Miss Diamond: top tips for new DJ's

1. Choose an identity

Your stage image is going to stick with you and needs to make sense for the scene you want to be a part of. So clarify your tastes and your ideal audience, and figure out how your persona fits in.

2. Get smart

You can't rely on all the old tricks and techniquest that got you to where you are...invest in some new music, listen to trends, check out new scenes, and adapt. If you aren't growing and innovating, you're going to become obselete.

3. Sell yourself

If you don't know how to market yourself, someone else is going to push you out of the way. The secret to popularity often lies in combining DJ skill and marketing prowess. That said, sell yourself, but don't sell out--stay true to who you are.

4. Have more than one skill

If you have only one skill that you are relying on (music selection, sample library, software, connections in the industry, etc), you need to diversify...don't be a one trick pony. Maybe you can mix the sickest beats, but you also need to know how to interact with people in the business.

5. Work hard

Yeah, we know, it sounds pretty basic, but nothing beats old-fashioned, hard word. That means meeting new people, collaborating, humbling yourself enough to learn from others, holding dialogue and sharing with other DJ's, and practicing regularly like you are preparing for your first gig.

Miss Diamond DJane hopes you will have a long and happy career as a DJ, and if you follow these little tips, there is no doubt that you're on your way! Stay positive!