Are you considering a career as a DJ? While many perceive it as an easy, high-paying job, the reality is that it requires training, practice, creativity, and a deep passion for music to truly excel. Let's take a look at the journey of Rob Wegner, a well-recognized figure in the music industry, to understand what it takes.
From an early age, Wegner was drawn to music. His journey began with drumming lessons in the 5th grade. This passion for drumming opened up opportunities to join local rock bands. He even had the privilege of learning from jazz-rock legends like Carmine Appice and Billy Cobham. By 18, his interest shifted towards DJing, and he started learning the ropes at a popular nightclub on the east coast.
His transition began while he was drumming over the club's resident DJ's music. Spending four nights a week drumming for five hours each night allowed Wegner to develop a strong internal metronome. This ability to maintain a steady beat turned out to be an invaluable asset in his career as a DJ, where beat and blend mixing are essential.
Later, Wegner moved to Arizona and landed DJ residencies at some of the Phoenix metro area's leading nightclubs, including Zazoo, Barcelona, Axis-Radius, and Club 411. His story illustrates how a genuine love for music, coupled with dedicated practice and creativity, can shape a successful DJing career.
Revolutionizing the industry
Rob Wegner believes that one of the greatest perks of being a DJ is the autonomy it affords. However, he also acknowledges that becoming a DJ today can be challenging. With the ease of access to music and platforms, almost anyone can label themselves a DJ just by selecting songs to play.
But becoming a successful DJ requires more than that. According to Rob, imagination and proficiency are integral to his success in the industry. Recognizing a lack of formal education for aspiring DJs, he initiated the Disc Jockey 101 course at Scottsdale Community College. This provides a fantastic platform for those who wish to delve into DJing, offering them the chance to learn from experienced professionals.
By studying DJing, beginners can broaden their creative horizons and hone their technical skills. They also benefit from the guidance of seasoned instructors who can help them avoid common pitfalls and better understand the nuances between different music genres, like breakbeat, hip hop, trance, techno, D-n-B house, and more.
In 2014, Wegner had to stop teaching due to a multiple sclerosis diagnosis. But his passion for music remains undiminished. He now devotes his time to creating original, DJ-centric eclectic tracks. If you're interested in pursuing a DJ career, the DJ Program at Mesa Community College, formerly taught by Wegner at Scottsdale Community College, is still available. It could be your first step towards becoming a confident and skilled DJ.
About The Author:
Rob Wegner, a DJ & Music Producer official website, is also known as Rob Wegner DJ or DJ Rob Wegner. He is an American open-format DJ and music producer known for establishing the world’s first college-accredited DJ degree at Scottsdale Community College (SCC). He was born in Chicago and learned to DJ at age 18 by drumming over a DJ at a popular east coast nightclub. He has a Master of Arts degree in political science. Rob was selected as one of the world’s 36th most influential Club DJs in 2002 by DJ Reporter Magazine.
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