Understanding Traditional DJing 🎧

Author: DJ Divana, Ecstatic Dance DJ

Amsterdam's gift to Ecstatic Dance, DJ & teacher Navid Divana mesmerises audiences with a diverse array of tunes from across genres and regions. Known for his originality and experimentation, Navid adapts his style to the atmosphere of each event, seamlessly navigating from ambient melodies to euphoric peaks and everything in between.

Introduction to Traditional DJing
As someone who's been DJing for nearly two decades, I've had the opportunity to explore various styles, from traditional club DJing to the more open format of Ecstatic Dance. When I say "Traditional DJing" I refer to DJing around specific genre, whether it's techno, house, or hip-hop.

The Club Setup
In a traditional DJ setup, the equipment is usually standardized. DJs often bring a USB stick or laptop loaded with their tracks and connect it to the club’s media players and mixers. The sound is loud, the beats are driving, and the focus is on maintaining a steady, high-energy vibe. Small variations in tempo and track selection are used to keep the crowd engaged, but the overall goal is consistency in energy and style.

What a Traditional DJ may look like 👆🏼

What Sets Ecstatic Dance DJing Apart?

An Open Format Approach
Ecstatic Dance DJing, on the other hand, is a completely different experience. This style is the most diverse form of DJing I’ve encountered, offering an open format that spans multiple genres and moods. Unlike the genre-specific focus of traditional DJing, Ecstatic Dance allows for a much broader musical journey. DJs are not confined to a single style; instead, they weave together a tapestry of sounds that guide dancers through various emotional landscapes.

The Ecstatic Dance Setup
In Ecstatic Dance, the DJ often needs to bring their own equipment, such as a controller and laptop, and connect it to the venue's audio system. The environment is more intimate, with participants fully tuned into the music. There’s no talking, and the energy is allowed to ebb and flow naturally. This setup encourages subtlety in transitions and creativity in track selection, as the DJ leads the dancers on a dynamic and immersive journey through sound.

What an Ecstatic Dance DJ may look like 👆🏼

Comparing the Two Styles

Traditional DJing vs. Ecstatic Dance DJing

• Traditional DJing:
  • Focus: Genre-specific, consistent energy.
  • Setup: Standard club gear, loud sound systems.
  • Style: Small tempo changes within a single genre, maintaining a high-energy atmosphere.
• Ecstatic Dance DJing:
  • Focus: Open format, varied energy levels.
  • Setup: Personal equipment required, intimate sound environment.
  • Style: Diverse genres, subtle transitions, storytelling through music.

Why Choose Ecstatic Dance DJing?

The Appeal of Ecstatic Dance
For those who find traditional DJing too repetitive or restrictive, Ecstatic Dance offers a refreshing alternative. The open format and varied energy levels make it a more dynamic and engaging experience. It's about more than just keeping the crowd moving—it's about creating a deep connection between the music, the DJ, and the dancers. This style is particularly appealing to those who enjoy a diverse musical journey that flows through different moods and vibes.

Becoming an Ecstatic Dance DJ
If you're an aspiring DJ interested in exploring this unique style, Ecstatic Dance DJing could be the perfect fit. It allows for greater creativity and personal expression, making it an exciting path for those looking to move beyond the boundaries of traditional DJing. If this is something that resonates with you, I invite you to try out our free mini course (sign up is at the bottom of this page). 

FAQs

1. How to start Ecstatic Dance DJing?
   Start by going to Ecstatic Dance events yourself. Start understanding the flow of energy in an Ecstatic Dance set, learn about it's history & guidelines and start experimenting with diverse musical genres. Consider taking specialized courses to hone your skills.

2. What is Ecstatic Dance DJing?
   Ecstatic Dance DJing is an open format style that spans multiple genres, focusing on creating a dynamic journey through music, with varied energy levels and subtle transitions.

3. How is Ecstatic Dance DJing different from traditional DJing?
   Unlike traditional DJing, which is often genre-specific and high-energy, Ecstatic Dance DJing allows for more varied energy levels, genre diversity, and a focus on storytelling through music.

4. Why choose Ecstatic Dance DJing over other styles?
   Ecstatic Dance DJing offers greater creative freedom, the ability to connect deeply with the audience, and the opportunity to explore a wider range of musical styles.

5. What equipment do I need for Ecstatic Dance DJing?
   Typically, you’ll need a DJ controller, laptop, speakers, headphones and dj software.