The Art of the Mixx
Segueing from one song to the next using the “sync button,” a feature which is prevalent on most DJ Controllers, has been a source of discussion/debate among DJs.
The “Sync” button matches two songs together electronically, without the DJ having to beat match the songs manually. Purists, frown on the sync button as it is viewed in their eyes as a form of cheating, in their eyes the DJ is not really mixing creatively but rather using technology to do the work. I researched the topic on YouTube and the prevailing attitude is that technology marches on with 99% of the DJs resoundingly supporting the sync button. Most reported that it allows them time to do quick mixes and worry less about keeping tracks on beat… Even veteran DJs who said they started on vinyl welcomed the sync button.
12 uninterrupted years of playing vinyl in Los Angeles clubs helped me refine my technique and recognition of DJ mixing as a fine art. But what does that mean? What’s the difference between the Art of the Mix and just blending or segueing? By blending or segueing I mean mixing two records on beat without any creative intention… Where the Art of the Mix comes into play is different. It essentially is designed in 3 phases… part 1, blending in the new song… part 2 is where the magic happens, where both songs are locked together creating an intoxicating high for the crowd and then, part 3 the mix out, leaving the dance floor energized. The art of the mix is a creative way of mixing 2 songs together, usually the songs are playing together for a minute or longer perfectly in sync.
Always a student of the Art, I still listen to many DJs and relish their unique technique seeking out the art of the mix if there is an art of the mix in their style. I’ve heard some of the best of the best in the greatest clubs in New York, Miami, Los Angeles, and Puerto Rico… I once heard Carl Cox in France. I am a student of the game.
For many years now it seems like the quick mix has risen to be the most popular mixing style, the rather expansive creative control buttons and special effects added to the CDJ’s (Compact Disc players designed for DJ’s) and the DJ Controller, gives DJ’s access to a “live” mixing studio… There are many DJs that excel at twisting and contorting songs with special effects that when done right can be quite entertaining and super creative (DJ James Hype), especially for Hip-Hop DJ’s. Since my concentrated background was in Discotheques, spinning disco, funk, freestyle, and new wave, all on vinyl, my style still trends towards creating a club vibe.
A club vibe designed to keep the dancers rotating on and off the dance floor which is what the owners of the club wanted! What does all this mean? Get to the point!!
Well, was wondering aloud whether the Art of the Mix is a fading art, has it lost its place? Are long over lay mixes boring? Done wrong they sound awful.
My intent here is not to judge or offend,
if you’re a DJ and this is not your thing, cool. But if you believe that you are an Art of the Mix type of guy, I would love to hear from you believe me. I hear lots of segues, lots of blends…fast cuts and quick mixes…lots of effects and DJ Wizardry….but not much of what I discovered as designed mixes which were very prevalent during the 70’s and 80s… Would love to hear from you drop me a line or a mix!
