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[Free Video Lesson] What's the REAL difference between Producers & DJs (Producers Explained)

November 13, 2024 at 4:06 PM

Hey folks,

I just uploaded a new video on my youtube channel from my full beginner to intermediate DJ course on why DJs use harmonic mixing

Enjoy!

 

 

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Hey there, my name is Robert I run a DJ blog called learningtodj.com and also have a variety of online DJ courses that you can checkout here. I run a podcast called Beyond the Decks where I interview pro DJs, artists, labels and more.

You can enroll in my free DJ tutorial on Versatility for Digital DJs here or download a free PDF guide for How To Backup Your DJ Music Library here

[Podcast] BTD006 - Homemade Weapons: Pushing Boundaries, New Label 2025, Nature of Art + Self Expression, 170 Drum n Bass

November 8, 2024 at 3:23 PM

Hey folks, I just released a new Beyond the Decks Podcast episode EP6 with 170 DNB talent Homemade Weapons.

 

In this episode of Beyond the Decks, I catch up with Andre Delgado, better known as Homemade Weapons—a pioneering figure in the 170 drum and bass scene.

In our conversation, Andre shares his journey from DJing to music production, discussing how he balances complexity with minimalism to create space in his sound. We also go into the deeper challenges of today’s music industry, particularly the struggle between maintaining artistic authenticity and engaging with commercial pressures.

Andre reflects on his creative process, the allure of pushing musical boundaries, and his future plans, including the exciting launch of his new label, Homemade Weapons, in 2025. Packed with valuable insights for aspiring DJs and producers, this episode provides an insider’s perspective on how one of drum and bass’s most innovative artists continues to evolve.

Beyond the Decks is your guide to mastering the art and business of the DJ, electronic and dance music industry.

Podcast Website: https://learningtodj.com/podcast/
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-decks-podcast-with-robert-simoes-learningtodj-com/id1758609395
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/34jVG0wkfNyinasE9G2jln
RSS: https://learningtodj.com/podcast/feed/
Youtube Full Episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@learningtodj

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VscLkVsXwyU

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Hey there, my name is Robert I run a DJ blog called learningtodj.com and also have a variety of online DJ courses that you can checkout here. I run a podcast called Beyond the Decks where I interview pro DJs, artists, labels and more.

You can enroll in my free DJ tutorial on Versatility for Digital DJs here or download a free PDF guide for How To Backup Your DJ Music Library here

[Article] How to Format a USB for CDJs in Rekordbox on Mac or PC

November 3, 2024 at 3:45 PM

Hi folks,

Just published a new article on the blog: "How to Format a USB for CDJs in Rekordbox on Mac or PC" 

Whether you’re on Mac or PC, setting up a USB for CDJs can be tricky. One wrong format, and your tracks won’t load! Learn the essential steps (including that crucial FAT32 setup) and get the lowdown on Device Library vs. Device Library Plus for different CDJ models. Check it out below

https://learningtodj.com/how-to-format-a-usb-for-cdjs-in-rekordbox/ 

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Hey there, my name is Robert I run a DJ blog called learningtodj.com and also have a variety of online DJ courses that you can checkout here. I run a podcast called Beyond the Decks where I interview pro DJs, artists, labels and more.

You can enroll in my free DJ tutorial on Versatility for Digital DJs here or download a free PDF guide for How To Backup Your DJ Music Library here

[Free Video Lesson] This is Why DJs Use Harmonic Mixing

November 3, 2024 at 3:42 PM

Hi folks,

I just uploaded a new video on my youtube channel from my full beginner to intermediate DJ course on why DJs use harmonic mixing

Enjoy!

 

 

Hey there, my name is Robert I run a DJ blog called learningtodj.com and also have a variety of online DJ courses that you can checkout here. I run a podcast called Beyond the Decks where I interview pro DJs, artists, labels and more.

