NADJ is a not-for-profit Community Interest Company (CIC) working for the benefit of its members and the wider DJ industry.
DJ software has transformed the entertainment industry. Whether you are a wedding DJ, mobile DJ, club performer, karaoke host, radio presenter or festival artist, your choice of software can have a huge impact on your workflow, reliability and performance. Gone are the days when DJs had to carry hundreds of CDs or crates of vinyl. Modern DJ software allows performers to organise huge music libraries, mix tracks seamlessly, integrate streaming services and even separate vocals and instrumentals in real time using artificial intelligence.
Choosing the best DJ software can be difficult. Some platforms are designed for clubs, while others are aimed at mobile entertainers. Some excel at video mixing and karaoke, while others focus on scratching or standalone hardware. There is no single solution that works for everyone.
This guide examines ten of the biggest DJ software platforms available today, comparing their strengths, weaknesses and ideal users. Along the way, we’ll also debunk one of the biggest myths in the DJ industry: that PCDJ disappeared or somehow became VirtualDJ. The truth is rather different.
DJ software allows performers to mix digital music files using a computer or compatible hardware. Modern systems include features such as automatic BPM detection, key analysis, hot cues, loops, effects, playlist management, recording, live streaming and integration with DJ controllers.
Many software packages now support music streaming services, cloud storage and artificial intelligence tools that can isolate vocals, drums and instrumentals during live performances.
The software market has evolved rapidly over the past twenty years. Some platforms have disappeared, while others have grown into global standards. Today, DJs have more choice than ever before.
Before investing in a platform, consider several factors.
Mobile DJs may value flexibility above all else, while club DJs often prioritise compatibility with venue equipment.
Official website: https://www.virtualdj.com/
VirtualDJ is one of the oldest and most versatile DJ software platforms available. Originally released in 2003, it has evolved into an incredibly powerful performance tool used by hobbyists and professionals around the world.
Unlike many competitors, VirtualDJ supports an enormous range of controllers and hardware. Its developers have focused heavily on flexibility, making it particularly attractive to mobile DJs who may encounter different equipment at every event.
One of VirtualDJ’s biggest strengths is its support for multiple entertainment formats. DJs can perform audio mixing, video mixing and karaoke using the same software. Real-time stem separation allows users to isolate vocals, basslines, drums and melodies during live performances.
VirtualDJ is exceptionally flexible. Mobile DJs appreciate its search capabilities, reliability and support for virtually every controller on the market. Karaoke hosts and video DJs can also operate from a single platform.
Club DJs sometimes prefer rekordbox or Serato due to venue standards. Some traditionalists also dislike its highly customisable interface.
Wedding DJs, mobile DJs, party DJs, karaoke hosts, video DJs and multi-format entertainers.
Official website: https://serato.com/dj/pro
Serato DJ Pro has become one of the world’s most respected DJ platforms. Originally developed for digital vinyl systems, it quickly became the preferred choice for turntablists and scratch DJs before expanding into the broader DJ market.
Serato has built its reputation around stability. Professional DJs performing in clubs and festivals often trust the platform because of its consistent performance under pressure.
The introduction of Serato Stems has brought artificial intelligence to the platform, allowing DJs to create live mashups and remixes with minimal preparation.
Serato performs exceptionally well in demanding environments. The software is clean, intuitive and trusted by professionals worldwide.
Some advanced features require additional expansion packs. Hardware compatibility can also be more restrictive than VirtualDJ.
Club DJs, scratch DJs, open-format performers and professional event DJs.
Official website: https://rekordbox.com/
Developed by AlphaTheta, formerly Pioneer DJ, rekordbox has become the de facto preparation software for many clubs around the world. DJs can prepare playlists, analyse tracks and export music to USB drives for use with CDJs and standalone players.
Over the years, rekordbox has expanded into a full performance platform, allowing DJs to perform directly from a laptop while maintaining compatibility with club equipment.
Cloud synchronisation and streaming support have helped modernise the platform, making it attractive beyond the club environment.
If you regularly play clubs equipped with Pioneer DJ or AlphaTheta hardware, rekordbox offers perhaps the smoothest transition between home preparation and live performance.
