In my opinion the level of mixing is not about using more effects or loops. You maybe need a bit more skill for the higher levels, but thats not what djing is about. Its about the fact at which position of the track you mix and how you maintain the attention of the dancers. If u get the crowd with your „Level 1 or 2 Mixing“ then its Level 5 Mixing. Anyways you showed some nice techniques how to mix. You should have called it „5 ways of mixing house“.
Agree 100%. I want to go next level with a complex mix but I can’t think on the fly that fast. I would have to adhere to a strict playlist that I have practiced before the set to pull of complex mixes with loops and effects. Most of my time DJing is thinking about the crowd which often throws a curveball to what I planned on playing and I favour rolling with the vibe of the crowd than the vibe of my mix.
I’ve been DJing for around 25 years on vinyl. Then moved to digital over the last 10 years, I would say I’m on level 2 because I feel it’s a safe bet. As a rare groove Dj with a bit of house thrown in I really get to know the tracks I play before I begin to make translations with them. Would really love to move to stage 3-4, will need a lot of practice time to feel comfortable to step up to those levels. Keep up the good work, you’re teaching style is second to none.
5 props to Jamie I’ve been DJing for over 35+ and had many mentors ,contemporaries and teachers. He explains mixing House just about as good as anyone #fairplay
I've been a bedroom DJ for 3 years now, and I feel like I'm still in level one with slow blend mixing, but after watching this video and taking you guys (Crossfader) How to Mix House Music course, I'm in now in level 2 and working on all the way to level 5.
As I’ve been DJing for 15 years, I would say I’m in between Level 4-5 (4.5). Even for someone like me, it takes a lot of confidence to master mixing with “Fader cuts” to a high level like James Hype on a consistent basis. But just like with anything, practice comes consistency over time. I would say I’m still someone that’s learning to perfect “fader cutting”. I add a lot of loops to my mixes as I like the creative side to looping tracks and mixing with them - and the more you get better at it, the easier DJing becomes. For anyone learning how to DJ or even DJing already, the biggest takeaway you can do is by consistently watching other DJ’s on UA-cam (and just focus on the music and watch their hands). Aside from that, definitely join Crossfader DJ courses!
❤ I am at level five for the past 18 years and it have thousands of ways to mix songs just Love what you doing And you will get it right I am from Trinidad and Tobago.
Level 3 for me. But I feel like Level 1 and 2 are the safest bet if you don't know the songs too well. It's also the most "seamless" transition, so personally, I like it more. For Level 3 onwards, you definitely need a lot of practice. (Maybe Sync helps too
"Level 5" was honestly a bit annoying lol. Think it really depends what tracks or style you're playing, sometimes its best to not draw attention away from the original production
on point about track knowledge. i definitely find myself sticking close to 1-2 when i just downloaded a hundred new tracks for a set at a regular venue that I might have played at very recently.
I mix tech house just as my hobby and have done for years , I always watch your videos and really enjoy them Jamie a massive respect to you , after watching this one I feel like I have so much to learn and am interested to do so . On this basis I put myself at level 1 back to a total beginner.
I feel like you left out some options: - the long blend: finding two tracks that really marry well together, and then riding the EQ/Filter to make it work - the quick cut: sometimes a quick fader swap makes the biggest impact, especially if mixing in something with a different rhythmic pattern (ie, electro, breaks) - keep the loop going: set a shorter loop of the outgoing track, ideally something more minimal and percussive, to keep it going and bring something new to the incoming track. Also works well as a way to tease the next track for a while before it comes in. To my ears, #5 is grating and showy, more of a performance trick than something that enhances the mix sonically, but to each, their own.
Agreed, more than once or twice in a set for #5 style becomes grating very quickly. Different styles of music will suit different transitions, DnB is all about the quick cuts and double drops, House you can get away with really long blends and loops easily. All comes with practice and experimentation. Playing to your environment is also key; early set at a small club, stick to the clean basics. Late night closing house set; longer hypnotic blends. Late night anything else; DO NOT do ridiculous showy nonsense, people are too cooked to pay attention and just want a song to play. Big outdoor crowd; get a bit more showy with it.
#6 basic tone play and back and forth blend. I love quicker more subtle uses of this without a whole routine. Can be done with a few cues. Also added back and forth blends Mashups without stem swaps. At this point a variety Stem mixes needed to be added to basics. They can quickly become easier and better than a lot of alternatives
Sometimes yes. Or just jump into it, make errors or do things the hard way when there's a shortcut. I first unleashed my imagination to Photoshop, then learned the (non basic) functions after, sort of.
@@AlexAlcyone Pretty sure I've heard from different experienced DJs you don't really need to know any "mix in key" as long as you know the tracks and can read the crowd correctly to pick the next track..
I’m a purist at heart so I’m very much on the smooth eq blending type of style. Jamie you do an incredible job here illustrating what is possible, some serious skills. To anybody perhaps missing the point here, the more advanced skills are worth having, even if you don’t use them as part of your set. Being able to do some of these performative skills, can actually save you in a dance, say for example a technical issue means you have to leave a track playing for longer while it gets fixed and you want to keep things interesting. If you take your eye off the ball and don’t have much time to get the next song in, looping the outgoing track can enable you to build the mix coming in for a bit longer, thus avoiding a drop in energy. I’d say learn everything you can over time, just to have it on your toolkit, you may only use it very occasionally but the more tools you have, the better job you are going to do.
it seems level 1 in the video is safe and pretty good for just basement parties. does the equipment such as your board matter when going to parties or such the music itself?
Amazing video, having all the levels laid out side by side gives us a roadmap on what to work on and tools to add to our kit. In between levels 2 to 3 currently!
i feel proud of me, i just have 3 years as a dj and i can say i have the level 5, is much fun being creative and have your own style, also that's a way to be different from the others djs
I usually loop the track that I’m bringing in to avoid clashing. Can be tricky sometimes though. Thanks for the tips as always guys. I wouldn’t know half the stuff I k ow if it wasn’t for y’all and others on UA-cam ❤️
I'm 51 years old, and i'm an old school Dj from the early 90's. Back then it took skills to master the art of Djing, using Technics 1210MK2 turntables and a Numark mixer, yes, Numark Mixers was the top of the line back then. So last year i was thinking, i can do that, it's too easy, so i bought a Numark Mix Track Pro FX Platinum, the best entry level controller in 2020, and boy was i right, 2 weeks later i was at level 5. it is so easy that it is embarrassing to see Dj's today, James Hype is the only exception!
