No Such Thing as a ‘Best DJ’

Editorial Team

10 months ago

The concept of the “best DJ” is inherently subjective and multifaceted, reflecting the diverse tastes and evolving landscape of electronic music.

To understand why the title of the best DJ is elusive, we must delve into the historical context, various styles, and the dynamic nature of the DJing profession.

The Evolution of DJing

DJing, short for “disc jockeying,” began in the early 20th century with radio DJs who played recorded music on the airwaves.

The role of DJs evolved significantly with the rise of hip-hop in the 1970s, where DJs like Kool Herc began using turntables to mix tracks and create new sounds.

This era introduced techniques like scratching and beat-matching, laying the groundwork for modern DJing.

As electronic dance music gained popularity in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, DJs became central figures in music festivals and clubs worldwide. The DJ is now officially here.

Artists like Fatboy Slim, Carl Cox, and Roger Sanchez rose to fame, each bringing their unique style and contributing to the genre’s diversity.

Subjectivity in Music Preferences

Music is deeply personal, and what resonates with one person may not with another.

This subjectivity is evident in the DJing world, where fans’ preferences can vary widely. Some might favour the high-energy sets of DJs like Keza, while others prefer the groove-laden beats of House DJs like Smokingroove.

As a well-known record once said, “Music is the answer”.

It’s the only way to express what you feel inside,” highlighting how personal and varied musical tastes can be. This variability makes it impossible to crown a single DJ as the best.

Diverse DJ Styles

DJs are known for their distinct styles, which can range from house and techno to drum and bass and dubstep.

Each genre requires a different skill set and appeals to different audiences.

For instance, the intricate, fast-paced mixing of a drum and bass DJ like Andy C contrasts sharply with the slower, more atmospheric mixes of a house DJ like Solomun.

Impact of Technology

Technology has played a significant role in the evolution of DJing.

The transition from vinyl records to digital formats has expanded the possibilities for DJs, allowing them to incorporate a broader range of sounds and effects into their sets.

Programs like Ableton Live and Traktor have enabled DJs to push the boundaries of creativity, blending tracks in ways that were previously impossible.

This technological advancement also means that the skills required for DJing have changed.

While traditionalists might value the tactile skills needed to mix vinyl records, others might appreciate the innovative use of digital tools.

The Role of Performance

Beyond technical skills, a DJ’s ability to connect with their audience is crucial.

DJs like DJ Bliss are known for their electrifying stage presence, which can turn a good set into an unforgettable experience.

Conversely, DJs like Kaytek are celebrated for their ability to create deep, immersive atmospheres that captivate listeners.

Influence of Global Culture

The global nature of DJing means that cultural influences play a significant role in shaping a DJ’s style and appeal.

DJs often draw inspiration from their cultural backgrounds and incorporate these elements into their music.

For example, Charl Chaka’s Afro-house sound is deeply rooted in South African rhythms, while Adam-J blends urban influences with Dubai’s Open-Format scene.

Awards and Recognition

While awards like ‘Best DJ’ provide some recognition, they often spark debate within the community.

These rankings are based on small-group votes, which are influenced by factors like social media presence and marketing rather than pure DJing skills.

This further complicates the idea of who the best DJ is.