Some subscription features have proved controversial. Mobile DJs may find other platforms offer greater flexibility.
Club DJs, festival DJs and performers using Pioneer DJ or AlphaTheta systems.
The first generation of digital DJ software focused simply on replacing CDs. Today’s platforms offer artificial intelligence, cloud storage, live streaming, video mixing and even automated event management.
Yet despite all these technological advances, the fundamentals remain the same. Good music selection, crowd reading and technical skill will always matter more than software alone.
In the next section, we’ll look at Traktor Pro, Engine DJ, djay Pro, Mixxx and perhaps the most misunderstood name in DJ software history: PCDJ.
Official website: https://www.native-instruments.com/
Traktor Pro was launched by Native Instruments in 2000 and quickly became one of the most innovative DJ software platforms available. At a time when many DJs were still relying on CDs and vinyl, Traktor was helping to shape the future of digital DJing.
Unlike some of its competitors, Traktor has always focused on creativity. Rather than simply replicating traditional DJ equipment, it introduced features such as Remix Decks, advanced looping, sample triggering and sophisticated effects chains.
The latest version, Traktor Pro 4, includes flexible beatgrids, improved stem separation and enhanced audio quality, ensuring the platform remains relevant in an increasingly competitive market.
Traktor is exceptionally powerful for creative DJs. Electronic music performers often appreciate the ability to manipulate tracks in ways that go beyond traditional mixing.
The learning curve can be steeper than other platforms. It also lacks the club standard status enjoyed by rekordbox and the broad controller compatibility of VirtualDJ.
Electronic music DJs, creative performers and DJs who enjoy custom workflows.
Official website: https://enginedj.com/
Engine DJ is the software ecosystem developed for Denon DJ and selected Numark products. Rather than simply being laptop software, Engine DJ combines desktop library management with standalone hardware operating systems.
This approach has become increasingly popular as DJs seek to reduce their reliance on laptops during performances. Music can be prepared at home before being transferred to standalone players and controllers.
Engine DJ has developed rapidly and now includes Wi-Fi connectivity, cloud storage integration and support for streaming services.
DJs can perform without a laptop whilst still benefiting from modern library management features.
The ecosystem is largely tied to compatible hardware, making it less flexible than some competitors.
Denon DJ users, standalone DJs and mobile entertainers seeking laptop-free performances.
Official website: https://www.algoriddim.com/
djay Pro by Algoriddim has developed from a simple consumer application into a sophisticated professional DJ platform. Available across macOS, Windows, iOS and iPadOS, it provides an accessible route into digital DJing.
The software includes Neural Mix technology, which uses artificial intelligence to separate vocals, drums and instrumentals in real time.
Its integration with Apple devices has made it particularly popular with DJs who prefer lightweight portable setups.
The interface is intuitive whilst still offering advanced functionality for experienced users.
Some professional DJs may prefer more specialised software ecosystems.
Beginners, mobile DJs, Apple users and lightweight professional setups.
Official website: https://mixxx.org/
Mixxx is unique because it is completely free and open source. Developed by a global community of contributors, it has matured into a capable DJ platform suitable for beginners and experienced users alike.
Unlike commercial software, Mixxx relies upon community development. Despite this, it supports a wide range of controllers and includes many professional features.
Excellent value for money because it costs nothing. It provides an accessible starting point for new DJs.
Commercial support is limited compared with paid software platforms.
Beginners, hobby DJs, Linux users and budget-conscious performers.
Official website: https://pcdj.com/
No discussion of DJ software would be complete without addressing one of the biggest myths in the DJ industry.
Many DJs believe PCDJ disappeared years ago. Others think it was bought by VirtualDJ or somehow merged into the Atomix software ecosystem. Neither story is true.
PCDJ remains an active independent company that continues to develop entertainment software for DJs, karaoke hosts, bars, restaurants and commercial venues.
The confusion probably stems from the early years of digital DJing. During the late 1990s and early 2000s, PCDJ was one of the biggest names in computer-based DJ systems. As newer competitors entered the market and social media discussions evolved, many people simply assumed PCDJ had vanished.