I’m a newish DJ. Bought my first deck during Covid and have just recently really started getting serous about practicing. I played a few times in my camp at Burning Man and recently at a house party. People told me they loved the sets, and I was actually surprised how well I did! I would say i am currently a 2 or 3 but really loving playing around and learning new techniques. Have learned a lot from watching the excellent videos from #WeAreCrossfader. Thanks Jamie!
There's so much content in this 9 min video for any Dj out there looking to learn or even take a step back to the basics! Jaime is a Master at showing multiple ways of taking 2 songs and making something completely new. -- Juice Out!
it's fun mixing at the higher levels but I think the best mix is the simple one when you don't need to eq much at all and rely on the pairing of the tracks to rift off each other. All have their place for changing things up but effortless mixes sound timeless and never cheesy
#WeAreCrossfader Level 2/3 vibes over here and learning more each day! Grateful for these kinds of videos that share different techniques and formats of mixing the same songs!
I love this comment section. Lots of honest descriptions of current skill level and goals. Not so much, "Vinyl is better because...." "Only if you press sync...". Respect to vinyl gang, respect to CDJ/DDJ gang, respect to sync gang. Sound you make is more important than what you're pressing. Cheers.
I'd say I'm working on level 2. I'm able to balance the mix between songs at a comfortable level and in the past few weeks I've started to apply more effects to vary my transitions so it's not so predictable. Been mixing casually since February for friends at home.
i figured all this out 20 years ago as the tech was advancing. if you cant come up with what's shown here by pure imagination and exploration, oh boy. this should be the entry test for any so called "dj skool." all the skill in the world wont make up for talent.... unless you can buy your "opportunities" then you can become the number one dj.
It’s really great how you use the same tracks with each technique. It really helps me understand the differences between how the techniques will sound to the audience. When videos use different songs for each technique it’s hard to get a feel for the vibe of each tradition type.
As someone who has been djing with Vinyl for about 15 years, I think it is very impressive how djing has been changed. But until today, I have never seen anybody doing something on digital decks, that would been impressive at all. I compare it with painting: digital painting might have amazing beautiful results, but on the end it’s not satisfying to watch. But a true hand painted picture with oil is on another level. Maybe this is why I quit clubbing and djing, because there is no satisfaction for me anymore, listen to the very same sets without any true soul. But I think this video is great, don’t take my words personal. I just think a dj is using Vinyl only or nothing
Vinyl DJ/Turntablist got back in a yr ago after 25yrs. Play a wide variety of music. Biggest takeaway is know your music and have control over it. Same way I do if I’m playing a 90’s hip hop song and juggling / scratching. Need to spend more time in my deep house crates and not just use lexicon to set my cues. I certainly don’t let it set cues for my best juggles or scratches! Now on that #5 I’d have been switching between a transformer, twiddle, and crab ;)
I started not too long ago, so I'm probably a 2. Hearing 4-5 gives me motivation to continue delving into/attempting/practicing these advanced techniques!
After 13-15 years of djing I can confidently say that it's extremely taxing to keep up with level 4-5 if you're doing a residency ontop of a full booking schedule. It's fine for touring because you're typically playing larger or arguably more experiencing crowd and if you're signed to a label you better understand that the people that are coming to see you expect a show. These crowds are typically more knowledgeable about not only the lables music and it's artists, but your music and dj style as well. However, if you're the 1st option mentioned, you're still extremely busy but night after night performing like James Hype is just going to burn you out, especially for 2-3 hour sets. Also if you're the type of dj that invites friends to the club, be mindful of friends that pass you shots and drinks all night because talking from experience, you tend to accidentally overreach when you're drunk and things can get super messy, quick - so trying to operate at level 4-5 drunk is just not recommended for the faint of heart. Lastly, take everything im saying with a grain of salt, if you're just starting out but you've been bedroom djing for 5+ years while also practicing at least 1 hour a day, then it's finally your chance to showcase your talent, but just know your limits as it's not only your reputation in the balance, but also the clubs/venues, and your audiences hard earned $$$ they've chosen to spend to see you.
#WeAreCrossfader --> I think I am in level 2. I started DJing five months ago. I have been following you for at least 2 years and with your help I hope to improve myself more. :) Thank you!
#WeAreCrossfader - I'm at level 1 right now!, I'm new to house music in generally but I'm really enjoying this kind of mixing, much love to the dj/producer community and crossfader fam😊❤
I'm a Latin Dj, Focusing mainly on Bachata, Salsa, and Now with Crossfader as my Online Dj Tutors, I'm getting into Mixing House Music. I would say at Level 2 atm! Looking to rise with CF!!!!
Unsurprisingly... I'm all over the place... Aspects of level 1 I haven't really thought of as thoroughly as I should be. Meanwhile aspects of level 3 & 4 also exist in some of my transitions... Overall though, this video gave me a really good reality check that I appreciate! Thank you!
I’m new to DJing but within 2 months have been able to get myself up to Level 2 in this video and now ready to start exploring Level 3! I’m mainly focussing on Amapiano and House and loving the ability to play around with the two genres #WeAreCrossfader
I'm in level 4. But, I'm not just using these techniques but sampler, slicer and / or roll depends on what genre and song I'm mixing and how much I wanted to spiing up the mix.
Don't forget key matching!!!!!!!! Super essential skill for house Djs!!! At the top level this enables you to mix accapellas onto alternate instrumental tracks, effectively creating new versions live. As championed by Sasha in the early 90s. When it was a crap ton of work..... because you had to find tracks that were already in the right key at the right bpm as there was no timestretch becos it was all vinyl. Also required mad skills because your beat matching had to be stellar so as to keep it in time for the duration of the cut.
#WeareCrossFader : Me is at level 3 and pushing for level 4 everyday, I see the massive benefits mastering loops would bring to my genres. Im only on Pioneer entry level as used to spin records on 1210's in the 90's, with the release of the Pioneer DJ PLX-CRSS12, I'm glad I sold my ddj 1000 and down sized just for the time being to learn the basics. I did this not even knowing digital turntables where en route to the market, I can learn and study hardware whilst deciding where I want to land in terms of setup once I'm at the next level. I'm sure anyone with years of experience scratching vinyl on a 2 channel mixer has some transferable skills with fader cuts even on controllers, I know I plan to use this level to get back to some of my old skool crossfader wayz!