You can enroll in my free DJ tutorial on Versatility for Digital DJs here or download a free PDF guide for How To Backup Your DJ Music Library here

[Free Video Lesson] How to Beatmatch - learningtodj.com

October 29, 2024 at 4:37 PM

Hi folks,

I just uploaded a new video on my youtube channel from my full beginner to intermediate DJ course on how to beat match.

Enjoy!

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Hey there, my name is Robert I run a DJ blog called learningtodj.com and also have a variety of online DJ courses that you can checkout here. I run a podcast called Beyond the Decks where I interview pro DJs, artists, labels and more.

You can enroll in my free DJ tutorial on Versatility for Digital DJs here or download a free PDF guide for How To Backup Your DJ Music Library here

[Free Video Lesson] Music Theory for DJs: What EQ Actually Does

October 27, 2024 at 6:04 PM

Hey folks,

I just released a new video talking more about Music Theory for DJs specifically explaining what EQ actually does when you use it in your mixer.

 

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Hey there, my name is Robert I run a DJ blog called learningtodj.com and also have a variety of online DJ courses that you can checkout here.

You can enroll in my free DJ tutorial on Versatility for Digital DJs here or download a free PDF guide for How To Backup Your DJ Music Library here

[Podcast] BTD005 - Mark Williams: Techno Artisan, Return from Hiatus, Creative Process & Authenticity

October 25, 2024 at 5:13 PM

Hey everyone, I just released a new Beyond the Decks Podcast episode EP5 with Techno veteran Mark Williams.

In this Beyond the Decks episode, Robert dives into the career of global techno artisan Mark Williams. They explore Mark’s early inspirations in Essex’s late 80s rave culture, his first gigs hustling through London’s underground, and his disciplined creative process—where activities like running fuel his music production. Mark also shares insights on the evolution of techno and hard groove, today’s fresh interpretations, and his journey back into music after a hiatus to focus on family.

Beyond the Decks is your guide to mastering the art and business of the DJ, electronic and dance music industry.

Podcast Website: https://learningtodj.com/podcast/
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-decks-podcast-with-robert-simoes-learningtodj-com/id1758609395
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/34jVG0wkfNyinasE9G2jln
RSS: https://learningtodj.com/podcast/feed/
Youtube Full Episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@learningtodj

https://learningtodj.com/btd005-mark-williams/ 

Re: [Free Mini Tutorial] L2DJ Practicals: Versatility Series

October 22, 2024 at 4:37 PM

This course is now migrated over to my own platform on Teachable.

You can enroll for free at: https://school.learningtodj.com/p/versatility-series 

[Free DJ Exercise] 45 Seconds Per Track?! (No Sync)

October 22, 2024 at 4:35 PM

Hey folks,

I put out a video lesson last week as a part of my free mini series on Versatility for Digital DJs.

Try practicing mixing tracks without sync for a maximum of 45 seconds!

Check it out below:

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Hey there, my name is Robert I run a DJ blog called learningtodj.com and also have a variety of online DJ courses that you can checkout here.

You can enroll in my free DJ tutorial on Versatility for Digital DJs here.

[Free DJ Lesson] Song Structure in Dance Music

October 21, 2024 at 3:59 PM

Hey folks,

Just released a new DJ lesson from my The Complete DJ Course for free on youtube - enjoy!

This video covers the concept of song structure at a theoretical level.

 

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Hey there, my name is Robert I run a DJ blog called learnintodj.com and also have a variety of online DJ courses.

You can enroll in my free DJ tutorial on Versatility for Digital DJs here.

[Video] 7 Reasons DJs Make Mistakes During Sets

October 9, 2024 at 5:20 PM

Hey folks,

Put up a video for one of my courses on YouTube hopefully it will helps some of you newer DJs.

 

If you're interested in the full course on Mistake Recovery for House & Techno DJs checkout the link below:

https://school.learningtodj.com/p/mistake-recovery

The course is: concise, practical, and focused. You'll Gain the fundamentals and knowledge to transform live DJ mistakes into smooth recoveries with performance psychology and technical tools.