In reality, PCDJ expanded into specialist entertainment markets whilst continuing to develop professional DJ products.
PCDJ focuses heavily on real-world entertainment businesses rather than purely club environments.
Many newer DJs simply are not aware that the platform still exists because it receives less social media attention than some competitors.
Mobile DJs, karaoke hosts, bars, restaurants and commercial entertainment venues.
It is worth putting the rumour to bed once and for all.
PCDJ did not become VirtualDJ.
PCDJ was not absorbed into VirtualDJ.
PCDJ did not disappear.
VirtualDJ is developed by Atomix Productions. PCDJ remains its own separate business with its own software products and development roadmap.
The myth has persisted for years, often repeated by DJs who left the digital DJ scene during the early 2000s and never revisited the market.
The truth demonstrates how quickly technology changes. Assumptions made years ago can easily become accepted as fact, even when they are incorrect.
In the next section we’ll examine PCDJ DEX 3, DJUCED and several other notable DJ software platforms before comparing which software is best for different types of DJ.
Official website: https://pcdj.com/dj-software/dex-3-re/
Whilst PCDJ itself is often associated with karaoke and commercial entertainment systems, DEX 3 is its flagship professional DJ software package. Originally developed as DEX and later refined into DEX 3 RE (Red Edition), it combines traditional DJ mixing with video and karaoke functionality.
Unlike many competing platforms that focus on one particular market, DEX 3 aims to provide an all-in-one entertainment solution. A DJ can perform a wedding disco, switch to music videos, host karaoke and continue the evening without changing software.
This flexibility makes DEX 3 particularly attractive for UK mobile DJs who perform a wide variety of events.
Few competitors offer such a comprehensive entertainment package in a single application.
DJs focused purely on club performance may not require its additional entertainment features.
Wedding DJs, mobile DJs, karaoke hosts and multi-format entertainers.
Official website: https://www.djuced.com/
DJUCED was developed alongside Hercules DJ hardware and is aimed primarily at helping new DJs develop their skills. Rather than simply providing mixing tools, the software includes educational features designed to teach beatmatching and transitions.
Recent updates have added stem separation, improved effects and enhanced controller integration.
Many DJs start their careers with DJUCED before moving onto other platforms, although it is perfectly capable of handling smaller professional events.
Excellent introduction to digital DJing with a relatively gentle learning curve.
Less common in professional club and mobile environments.
Beginners, students and Hercules controller users.
Official website: https://www.mixmeister.com/
Mixmeister occupies an unusual position in the DJ software market. Rather than focusing entirely on live performance, it specialises in creating polished pre-recorded DJ mixes.
Radio stations, fitness instructors and event organisers have often used Mixmeister to create seamless background music programmes and promotional mixes.
Although it does not compete directly with platforms like VirtualDJ or Serato for live performances, it remains relevant for content creation and production work.
Creating recorded mixes, fitness classes, radio programmes and background music production.
Official website: https://www.megaseg.fm/
MegaSeg is another specialist platform that deserves recognition. Originally developed for professional broadcasters and entertainment venues, it has become popular in theme parks, hotels, radio stations and commercial environments.
Whilst not commonly found in wedding DJ setups, its reliability and automation capabilities have earned a loyal following.
Commercial venues, broadcasters and automated entertainment systems.
One of the biggest developments in recent years has been the growth of music streaming integration.
Many software platforms now support one or more streaming providers, allowing DJs to access millions of tracks without downloading individual files.
Popular integrations include:
However, professional DJs should exercise caution. Internet connections can fail, licences can change and tracks can disappear from streaming catalogues without warning.
Many experienced UK mobile DJs still prefer to own local copies of their core music collections.
Artificial intelligence has become one of the most significant developments in DJ software.
Modern stem technology allows DJs to separate:
This can happen in real time during a performance.
VirtualDJ was an early pioneer in this area, although Serato, Traktor, djay Pro and other platforms have rapidly developed similar capabilities.
AI is also helping DJs with playlist generation, library organisation and track recommendations, although many professionals still believe crowd reading remains a human skill.
Not every software package supports every controller.
VirtualDJ arguably offers the broadest compatibility.