Bought a few days back my first DJ controller and started to learn to DJ. I already love it a lot but I've got still a lot of learning to do. So I'm at level 1 atm #WeAreCrossfader.
Love the info in this. I actually taught I was a Level 3 but after watching this I realise Im still #WeAreCrossfader - LEVEL 1. Really need to brush up on my skills.
#WeAreCrossfader - I’m at level 3 right now! This level seems most appropriate for the genre’s of House I’m into most at the moment. Melodic, Deep, Organic, minimal, ect. I do love to get down on some harder styles of house. I’m going to start to play around with level 4&5! We used to incorporate some of level 5 techniques with way less looping and effects when I spun Hardcore on vinyl 20 years ago. We would cut in stabs from say, track 1 into track 2, let them ride when appropriate, then cut back before the big vocal number. Ah, memories! Love the Podcast too!!!
#WeAreCrossfader - I'm just starting out as a DJ, and honestly, I'd rank myself at level zero or perhaps even -1. However, I have a profound love for this art, especially when it comes to mixing house music. Watching videos and learning about the different levels of DJing has been incredibly informative. I'm genuinely thankful to Jamie for sharing his advanced skills. It provides beginners like me a clear path and inspiration to refine our craft. I'm enthusiastic about this journey, and with guidance from professionals like Jamie, I'm optimistic about reaching a pro level one day.
#WeAreCrossfader - As a 50 year old who's recently got back into DJing as a hobby, having played house, techno and trance in the 90s, I guess i'm probably at level 3. What I find most challenging is learning the newer intermediate/advanced level transitions and best use of the effects that didn't really exist back in the analog era. I use both phase and serato dvs with turntables and a numark scratch mixer, as well as playing with an FLX4 for a bit of exposure to rekordbox and controller based mixing. This provides me with the best of both worlds while I decide what i prefer most and then i'll probably upgrade my gear at some point.
While my very, very first DJ set up was Gemini CD mixers that literally had trays that mechanically slid out to put the disk in, similar to full on stereos (but then also had a pitch slider and play/cue buttons), that set up was fairly short-lived once I got to Technique 1200’s and I kept those same turntables since about 1997. I am using the same turntables in one of my DJ practice videos I post. Mixers and styluses have changed, but not the turntables. I did buy a DDJ I think it was called. A tiny little controller that had a slot for an iPad or iPhone (any smart device) with DJPro to connect via USB. The possibilities excited me about the form factor turned out to make the DJing experience, not the most pleasant. I always felt like I was working to navigate the menus and Buttons more than being creative. But recently, I’ve definitely been considering one of the pioneer controllers. I like the RX3. I don’t need to stream music since I still prefer to have copies stored locally.. and the vast majority of tutorials are done on pioneers with the same basic features and layout. But I know I would be totally overwhelmed and stumped with how to really use it. Videos like these are a great help. Watching our levels, I think I’m barely a level 2 since I didn’t have any of these abilities on my vinyl turntables. I had them on my first little controller, but I guess I just didn’t feel creative enough on it to be able to/or want to do that.
#WeAreCrossfader - Just started my journey to learn how to DJ, and still at level 1! Seeing this makes me so excited to practice and learn, to get to higher levels!
#WeAreCrossfader - I'm at level 3 right now. Feel very lucky - only started DJying in Feb this year whilst out with pals kitesurfing in Morocco, I bought a DDJ & your FLX4 Course to get started. Now progressed to a performing 10 sets at a Beach restaurant , here on South Coast Uk. What an absolute Buzz & Mental fortitude 👍👍👍
#WeAreCrossfader I was DJ'ing back in the 90s on 1200's and just recently bought a DDJ-1000. It's a whole new world of learning loops and hot cue positioning! With that, I'd say I'm at level 2 - 3. Love your work #housemusicallnightlong
#WeAreCrossfader - I'm at level 1 right now! But, I'm feeling confident enough at this point to start dabbling with level 2! Much thanks to your Beginner's course!
#WeAreCrossfader - I am a comfy level 1. Level 2 is spicy and a level 3, only if I plan and spend hours preparing every single effect and then practice each transition 100s of times to create a set. If I'm mixing for hours, I'm generally playing level 1 or 2, experimenting with level 3 and playing a drunk level 4. Level 5 is not a train wreck... it's a mash-up! Thanks for awesome content, Jamie + team. It's really helped me get started, understand the basics and get over that imposter syndrome of being a female DJ! Appreciate the knowledge sharing! 🙏✌
#WeAreCrossfader - I am at level 4 right now! I´ve been loving the courses on the platform I´ve enrolled so far. Amazing work from you guys, keep it up!!
#WeAreCrossfader - I'm at level 4 right now! Level 5 looks pretty amazing, it gives you a new level of control and freedom on the desk ! Thank you for the video guys !
#WeAreCrossfader - I'm at level 2 right now! I do believe that I get stuck in a bubble where my creativity is limited as I don't know what steps I should take next to improve my mix. I end up doing the same transitions over and over again which gets quite boring for myself and for the listener. Thank you so much for this video, it has already given me A LOT of ideas. As always Crossfader, keep it up!!!
#WeAreCrossfader - I'm at level 2 right now! I’ve #WeAreCrossfader - I'm at level 3 right now! been djing just over a year now and it’s been amazing. The support from likeminded people and people who share the same passion for music has helped massively. I’m comfortable with Level 1 now but have started venturing into the grounds of Level 2 to expand what I can do across different Genres. The effects transitions are a new challenge for sure, but loving it 🙌🏻
I'm crossing the path to level three now - appreciate the easy to follow and quick intros to these videos. I think I spend too much time in song selection than just practicing mixing - which is my favorite part! #WeAreCrossfader
#WeAreCrossfader - Looping is my secret weapon for keeping the energy high in my house mixes. Thank you for another great video team! I'm at level 3-4 now, and I'm still learning new things every day.
#WeAreCrossfader - I'm at level 3 right now, but I'd love to step up the game and embrace my new hobby! Been following Crossfader since the start, keep up the good work introducing music to the world!
Don't worry to much about level... If you bring the tunes people want to hear you're golden... I can tolerate an amateur dj playing awesome tunes more than a great dj playing crappy tunes...