👋 Hey there, I'm Robert, I run a DJ blog called Learning To DJ which teaches the art and skill of DJing & musical influence (you can checkout my courses here: https://school.learningtodj.com/)

I also interview emerging, established and professional DJs on my podcast: Beyond The Decks. You can listen on 

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

via RSS

[Podcast] BTD004 - Razaq El Toro: From Lagos to Toronto, The Rise of Afrique Like Me, Building a Strong DJ Brand & Aesthetic

October 7, 2024 at 12:23 PM

Hey everyone, new Beyond the Decks Podcast release EP4: 

In this episode of Beyond the Decks Robert catches up with Eko Electronic pioneer and member of the African Electronic Music experience trio Afrique Like Me, Razaq El Toro (aka. Razaq Onakoya). From his roots in Lagos, Nigeria to migrating to Toronto’s fast-pace nightlight scene, Razaq El Toro’s story highlights the power of authenticity, curiosity and openness in building a quality reputation as a DJ and performer. Razaq opens up about his journey, why he feels personal identity is essential to great DJing and how he thinks DJs can build a name for themselves in a competitive scene using niche appeal.

Beyond the Decks is your guide to mastering the art and business of the DJ, electronic and dance music industry.

Podcast Website: https://learningtodj.com/podcast/
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-decks-podcast-with-robert-simoes-learningtodj-com/id1758609395
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/34jVG0wkfNyinasE9G2jln
RSS: https://learningtodj.com/podcast/feed/
Youtube Full Episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@learningtodj

https://learningtodj.com/btd004-razaq-el-toro/ 

 

[Podcast] Saliva Commandos: In:Command Records, Crafting a Unique Sound, Percussive & Afro House, Respecting DJ Culture

September 30, 2024 at 3:27 PM

Hey everyone, new Beyond the Decks Podcast release EP3:

In this episode, Robert speaks with George Aponte, aaka Saliva Commandos, a veteran house music DJ and producer from the Bronx. They discuss:

George’s upbringing in a Puerto Rican family, surrounded by his father’s guitar playing and the Bronx’s hip-hop scene.

His DJ beginnings, buying turntables in 1986 after being inspired by neighborhood street jams.

George’s artistic background in film production and graffiti, which influence his music.

His key influences in hip-hop, house, and Latin freestyle.

George’s journey illustrates how cultural roots, diverse influences, and passion can shape a successful career in electronic music.

Beyond the Decks is your guide to mastering the art and business of the DJ, electronic and dance music industry.

Podcast Website: https://learningtodj.com/podcast/
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-decks-podcast-with-robert-simoes-learningtodj-com/id1758609395
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/34jVG0wkfNyinasE9G2jln
RSS: https://learningtodj.com/podcast/feed/
Youtube Full Episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@learningtodj

https://learningtodj.com/btd003-saliva-commandos/ 

 

[FREE PDF Guide] How to Backup Your DJ Music Library - Practical Guide to Backing Up in 5 steps

September 27, 2024 at 4:33 PM

Hey folks,

A friend of mine recently asked me what a good way to backup your DJ music library would be and it got me thinking...

 

As a digital DJ your music library is your most valuable asset – especially if you use Rekordbox, Serato or other software.

Losing hours of work due to hardware failure, theft, or accidental deletion can be catastrophic to any career disc jockey or hobbyist.

 

All of those playlists created?

Gone.

All that music sourced from digital distributors?

Get ready to re-download it all – and deal with the pain of doing so.

All the ID3 Tags like genres, comments, BPM and more on tracks?

No more.

 

Yikes!!

 

I wrote up a quick basic guide / strategy for her to use, maybe it would be useful for folks on this form here too.

Feel free to download via:

https://learningtodj.com/how-to-backup-your-dj-music-library-guide/

or on my teachable website

https://learningtodj.teachable.com/p/backup-dj-music-library