Serato works with officially approved hardware.
rekordbox naturally integrates with AlphaTheta and Pioneer DJ equipment.
Engine DJ is built around Denon DJ and Numark standalone systems.
DJUCED focuses heavily on Hercules products.
PCDJ DEX 3 supports many popular MIDI controllers used by mobile entertainers.
Before purchasing software, DJs should always confirm hardware compatibility.
DJ software pricing varies considerably.
| Software | Free Option | Professional Licence |
|---|---|---|
| VirtualDJ | Yes | Yes |
| Serato DJ Pro | Lite version | Yes |
| rekordbox | Limited version | Subscription options |
| Traktor Pro | No | One-off purchase |
| Engine DJ | Yes | Hardware ecosystem |
| djay Pro | Trial options | Subscription |
| Mixxx | Completely free | N/A |
| PCDJ | Trial versions | Commercial licences |
| DEX 3 | Trial available | One-off purchase |
| DJUCED | Often bundled | Optional upgrades |
There is no universal answer.
Club DJs often use rekordbox because of venue equipment.
Scratch DJs frequently choose Serato.
Electronic music performers often favour Traktor.
Wedding DJs and mobile entertainers commonly use VirtualDJ because of its flexibility.
Karaoke operators often prefer PCDJ and DEX 3.
Standalone performers increasingly use Engine DJ.
The software market has become highly specialised, meaning the best choice depends on the work you undertake rather than simply choosing the most popular platform.
In the final part of this guide, we’ll compare all ten platforms directly, recommend software for different types of DJs, examine future trends and answer some of the most frequently asked questions about DJ software.
After looking at each platform individually, it is worth comparing them side by side. Whilst every DJ has personal preferences, certain software packages have developed strong reputations within particular sectors of the entertainment industry.
| Software | Mobile | Club | Karaoke | Video | Beginner | Standalone |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VirtualDJ | Excellent | Very Good | Excellent | Excellent | Good | No |
| Serato DJ Pro | Very Good | Excellent | No | Limited | Good | No |
| rekordbox | Good | Excellent | No | Limited | Good | Excellent |
| Traktor Pro | Good | Very Good | No | No | Average | No |
| Engine DJ | Very Good | Very Good | No | No | Good | Excellent |
| djay Pro | Good | Good | No | Limited | Excellent | No |
| Mixxx | Good | Good | No | No | Excellent | No |
| PCDJ | Excellent | Average | Excellent | Good | Good | No |
| DEX 3 | Excellent | Average | Excellent | Excellent | Good | No |
| DJUCED | Good | Average | No | No | Excellent | No |
Wedding DJs often require flexibility above all else. A typical wedding may involve background music, microphones for speeches, evening dancing, guest requests and sometimes even karaoke or video playback.
VirtualDJ is an obvious choice because of its versatility. PCDJ and DEX 3 also deserve serious consideration because of their entertainment-focused features.
Recommended: VirtualDJ, PCDJ DEX 3, PCDJ and Serato DJ Pro.
Mobile DJs need reliable software that can adapt to different venues and hardware setups.
VirtualDJ remains extremely popular in this sector due to its extensive controller support and entertainment features.
Recommended: VirtualDJ, PCDJ, DEX 3 and Engine DJ.
Club DJs often encounter installed Pioneer DJ equipment.
rekordbox naturally fits this environment, whilst Serato remains highly respected.
Recommended: rekordbox, Serato DJ Pro and Traktor Pro.
Turntablists require low latency and excellent DVS support.
Recommended: Serato DJ Pro.
Creative mixing and remixing tools become increasingly important.
Recommended: Traktor Pro and Engine DJ.
Karaoke remains a profitable market for many entertainers throughout the UK.
Recommended: PCDJ, DEX 3 and VirtualDJ.
Video mixing has become increasingly common at weddings, themed nights and specialist events.
Recommended: VirtualDJ and DEX 3.
Learning to DJ can be expensive. Fortunately, several excellent entry-level platforms exist.
Recommended: Mixxx, DJUCED and djay Pro.
Absolutely.
Whilst some traditionalists continue to perform exclusively with vinyl, most professional DJs use digital software in one form or another.