#WeAreCrossfader - Level 3, sometimes 4 if I'm feeling brave. I have a newfound respect for DJs. I've got a BA Hons in Music and production and assumed DJs just twiddled knobs. The onlooker may just see that and you could say that is also true for studio production. DJ'ing for me, is the equivalent of producing, but having to do it in front of an audience and under a 16 bar time pressure. It's that pressure to do all those things, within a short time frame and make it musical. Not easy, not easy at all.
I’d say I’m at level 4 right now. I’m experimenting a lot with loops at the moment and I’ve found it helps exponentially with things like phrasing too. I’m relatively new to DJing, looking to hopefully start making an income from it over the next year or so, and looping honestly has fast tracked a lot of my progress. So fun when you find a vocal or percussion section that adds an extra bit of spice to the transition. As always, love your content guys!
Still in the middle of perfecting Level 4, I've had about 5-6 years behind a mixer, but the majority of my development has definitely come in the last year
Hot cues are actually more complicated than I thought! It takes a lot of practice to really get it right! I personally love adding loops to build up with effects to bring in my second tracks but there’s a time and place for all of these transitions!
Very much a beginner DJ but I've been fooling around with all of these different mixing methods when practicing. Seriously crazy how many different ways there are to mix tracks together. I can also relate to the not always knowing what points to mix tracks together comment, but I guess that just comes with time/practice.
Happily at Level 4, I mostly use loops (as an Active Loop) to give me a little more time between transitions, a nice 16 bar loop can give me another 5-10s to get the next song perfectly lined up.
#WeAreCrossfader - I'm extremely new to this sport, picked up a small controller a couple weeks ago to see how I'd enjoy it.. Fast forward two weeks, numerous UA-cam videos and scouring all your courses for the free intro videos.. I feel I'm currently sitting at level 2. That being said, I feel I've started learning Loops before Hot Cue's - (not sure if this is due to the fact that many of the tracks I'm using are not extended versions so almost need to create my own extended version with loops). Granted, the main loop transition I'm confident at is from your Instagram reel with Fred Again-Kammy to Biscits-Me&U.. where you chop the loop between 1/2+1/4 beats and then mix out with the filter. All in all - Really enjoying the content your team creates and have learned a lot from you so far so thank you!
#WeAreCrossfader - I'm at level 3.5 right now. I am pretty OCD when it comes to my track-prep, but I need to up my game on pushing the bounds of what effects can do. Jamie - you are rocking the "new hair."
Un video espectacular, me encanta con la flulidez que hace las mezclas el DJ. Yo considero que estoy entre el nivel 2 y 3, pues si intento hacer algo mas avanzado, se me trunca todo.
Hi Jamie, after 2 years of training I would say I’m about on level 3 I have 3 of your courses I just think I’m not dedicated after my cardiac arrest. I was on my decks a 1am the other morning. 🤠
Level 3 for me but thats more to do with 2 factors, 1- I still prefer to use Vinyls over the CDJs I own, 2. My Fav DJ is Matt Jam Lamont, he just keeps his mixes simple which ive just taken his style of Djaying! Ive never heard him use a loop or ECO button which is different to DJ EZ who uses everything!
#WeAreCrossfader - Level 4 is where I land at. I have been looping for a while now, but sometimes I think I could be a lot more selective at which points I use them. I love hot ques for knowing where I'm at in a track, and connect parts as needed to move a mix through long tracks quicker. Level 4 though so that is my choice. Love all of these techniques, THANK YOU!!!!
I'm at a 3-4. I use loops a lot as my way in and out of songs. And I use the filter to bring in new tracks as well. Lately, I have the EQs set to kill and I'll bring up the volume fader with a loop on. Usually I start with the highs and introduce those into the playing track, then the minds will be at 9 or 11 depending on their heaviness, and finally, I'll either fade in the Bass or do a swap. My loops are usually instrumental, but if there's a cool phrase or word in the beginning or near the end of a track, I'll loop that and play with it. Also, I use VDJ, so sometimes I a capella a vocal out using stems before starting the new track. Or I'll drop the vocal out to give me a longer runway. Another thing I'll do, if the vocals go right to the end (like in pop, rock, hip hop, etc) is I let the song end, pause for a beat and then start the new track at the exciting or vocal part. Getting into and out of tracks is fun because it's a bit of a puzzle and I like figuring out what's the best way to move between two tracks. What I need to practice more is the hot cue jumps.
In my opinion the level of mixing is not about using more effects or loops. You maybe need a bit more skill for the higher levels, but thats not what djing is about. Its about the fact at which position of the track you mix and how you maintain the attention of the dancers. If u get the crowd with your „Level 1 or 2 Mixing“ then its Level 5 Mixing. Anyways you showed some nice techniques how to mix. You should have called it „5 ways of mixing house“.
Could not agree more
Nailed it ! Cheers,
i think the point of the video is talking about the technical side of djing (which only makes up about 20% of being a DJ)
Indeed, that's why I can't enjoy DJs like James Hype, so impressive technically but his mixing has no soul
Agree 100%. I want to go next level with a complex mix but I can’t think on the fly that fast. I would have to adhere to a strict playlist that I have practiced before the set to pull of complex mixes with loops and effects. Most of my time DJing is thinking about the crowd which often throws a curveball to what I planned on playing and I favour rolling with the vibe of the crowd than the vibe of my mix.
I’ve been DJing for around 25 years on vinyl. Then moved to digital over the last 10 years, I would say I’m on level 2 because I feel it’s a safe bet. As a rare groove Dj with a bit of house thrown in I really get to know the tracks I play before I begin to make translations with them. Would really love to move to stage 3-4, will need a lot of practice time to feel comfortable to step up to those levels. Keep up the good work, you’re teaching style is second to none.
5 props to Jamie I’ve been DJing for over 35+ and had many mentors ,contemporaries and teachers. He explains mixing House just about as good as anyone #fairplay
I've been a bedroom DJ for 3 years now, and I feel like I'm still in level one with slow blend mixing, but after watching this video and taking you guys (Crossfader) How to Mix House Music course, I'm in now in level 2 and working on all the way to level 5.
As I’ve been DJing for 15 years, I would say I’m in between Level 4-5 (4.5). Even for someone like me, it takes a lot of confidence to master mixing with “Fader cuts” to a high level like James Hype on a consistent basis. But just like with anything, practice comes consistency over time. I would say I’m still someone that’s learning to perfect “fader cutting”.
