Open Format DJs are DJs who play multiple genres of music in their DJ set. They are highly skilled DJs who can seamlessly traverse different BPMs, keys and styles of music. They are highly sought after for this skill and their ability to mix different genres of music in one continuous mix.

What styles of music do open-format DJs play?

Open-format DJs will play a range of genres and generally adjust their track selection to suit the audience. They will read the crowd and play the music that the audience reacts positively to.

Open-format DJs are intuitive and empathic to the wants and desires of the audience. They will play tracks that are well-known alongside new remixes and fresh music. They will blend the perfect mix of genres and styles within their DJ set. To successfully create perfect transitions between different genres of music and different BPMs they will utilise a range of advanced DJ skills including turntablism, loops, FX and sampling.

Open-Format DJing: The Ultimate Guide to Mixing Different Genres and Keeping the Crowd Dancing

Want to know how to mix open-format? Let’s first start with what DJ equipment and software you’ll want to use.

There are many different DJ setups that open-format DJs will use. The most popular software programs for open-format DJs are Serato and Rekordbox. Both programs work with the Pioneer DJ Equipment you find in most professional venues.

Laptop or stick?

Some open-format DJs will use a laptop connected to the club's decks. This is a great option if you want access to a large library of music and a bigger screen. Many open-format DJs prefer using a laptop for this reason. Some open-format DJs, perhaps those playing at venues with the latest Pioneer DJ equipment, might prefer to use a USB. DJs can load their playlists onto a USB stick and then plug and play at the venue. This is admittedly more convenient than using a laptop.

Where do open-format DJs get their music?

Open-format DJs embrace the art of playlisting, selecting music and curating setlists. They will scour record shops, online retailers, blogs, SoundCloud and more for the best music to add to their DJ set. Here are some of the places where open-format DJs will source their music from.

• Bandcamp

• Beatport & Beatport Link

• Soundcloud

• Tidal (linked to your DJ software)

• Beatsource (linked to your DJ software)

• Promo Lists

• Friends & Other DJs

Click here for an extensive guide on where open-format DJs get their music from.

How do I become an open-format DJ?

If you’d like to learn how to DJ or become an open-format DJ contact London Sound Academy. LSA offers a range of DJ courses from beginner to elite all authorised by Pioneer DJ. All LSA DJ courses are taught one-to-one so you will have a dedicated DJ tutor and the flexibility to choose your own DJ lesson schedule.

Want to learn more about how to make money from open-format DJing? Click here for LSA’s guide on open-format DJing.