Many festival headliners use rekordbox to prepare USB drives.
Club DJs commonly perform using Serato or rekordbox.
Wedding DJs often use VirtualDJ.
Mobile entertainers frequently rely on VirtualDJ, PCDJ or DEX 3.
Professional use of DJ software is now the norm rather than the exception.
DJ software continues to evolve rapidly.
Several trends are shaping the future of digital performance.
However, technology should be viewed as a tool rather than a replacement for experience.
The best DJs still rely upon music knowledge, crowd reading and technical skill.
There is no universal answer. VirtualDJ offers exceptional flexibility, Serato excels for scratching, rekordbox dominates many clubs and PCDJ remains highly relevant for entertainment professionals.
Some platforms offer free versions or trials. Mixxx is completely free and open source.
Yes. Most modern DJ software platforms support laptop performance.
Yes. Most professional DJs maintain local music libraries to avoid reliance on internet connections.
Many UK wedding DJs use VirtualDJ, Serato, PCDJ and DEX 3 because of their flexibility.
No.
This remains one of the most persistent myths within the DJ industry.
PCDJ and VirtualDJ are completely separate software platforms developed by different companies.
PCDJ continues to actively develop products for DJs, karaoke hosts and entertainment venues.
The world of DJ software has never offered more choice.
Whether you perform at weddings, birthdays, festivals, clubs, bars, corporate functions or karaoke nights, there is likely to be a platform designed to suit your needs.
VirtualDJ remains one of the most versatile solutions available. Serato continues to dominate scratching and open-format performance. rekordbox has become deeply embedded within club culture. Traktor appeals to creative electronic artists, whilst Engine DJ is helping to drive the growth of standalone performance systems.
djay Pro, Mixxx and DJUCED provide excellent routes into digital DJing, whilst PCDJ and DEX 3 continue to prove that specialist entertainment software still has an important place within the industry.
Perhaps the biggest lesson is that reputation and rumours do not always reflect reality. The long-standing belief that PCDJ disappeared or somehow became VirtualDJ simply is not true. The platform remains active and continues to serve thousands of professional users around the world.
Ultimately, the best DJ software is the one that complements your style of performance, supports your hardware, suits your budget and allows you to focus on what really matters: entertaining your audience and creating memorable experiences through music.
Last updated: 2026. Software features, licensing models and hardware compatibility may change over time, so always check the official websites for the latest information before making a purchasing decision.
The story of DJ software is one of the most significant technological developments in the history of entertainment. In little more than thirty years, DJs have moved from carrying hundreds of vinyl records and wallets full of CDs to performing from laptops, USB drives and standalone media players containing tens of thousands of songs.
Although many younger DJs have grown up with digital technology, the transition was far from straightforward. Early software was often unstable, computer hardware was expensive and many professional DJs were sceptical about whether digital systems could ever replace traditional formats.
Today, DJ software is an accepted part of the industry. Understanding its history helps explain why different platforms have developed such loyal followings.
For much of the twentieth century, vinyl records were the professional standard. DJs relied on turntables, mixers and carefully organised record collections. Skill was measured by beatmatching, cueing and track selection.
Carrying music was physically demanding. A mobile DJ could easily transport several hundred records to an event, whilst club DJs often built carefully selected crates for individual performances.
The arrival of the compact disc during the 1980s and 1990s changed the industry once again.
CD players allowed DJs to carry larger music collections whilst reducing equipment weight. Pioneer became a major player in this market, producing CDJ players that emulated many aspects of vinyl performance.
Mobile DJs embraced CDs because they were durable and affordable. Specialist CD wallets became standard equipment for many entertainers.
However, even large CD collections had limitations. Finding tracks quickly could be difficult and transporting hundreds of discs remained cumbersome.
As personal computers became more powerful during the late 1990s, software developers began exploring digital alternatives.
One of the pioneers was PCDJ.
Launched in 1998, PCDJ was among the very first commercially successful DJ software packages. At a time when many DJs were still carrying CDs, PCDJ allowed performers to mix MP3 files directly from a computer.
This was revolutionary.
For the first time, DJs could carry thousands of songs on a hard drive rather than hundreds of physical discs.