I add a lot of loops to my mixes as I like the creative side to looping tracks and mixing with them - and the more you get better at it, the easier DJing becomes.
For anyone learning how to DJ or even DJing already, the biggest takeaway you can do is by consistently watching other DJ’s on UA-cam (and just focus on the music and watch their hands). Aside from that, definitely join Crossfader DJ courses!
❤ I am at level five for the past 18 years and it have thousands of ways to mix songs just
Love what you doing
And you will get it right I am from Trinidad and Tobago.
crazy man, so many experience thanks for sharing. Greetings from Guayaquil, Ecuador, South America
Level 3 for me. But I feel like Level 1 and 2 are the safest bet if you don't know the songs too well. It's also the most "seamless" transition, so personally, I like it more. For Level 3 onwards, you definitely need a lot of practice. (Maybe Sync helps too
Level 1 and 2 is what’s we could do with vinyl. I really appreciate the ability to loop and jump cues that digital controllers provide.
@@whlewis9164 oh yes. I learned from Vinyl too, but never really made a huge jump to all the loops and syncs. Maybe I should.
"Level 5" was honestly a bit annoying lol. Think it really depends what tracks or style you're playing, sometimes its best to not draw attention away from the original production
😅
on point about track knowledge. i definitely find myself sticking close to 1-2 when i just downloaded a hundred new tracks for a set at a regular venue that I might have played at very recently.
I mix tech house just as my hobby and have done for years , I always watch your videos and really enjoy them Jamie a massive respect to you , after watching this one I feel like I have so much to learn and am interested to do so . On this basis I put myself at level 1 back to a total beginner.
I feel like you left out some options:
- the long blend: finding two tracks that really marry well together, and then riding the EQ/Filter to make it work
- the quick cut: sometimes a quick fader swap makes the biggest impact, especially if mixing in something with a different rhythmic pattern (ie, electro, breaks)
- keep the loop going: set a shorter loop of the outgoing track, ideally something more minimal and percussive, to keep it going and bring something new to the incoming track. Also works well as a way to tease the next track for a while before it comes in.
To my ears, #5 is grating and showy, more of a performance trick than something that enhances the mix sonically, but to each, their own.
Agreed, more than once or twice in a set for #5 style becomes grating very quickly. Different styles of music will suit different transitions, DnB is all about the quick cuts and double drops, House you can get away with really long blends and loops easily. All comes with practice and experimentation. Playing to your environment is also key; early set at a small club, stick to the clean basics. Late night closing house set; longer hypnotic blends. Late night anything else; DO NOT do ridiculous showy nonsense, people are too cooked to pay attention and just want a song to play. Big outdoor crowd; get a bit more showy with it.
#6 basic tone play and back and forth blend. I love quicker more subtle uses of this without a whole routine. Can be done with a few cues. Also added back and forth blends Mashups without stem swaps. At this point a variety Stem mixes needed to be added to basics. They can quickly become easier and better than a lot of alternatives
One of best YT videos I've seen on DJing - endless hours of tutorials condensed in one less than 10min video. Thanks!! Probs lvl 3.5 here :)
FLX4 arrived yesterday in the post so you guys couldn’t have dropped this video at a better time - much love 🔥❤
been DJing for 2 months and I would like to think I have level 4 down!! wish I started years ago
..first learn all the technical features of the cdj's and the mixer, then use your imagination, sky is the limit....😃
Sometimes yes. Or just jump into it, make errors or do things the hard way when there's a shortcut. I first unleashed my imagination to Photoshop, then learned the (non basic) functions after, sort of.
@@MvD-kt2rx Photoshop is a good example to this, first you learn the tools and its functions and you build on it.
yep learn the rules like a pro and break them like an artist. you also need music theory otherwise you are gonna key clash
@@AlexAlcyone Pretty sure I've heard from different experienced DJs you don't really need to know any "mix in key" as long as you know the tracks and can read the crowd correctly to pick the next track..
Id say after 11 years i could do all of these things but looping is such a good skill to perfect. Takes your mixing to a new planet
A very clear demonstration of basic transitions. Very helpful. Thank you.
I’m a purist at heart so I’m very much on the smooth eq blending type of style. Jamie you do an incredible job here illustrating what is possible, some serious skills. To anybody perhaps missing the point here, the more advanced skills are worth having, even if you don’t use them as part of your set. Being able to do some of these performative skills, can actually save you in a dance, say for example a technical issue means you have to leave a track playing for longer while it gets fixed and you want to keep things interesting. If you take your eye off the ball and don’t have much time to get the next song in, looping the outgoing track can enable you to build the mix coming in for a bit longer, thus avoiding a drop in energy.
I’d say learn everything you can over time, just to have it on your toolkit, you may only use it very occasionally but the more tools you have, the better job you are going to do.
3 years in and still level 1 :) Thank you for the video. It was very informative
it seems level 1 in the video is safe and pretty good for just basement parties. does the equipment such as your board matter when going to parties or such the music itself?
Level 5. I've been practicing for almost 3 years everyday for more than 3 hours/day. Practice and love make it real
Amazing video, having all the levels laid out side by side gives us a roadmap on what to work on and tools to add to our kit. In between levels 2 to 3 currently!
i feel proud of me, i just have 3 years as a dj and i can say i have the level 5, is much fun being creative and have your own style, also that's a way to be different from the others djs
I usually loop the track that I’m bringing in to avoid clashing. Can be tricky sometimes though. Thanks for the tips as always guys. I wouldn’t know half the stuff I k ow if it wasn’t for y’all and others on UA-cam ❤️
I'm 51 years old, and i'm an old school Dj from the early 90's. Back then it took skills to master the art of Djing, using Technics 1210MK2 turntables and a Numark mixer, yes, Numark Mixers was the top of the line back then. So last year i was thinking, i can do that, it's too easy, so i bought a Numark Mix Track Pro FX Platinum, the best entry level controller in 2020, and boy was i right, 2 weeks later i was at level 5. it is so easy that it is embarrassing to see Dj's today, James Hype is the only exception!
I’m a newish DJ. Bought my first deck during Covid and have just recently really started getting serous about practicing. I played a few times in my camp at Burning Man and recently at a house party. People told me they loved the sets, and I was actually surprised how well I did! I would say i am currently a 2 or 3 but really loving playing around and learning new techniques. Have learned a lot from watching the excellent videos from #WeAreCrossfader. Thanks Jamie!
