gene Barbic, co-owner of Warehouse Sound and Light in Miramar, California suspects that my wireless is having problems with all of the ship’s metal. Barbic says there are devices to help you DJ on a boat including a direct box, ground lift, remote and powered antennas etc.
When you have the boat rocking and your CD starts skipping (assuming you’re still using CDs) chances are the deck (floor) is bouncing and not your disks. I actually threw several perfectly good CDs overboard in dramatic fashion in front of the guests because I thought they were bad. (I now have a new appreciation for going computer.) Don’t forget to bring extra-long RCA cables in case you’re asked to patch into the ship’s sound system. Rossi adds: “Boat wiring is tricky sometimes and extra care should always be put to checking a system ahead of time.” In other words, make sure you find and paste to your memory all of the ship’s sound system’s volume controls. The last thing you want to do is navigate around all the guests and ship’s crew as you try to turn down the ship’s piped in music.
Often times, the boats are “home ported” at different locations other than where they pick you and the guests up, so at the end of your cruise be prepared to get all of your equipment off as fast as you can - the ship’s crew will appreciate it. Also, if the boat is returning to a docking area with “live-aboards” (people who live on their boats) near by be prepared to shut down the music as soon as you reach the dock.

Shipshape
Q: What’s the difference between a boat and a ship? A: You can put a boat on a ship!
If you live in a big city like San Diego, you may also have historic ships to party on. One of our ships, the retired air craft carrier USS Midway, is a blast to work on; plenty of space-it’s a big, really big ship! They usually put DJs inside the hanger bay, a massive area with a very high ceiling. Party lights look great and really fill the space.
However, as with all water craft, it too has its challenges, worst of all being the way the pier crew load equipment. Apparently someone figured using a fork lift would suffice to hoist my precious DJ equipment up several stories from the pier, over the water, and onto the main hanger bay. Once I actually rode with my equipment in a little cage attached to one of the fork lifts, teetering high in the air…scared me to death!
Bottom line, DJing on boats, big or small, poses some very unique problems to solve, but if you prepare in advance, these parties can be some of the most fun you’ll ever experience.

Mike Ryan started writing for news radio. He also DJ’d on KGB and KSDS. He mobiles as Mike on the Mike and is also the inventor owner of Frankenstand Powered Speaker Stands. Mike also works part time as a DMC tour guide. He has been the President of the San Diego Professional Tour Guide Association, a board member of his local NACE chapter and is currently the secretary of the San Diego Chapter of the ADJA.

Sea Songs
THE TIDE IS HIGH BLONDIE
SEA OF LOVE HONEYDRIPPERS
UNDER THE SEA LITTLE MERMAID SOUNDTRACK
DON’T ROCK THE BOAT HUGHES CORP.
SAILING CHRIS CROSS OR BACKSTREET BOYS
IF I HAD A BOAT LYLE LOVETT OR DAVE MATTHEWS
ALMOST ANYTHING BY THE BEACH BOYS
ALMOST ANYTHING FROM JIMMY BUFFET
YO HO HO, A PIRATE’S LIFE FOR ME DISNEY THEME PARK SONG
(Always gets a chuckle)
GILLIGAN’S ISLAND THEME
(Another chuckle, although a little nervous-sounding)

Nautical Terms You Should Know
Port = left
Starboard = right
Deck = floor
Overhead = ceiling
Bulkhead = wall
Forward = the front of the ship,
Aft = the rear of the ship
Head = bathroom (very important to locate ASAP)
Captain = the guy in charge of everything…and I mean everything!

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