PCDJ rapidly developed a loyal following among mobile DJs and entertainment professionals.
Another important milestone arrived with AtomixMP3.
Developed by Atomix Productions, the software introduced an accessible approach to digital DJing. It included automatic beatmatching and visual waveform displays that helped attract new users.
AtomixMP3 eventually evolved into VirtualDJ.
VirtualDJ expanded significantly over the following decades, adding controller support, video mixing, karaoke, streaming integration and artificial intelligence tools.
Today it remains one of the world’s most widely used DJ software platforms.
Native Instruments launched Traktor in 2000.
Rather than simply replicating traditional DJ equipment, Traktor introduced innovative creative tools that appealed to electronic music performers.
Advanced effects, looping and later Remix Decks helped establish Traktor as a favourite among creative DJs and producers.
Many electronic artists continue to use Traktor because of its flexibility and performance capabilities.
Many professional DJs wanted to retain the feel of vinyl whilst benefiting from digital music libraries.
This led to the development of Digital Vinyl Systems, commonly known as DVS.
Timecoded vinyl records allowed turntables to control digital music files.
Final Scratch was one of the earliest systems to gain widespread attention.
The concept demonstrated that digital technology could complement traditional DJ skills rather than replace them.
In 2004, Serato Scratch Live changed the market.
The combination of reliable software and intuitive hardware integration quickly won over many professional DJs.
Turntablists, hip hop performers and club DJs appreciated the stability and responsiveness of the system.
Serato’s reputation for reliability remains one of its greatest strengths today.
As DJ software matured, manufacturers began producing dedicated controllers.
Rather than using separate turntables or CD players, DJs could control software directly through specially designed hardware.
This reduced equipment costs and simplified event setups.
Controllers became particularly popular with mobile DJs and beginners entering the industry.
Manufacturers including Pioneer DJ, Denon DJ, Numark, Hercules and many others developed extensive product ranges.
Pioneer developed rekordbox to simplify music preparation for CDJs.
DJs could analyse tracks, create playlists and export music to USB drives.
This streamlined workflow quickly became popular in clubs around the world.
rekordbox later evolved into a complete performance platform, competing directly with established DJ software packages.
Music streaming transformed consumer listening habits, and DJ software developers soon began integrating streaming services.
Platforms such as TIDAL, Beatport Streaming and Beatsource allowed DJs to access enormous music catalogues.
Whilst convenient, many professionals still maintain local music libraries for reliability and long-term security.
The latest chapter in DJ software history involves artificial intelligence.
Modern platforms can separate vocals, drums, bass and instrumentals in real time.
This technology enables live mashups and creative remixing with minimal preparation.
Artificial intelligence is also beginning to assist with library organisation and playlist suggestions.
Despite these advances, most experienced DJs agree that technology cannot replace reading a crowd and selecting the right song at the right moment.
The history of DJ software has also produced numerous misconceptions.
Perhaps the biggest concerns PCDJ.
Because the company shifted towards specialist entertainment and karaoke markets whilst newer competitors gained publicity, many DJs assumed PCDJ had disappeared.
Some even believe it became VirtualDJ.
This is incorrect.
PCDJ and VirtualDJ have always been separate companies with separate development teams and separate software products.
PCDJ continues to produce software for DJs, karaoke hosts, bars, restaurants and entertainment venues.
The future of DJ software will almost certainly include further developments in artificial intelligence, cloud storage, wireless hardware and standalone systems.
However, the basic purpose remains unchanged.
Good DJ software should help performers organise music, deliver reliable performances and entertain audiences more effectively.
From PCDJ’s pioneering MP3 software in 1998 to today’s AI-powered performance platforms, DJ software has continually evolved to meet the changing needs of entertainers around the world.
The technology will continue to change, but the role of the DJ remains remarkably consistent: selecting the right music for the right audience at the right time.
UK DJ Equipment Retailers: Why DJs Should Support Specialist Shops
Best DJ CRM Software in 2026: The Complete Guide for Professional DJs
Avtar ThethyWHAT WILL I DO?
I have a ‘Goldmine’ of ideas, that, if elected, I will endeavour to implement and achieve top results.