There's so much content in this 9 min video for any Dj out there looking to learn or even take a step back to the basics! Jaime is a Master at showing multiple ways of taking 2 songs and making something completely new. -- Juice Out!
it's fun mixing at the higher levels but I think the best mix is the simple one when you don't need to eq much at all and rely on the pairing of the tracks to rift off each other. All have their place for changing things up but effortless mixes sound timeless and never cheesy
#WeAreCrossfader - I'm at level 2 right now!
We need a similar video for Techno, with levels
Yea mate 😎👊🏻
#WeAreCrossfader Level 2/3 vibes over here and learning more each day! Grateful for these kinds of videos that share different techniques and formats of mixing the same songs!
Level 2, just started…haven’t completely mastered level 1, but I dabble with level 2 …brand new to djing, and enjoying learning a new skill
I love this comment section. Lots of honest descriptions of current skill level and goals. Not so much, "Vinyl is better because...." "Only if you press sync...". Respect to vinyl gang, respect to CDJ/DDJ gang, respect to sync gang. Sound you make is more important than what you're pressing. Cheers.
I'd say I'm working on level 2. I'm able to balance the mix between songs at a comfortable level and in the past few weeks I've started to apply more effects to vary my transitions so it's not so predictable. Been mixing casually since February for friends at home.
i figured all this out 20 years ago as the tech was advancing. if you cant come up with what's shown here by pure imagination and exploration, oh boy.
this should be the entry test for any so called "dj skool." all the skill in the world wont make up for talent.... unless you can buy your "opportunities" then you can become the number one dj.
It’s really great how you use the same tracks with each technique. It really helps me understand the differences between how the techniques will sound to the audience. When videos use different songs for each technique it’s hard to get a feel for the vibe of each tradition type.
As someone who has been djing with Vinyl for about 15 years, I think it is very impressive how djing has been changed. But until today, I have never seen anybody doing something on digital decks, that would been impressive at all. I compare it with painting: digital painting might have amazing beautiful results, but on the end it’s not satisfying to watch. But a true hand painted picture with oil is on another level. Maybe this is why I quit clubbing and djing, because there is no satisfaction for me anymore, listen to the very same sets without any true soul. But I think this video is great, don’t take my words personal. I just think a dj is using Vinyl only or nothing
Im def level one but have been using loops a bit. Thanks!
Vinyl DJ/Turntablist got back in a yr ago after 25yrs. Play a wide variety of music. Biggest takeaway is know your music and have control over it. Same way I do if I’m playing a 90’s hip hop song and juggling / scratching. Need to spend more time in my deep house crates and not just use lexicon to set my cues. I certainly don’t let it set cues for my best juggles or scratches! Now on that #5 I’d have been switching between a transformer, twiddle, and crab ;)
I started not too long ago, so I'm probably a 2. Hearing 4-5 gives me motivation to continue delving into/attempting/practicing these advanced techniques!
After 13-15 years of djing I can confidently say that it's extremely taxing to keep up with level 4-5 if you're doing a residency ontop of a full booking schedule. It's fine for touring because you're typically playing larger or arguably more experiencing crowd and if you're signed to a label you better understand that the people that are coming to see you expect a show. These crowds are typically more knowledgeable about not only the lables music and it's artists, but your music and dj style as well.
However, if you're the 1st option mentioned, you're still extremely busy but night after night performing like James Hype is just going to burn you out, especially for 2-3 hour sets. Also if you're the type of dj that invites friends to the club, be mindful of friends that pass you shots and drinks all night because talking from experience, you tend to accidentally overreach when you're drunk and things can get super messy, quick - so trying to operate at level 4-5 drunk is just not recommended for the faint of heart.
Lastly, take everything im saying with a grain of salt, if you're just starting out but you've been bedroom djing for 5+ years while also practicing at least 1 hour a day, then it's finally your chance to showcase your talent, but just know your limits as it's not only your reputation in the balance, but also the clubs/venues, and your audiences hard earned $$$ they've chosen to spend to see you.
#WeAreCrossfader --> I think I am in level 2. I started DJing five months ago. I have been following you for at least 2 years and with your help I hope to improve myself more. :) Thank you!
Two killer tracks and an epic tutorial.. Appreciate you!
#WeAreCrossfader - I'm at level 1 right now!, I'm new to house music in generally but I'm really enjoying this kind of mixing, much love to the dj/producer community and crossfader fam😊❤
Level 0, but here to learn
I'm a Latin Dj, Focusing mainly on Bachata, Salsa, and Now with Crossfader as my Online Dj Tutors, I'm getting into Mixing House Music. I would say at Level 2 atm! Looking to rise with CF!!!!
I have been DJing for 8yrs now so I will say level 1 is best for me❤
Clear, concise explanation thanx. Felt my mixing was getting stale or samey after two years. Thanks for the reboot man. Well worth a watch
Unsurprisingly... I'm all over the place...
Aspects of level 1 I haven't really thought of as thoroughly as I should be.
Meanwhile aspects of level 3 & 4 also exist in some of my transitions...
Overall though, this video gave me a really good reality check that I appreciate! Thank you!
I’m new to DJing but within 2 months have been able to get myself up to Level 2 in this video and now ready to start exploring Level 3! I’m mainly focussing on Amapiano and House and loving the ability to play around with the two genres #WeAreCrossfader
I'm in level 4. But, I'm not just using these techniques but sampler, slicer and / or roll depends on what genre and song I'm mixing and how much I wanted to spiing up the mix.
Level 3 here, just got the intermediate course so I can keep leveling up. Love these videos
sick video! level 3 for sure...seeing that 5th level is inspirational
Don't forget key matching!!!!!!!! Super essential skill for house Djs!!! At the top level this enables you to mix accapellas onto alternate instrumental tracks, effectively creating new versions live. As championed by Sasha in the early 90s. When it was a crap ton of work..... because you had to find tracks that were already in the right key at the right bpm as there was no timestretch becos it was all vinyl. Also required mad skills because your beat matching had to be stellar so as to keep it in time for the duration of the cut.