EQUALITY
Equal partnerships with manufacturer’s and service providers within the DJ sector.
Strengthen existing relationships and look for new participants to drive us all forward.
Create more fund raising opportunities for NADJ.
Social Events
The 1st Internal NADJ DJ Awards evening.
We all are from the same entity, so I believe that we as a membership, we deserve equal recognition as other Associations, past present and future.
ACCOUNTABILITY
To promote the visibility of NADJ, at exhibitions and shows, both Nationally and Regionally.
Reintroduce the NADJ clothing range, with additional items.
To make myself as the National Chairman more accessible to existing Members in all classes of membership, and new ones – introducing new opportunities for the membership as a whole to perform at top level events and functions.
Allowing the membership to “air” their views as we go on, and make a positive but constructive contribution on matters that effect YOU the member.
Have standardised forms available for the whole network to use and adapt, with all Health and Safety documentation required by venues in a Welcome pack.
STRENGTH
To be a strong chairman who truly represents the membership interests at high level meetings and events.
To maintain, strengthen and underpin the membership voice by improving the NADJ’s representative role in the open marketplace.
Empower all members and NADJ Reps to become co – creators of Change (Regional Led Projects)
INNOVATION
Improve NADJ facilities to allow Members to deliver a more professional service in their own respective businesses, in an ever growing industry.
The development of a more social and approachable network of DJ’s across the UK.
Introduce a ‘one stop shop’ making it easer for the member and client to obtain everything under one roof.
WHO AM I ?
My name is Avtar Thethy, 55 years old, married and a father to two boys.
Based in West London for last 52 years.
Running my own business LED Factory for last 9+ years.
An active and helpful member of NADJ London and I’m also the London Chairman.
I am determined, committed and will always endeavour to get the best results possible for YOU, the Member.
WHY ME?
Existing NADJ Member, Chairman for London.
I’ve been blessed with many opportunities week in week out to attend the TOP Events up, down and across the UK – as a supplier, organiser, judge and simply as a guest.
I enjoy the creative benefits of product and service integration with the following well established AV companies daily:
Kudos Av & Kudos Music
Calibar Events
Ritzy Music
UVD Ultimate Visual Display
AVH
(There are many more.)
We are consistently facilitating well over 100 events pa. All of them different,
So you can see that not do I only talk the talk, but I am constantly and walking the walk.
I feel the Association needs CHANGE and Change for the better, It needs to recognise the huge talent that it has within and needs to promote that from within.
It also cannot have its members to have disproportionate inequality in the outside world.
I certainly have the Passion, Commitment and fully understand the hardships in running a business without help.
In talking to a few fellow members, over the last few years, I understand what is missing and what Needs need to be addressed – If you can see these gaps, then,
I am the man to deliver.
Avtar Thethy
Led Factory / NADJ
Fabio CapozziChange is good but change for change sake can be a sign of not understanding the true needs of what must be done. I believe the secret of change is to focus all your energy, not on fighting the old, but on building the new. The Association is long overdue revision and reform that better suits the members.
A new approach to reviving the many reasons why membership is the right choice for hard-working DJs is a better understanding of today’s DJ. By helping members maintain a better work-life balance with money saving benefits or having access to advice from experienced fellow members or sharing work opportunities, it is all for naught unless there is a fundamental mutual respect towards everyone, no matter their view or standing.
Community is important to the success of NADJ and it is the huge support of the membership that we can all pride ourselves on. It is, however, inevitable that a collective of people will disagree from time to time, albeit having a common goal. It is essential that open and fair discussion is encouraged to allow opinion and debate to enhance the values that NADJ stand by. I believe that by creating a culture of positive ideas backed by action this forum can encourage us to move forwards in boosting the public opinion of UK DJs. By way of a campaign, aimed directly at the consumer, NADJ in collaboration with other associations and DJ groups, can represent the benefits of choosing a DJ that is encouraged to apply best practices towards their clients with a view to enhance their business. This path can be applied to all types of DJ, from bedroom to festival and radio and by being more inclusive and properly acknowledging these equally important types of DJ into our community, we can be enriched with their viewpoint and expertise of the industry we all work in.