#WeareCrossFader : Me is at level 3 and pushing for level 4 everyday, I see the massive benefits mastering loops would bring to my genres. Im only on Pioneer entry level as used to spin records on 1210's in the 90's, with the release of the Pioneer DJ PLX-CRSS12, I'm glad I sold my ddj 1000 and down sized just for the time being to learn the basics. I did this not even knowing digital turntables where en route to the market, I can learn and study hardware whilst deciding where I want to land in terms of setup once I'm at the next level. I'm sure anyone with years of experience scratching vinyl on a 2 channel mixer has some transferable skills with fader cuts even on controllers, I know I plan to use this level to get back to some of my old skool crossfader wayz!
Bought a few days back my first DJ controller and started to learn to DJ. I already love it a lot but I've got still a lot of learning to do. So I'm at level 1 atm #WeAreCrossfader.
Thanks for this. Just starting to hit level 3 and nice to see the scope of beginner to advanced like this. Love the haircut!
Love the info in this. I actually taught I was a Level 3 but after watching this I realise Im still #WeAreCrossfader - LEVEL 1. Really need to brush up on my skills.
#WeAreCrossfader - I’m at level 3 right now! This level seems most appropriate for the genre’s of House I’m into most at the moment. Melodic, Deep, Organic, minimal, ect.
I do love to get down on some harder styles of house. I’m going to start to play around with level 4&5! We used to incorporate some of level 5 techniques with way less looping and effects when I spun Hardcore on vinyl 20 years ago. We would cut in stabs from say, track 1 into track 2, let them ride when appropriate, then cut back before the big vocal number. Ah, memories!
Love the Podcast too!!!
#WeAreCrossfader - I'm just starting out as a DJ, and honestly, I'd rank myself at level zero or perhaps even -1. However, I have a profound love for this art, especially when it comes to mixing house music. Watching videos and learning about the different levels of DJing has been incredibly informative. I'm genuinely thankful to Jamie for sharing his advanced skills. It provides beginners like me a clear path and inspiration to refine our craft. I'm enthusiastic about this journey, and with guidance from professionals like Jamie, I'm optimistic about reaching a pro level one day.
#WeAreCrossfader - As a 50 year old who's recently got back into DJing as a hobby, having played house, techno and trance in the 90s, I guess i'm probably at level 3. What I find most challenging is learning the newer intermediate/advanced level transitions and best use of the effects that didn't really exist back in the analog era. I use both phase and serato dvs with turntables and a numark scratch mixer, as well as playing with an FLX4 for a bit of exposure to rekordbox and controller based mixing. This provides me with the best of both worlds while I decide what i prefer most and then i'll probably upgrade my gear at some point.
4.3 ! love this material ! please keep teaching us ! You are amazing bro! Best wishes from Argentina. Messi's land.
While my very, very first DJ set up was Gemini CD mixers that literally had trays that mechanically slid out to put the disk in, similar to full on stereos (but then also had a pitch slider and play/cue buttons), that set up was fairly short-lived once I got to Technique 1200’s and I kept those same turntables since about 1997. I am using the same turntables in one of my DJ practice videos I post. Mixers and styluses have changed, but not the turntables.
I did buy a DDJ I think it was called. A tiny little controller that had a slot for an iPad or iPhone (any smart device) with DJPro to connect via USB. The possibilities excited me about the form factor turned out to make the DJing experience, not the most pleasant. I always felt like I was working to navigate the menus and Buttons more than being creative. But recently, I’ve definitely been considering one of the pioneer controllers. I like the RX3. I don’t need to stream music since I still prefer to have copies stored locally.. and the vast majority of tutorials are done on pioneers with the same basic features and layout.
But I know I would be totally overwhelmed and stumped with how to really use it. Videos like these are a great help. Watching our levels, I think I’m barely a level 2 since I didn’t have any of these abilities on my vinyl turntables. I had them on my first little controller, but I guess I just didn’t feel creative enough on it to be able to/or want to do that.
Level1 for me. Used to Dj 20 years ago. The equipment had change so much
#WeAreCrossfader - Just started my journey to learn how to DJ, and still at level 1! Seeing this makes me so excited to practice and learn, to get to higher levels!
This is the first time I’ve ever really gotten to see how this works. It’s fascinating!
#WeAreCrossfader - I'm at level 3 right now. Feel very lucky - only started DJying in Feb this year whilst out with pals kitesurfing in Morocco, I bought a DDJ & your FLX4 Course to get started. Now progressed to a performing 10 sets at a Beach restaurant , here on South Coast Uk. What an absolute Buzz &
Mental fortitude 👍👍👍
#WeAreCrossfader I was DJ'ing back in the 90s on 1200's and just recently bought a DDJ-1000. It's a whole new world of learning loops and hot cue positioning! With that, I'd say I'm at level 2 - 3. Love your work #housemusicallnightlong
#WeAreCrossfader - I'm at level 1 right now! But, I'm feeling confident enough at this point to start dabbling with level 2! Much thanks to your Beginner's course!
#WeAreCrossfader - I am a comfy level 1.
Level 2 is spicy and a level 3, only if I plan and spend hours preparing every single effect and then practice each transition 100s of times to create a set. If I'm mixing for hours, I'm generally playing level 1 or 2, experimenting with level 3 and playing a drunk level 4. Level 5 is not a train wreck... it's a mash-up!
Thanks for awesome content, Jamie + team. It's really helped me get started, understand the basics and get over that imposter syndrome of being a female DJ! Appreciate the knowledge sharing! 🙏✌
#WeAreCrossfader - I am at level 4 right now! I´ve been loving the courses on the platform I´ve enrolled so far. Amazing work from you guys, keep it up!!
#WeAreCrossfader - I'm at level 4 right now!
Level 5 looks pretty amazing, it gives you a new level of control and freedom on the desk ! Thank you for the video guys !
Well put together instructional video, great stuff. Currently floating between level 3 and 4 (ish)
OMG, the last one is so good, I listened to it 10 times in a row at max volume 🔥
#WeAreCrossfader - I'm at level 1 right now! Just a couple of weeks into it.
#WeAreCrossfader - I'm at level 2 right now! I do believe that I get stuck in a bubble where my creativity is limited as I don't know what steps I should take next to improve my mix. I end up doing the same transitions over and over again which gets quite boring for myself and for the listener. Thank you so much for this video, it has already given me A LOT of ideas. As always Crossfader, keep it up!!!
#WeAreCrossfader - I'm at level 2 right now!
I’ve #WeAreCrossfader - I'm at level 3 right now! been djing just over a year now and it’s been amazing. The support from likeminded people and people who share the same passion for music has helped massively.
I’m comfortable with Level 1 now but have started venturing into the grounds of Level 2 to expand what I can do across different Genres.
The effects transitions are a new challenge for sure, but loving it 🙌🏻
I'm crossing the path to level three now - appreciate the easy to follow and quick intros to these videos. I think I spend too much time in song selection than just practicing mixing - which is my favorite part! #WeAreCrossfader
#WeAreCrossfader - Looping is my secret weapon for keeping the energy high in my house mixes. Thank you for another great video team! I'm at level 3-4 now, and I'm still learning new things every day.
#WeAreCrossfader - I'm at level 3 right now, but I'd love to step up the game and embrace my new hobby!
Been following Crossfader since the start, keep up the good work introducing music to the world!
Dancing favours level 2-3. Simplicity is best sometimes. Shout out James Hype though. I love his energy!
WeAreCrossfader - I'm at level 1 right now!
Love mixing house music, love learning this new skill
Don't worry to much about level... If you bring the tunes people want to hear you're golden... I can tolerate an amateur dj playing awesome tunes more than a great dj playing crappy tunes...
#WeAreCrossfader - Level 3, sometimes 4 if I'm feeling brave. I have a newfound respect for DJs. I've got a BA Hons in Music and production and assumed DJs just twiddled knobs. The onlooker may just see that and you could say that is also true for studio production. DJ'ing for me, is the equivalent of producing, but having to do it in front of an audience and under a 16 bar time pressure. It's that pressure to do all those things, within a short time frame and make it musical. Not easy, not easy at all.
Nah level 4 got me hooked. I’ll be watching all the courses now to get there!! I’m inspired
I’d say I’m at level 4 right now. I’m experimenting a lot with loops at the moment and I’ve found it helps exponentially with things like phrasing too. I’m relatively new to DJing, looking to hopefully start making an income from it over the next year or so, and looping honestly has fast tracked a lot of my progress. So fun when you find a vocal or percussion section that adds an extra bit of spice to the transition. As always, love your content guys!
Still in the middle of perfecting Level 4, I've had about 5-6 years behind a mixer, but the majority of my development has definitely come in the last year
Hot cues are actually more complicated than I thought! It takes a lot of practice to really get it right! I personally love adding loops to build up with effects to bring in my second tracks but there’s a time and place for all of these transitions!
Level 2 for me, I mix as a hobby on my free time. Still have a lot of to learn!
Very much a beginner DJ but I've been fooling around with all of these different mixing methods when practicing. Seriously crazy how many different ways there are to mix tracks together. I can also relate to the not always knowing what points to mix tracks together comment, but I guess that just comes with time/practice.
Happily at Level 4, I mostly use loops (as an Active Loop) to give me a little more time between transitions, a nice 16 bar loop can give me another 5-10s to get the next song perfectly lined up.
#WeAreCrossfader - I'm extremely new to this sport, picked up a small controller a couple weeks ago to see how I'd enjoy it.. Fast forward two weeks, numerous UA-cam videos and scouring all your courses for the free intro videos.. I feel I'm currently sitting at level 2.
That being said, I feel I've started learning Loops before Hot Cue's - (not sure if this is due to the fact that many of the tracks I'm using are not extended versions so almost need to create my own extended version with loops). Granted, the main loop transition I'm confident at is from your Instagram reel with Fred Again-Kammy to Biscits-Me&U.. where you chop the loop between 1/2+1/4 beats and then mix out with the filter.
All in all - Really enjoying the content your team creates and have learned a lot from you so far so thank you!
Definitely 3 slowly making my way to 4! Definitely requieres a lot of practice and knowledge of the songs!
#WeAreCrossfader - I'm at level 3.5 right now. I am pretty OCD when it comes to my track-prep, but I need to up my game on pushing the bounds of what effects can do.
Jamie - you are rocking the "new hair."
Un video espectacular, me encanta con la flulidez que hace las mezclas el DJ. Yo considero que estoy entre el nivel 2 y 3, pues si intento hacer algo mas avanzado, se me trunca todo.
Level 4 for me. This video helped me put my skill level into perspective. Thank u. Now for me to keep practicing...
Hi Jamie, after 2 years of training I would say I’m about on level 3 I have 3 of your courses I just think I’m not dedicated after my cardiac arrest. I was on my decks a 1am the other morning. 🤠
#WeAreCrossfader - I'm level 1. Just started to lean Dj. hahaha.
Thanks for the video! They all very helpful for beginner like me.
Always been on vinyl but these cdjs are next level fascinating bits of kit. I'm getting the 800s soon .
#WeAreCrossfader + at level 2 currently and starting to dabble with hot cues. Love what you are doing keep it up.
Level 3 for me but thats more to do with 2 factors, 1- I still prefer to use Vinyls over the CDJs I own, 2. My Fav DJ is Matt Jam Lamont, he just keeps his mixes simple which ive just taken his style of Djaying! Ive never heard him use a loop or ECO button which is different to DJ EZ who uses everything!
#WeAreCrossfader - Level 4 is where I land at. I have been looping for a while now, but sometimes I think I could be a lot more selective at which points I use them. I love hot ques for knowing where I'm at in a track, and connect parts as needed to move a mix through long tracks quicker. Level 4 though so that is my choice. Love all of these techniques, THANK YOU!!!!
I'm at a 3-4. I use loops a lot as my way in and out of songs. And I use the filter to bring in new tracks as well. Lately, I have the EQs set to kill and I'll bring up the volume fader with a loop on. Usually I start with the highs and introduce those into the playing track, then the minds will be at 9 or 11 depending on their heaviness, and finally, I'll either fade in the Bass or do a swap.
My loops are usually instrumental, but if there's a cool phrase or word in the beginning or near the end of a track, I'll loop that and play with it.
Also, I use VDJ, so sometimes I a capella a vocal out using stems before starting the new track. Or I'll drop the vocal out to give me a longer runway.
Another thing I'll do, if the vocals go right to the end (like in pop, rock, hip hop, etc) is I let the song end, pause for a beat and then start the new track at the exciting or vocal part.
Getting into and out of tracks is fun because it's a bit of a puzzle and I like figuring out what's the best way to move between two tracks. What I need to practice more is the hot cue jumps.