Our industry is one of supplying a serious amount of dedication and excellent customer experience wrapped in an evening of fun, music and dancing. When you are passionate about your work and strive to be professional, it is a welcome relief to be able to meet, network and collaborate with industry colleagues whilst having a little fun. The branch sessions, events and gatherings that happen across the UK require dedicated committee officers to make these happen regionally and nationally. Without the hard work, that is volunteered, the branch sessions would not be possible – and I thank all of you for your unflagging efforts to run great branches. I agree with opinion that NADJ life has become overly serious and in some cases stale, adopting a tired constitution, no longer in keeping with current member needs and aspirations undermined by language that is outdated. I see the need for reform of the constitution, more inclusive language and attitude, updated to reflect the industry we work in today and instrumental in helping the membership to grow and develop by attracting younger DJs to understand how the NADJ can offer a sound platform to boost their DJ career.
All this I believe is important to make being a member an enjoyable and enriching experience but the serious business of running an association is not all about fun (not for NEC committee members anyway), it is a task that relies on consistency, diplomacy and the ability to make new relationships whilst maintain the ones we have happy. Without the support of members and the industry, no matter how much fun and energy you would like at a branch session, it will be difficult to achieve without the help of great content organised on time and with consideration – this is not a job where you can ‘wing it’… I have never winged anything. I look forward to your vote.
Alastair CraigMy name is Alastair Craig and I am a full time DJ with over 30 years’ experience of providing services to many events, including Weddings, Birthdays and Corporates.
Apart from DJ’ing I am also involved in the IT industry and have been advisory on protecting Children’s Data and more recently been involved in testing software for a leading DJ company.
Outside of work I am is a keen Scuba Diver and currently serve as the Diving Officer for Reading University in which I also act as a mentor and Assistant Instructor.
I am running for Secretary for NADJ as I feel that I can bring some new ideas as well as my organisational skills to the table, not just from my experience within my DJ work but from my other involvement in IT to which assessment, planning through to delivery was key to my role.
At this time, I feel NADJ is ready for change and I am certainly open to listening to new ideas from the membership to move the association in a new fresh direction.
Let’s leave the politics behind and concentrate on building new relationships from within as well as looking after the ones that have already been established.
Yes, it will be a challenge for the new committee but no doubt, as D-ream sang “Things Can Only Get Better” 
Dave MillsFirstly, thank you to those who felt I was worthy to be nominated for a position on the National Committee. I’m not sure I should be grateful, but I am very honoured by your faith in me.
Some of you may know me as the fun, gig addicted, rock music loving Chairman of the South Central Branch but if you don’t and haven’t seen my recent profile piece in Pro Mobile issue 95 (yes shameless self-promotion) then let me briefly introduce myself.
I’m Dave Mills; I had been a struggling DJ for many years working for an agency in Berkshire until I was invited to a NADJ meeting. The people I met within NADJ inspired and helped me to leave the agency and successfully branch out on my own. I’ve made some great friends and learned A LOT. By joining the committee and then becoming the south central chairman I have found myself in a position to encourage and support other aspiring DJ’s to do the same as myself. The range and wealth of knowledge, experience and professionalism within NADJ still floors me making me feel in awe but very proud to be a part of it all.
I am open minded to new ideas and using feedback from our members and non-members, working together as a team so everyone has a voice and every member gets something extra from being in NADJ (not just a P.L.I.) and feels part of our mad music addicted community.
*I hope I haven’t bored you to death yet, nearly there*
I would like to think that my 6 years on an NADJ committee have given me the experience required to move up to the challenge of becoming National Secretary. I am under no illusion that there is a difference between running a branch and taking on a role at national level and it’s not always going to be easy (but I hope not to the point of sitting on a chair sticking pencils up my nose, with pants on my head and saying ‘wibble’) but for some insane reason I’m looking forward to taking on the challenge.
If you are kind enough to vote me in, my main aims would be to help make the association more open and inclusive, encouraging and supporting the current membership as well aspiring DJ’s of any age and gender to join us in our mission to make the DJ industry truly recognised as a profession in a positive, encouraging way.