Off The Record - The DJ Podcast by Crossfader

Being a great DJ isn't enough anymore.
The DJ industry has changed.
In 2026, simply being able to mix two tracks together isn't what gets you booked, builds a fanbase, or creates a long-term career. The DJs making the biggest impact today understand that success goes far beyond technical ability.
This is the full recording of a live talk from our Crossfader DJ to Producer Summit at Fabric London, where we explore what it really takes to build a career as a DJ in today's industry.
In this session, we discuss:
What separates successful DJs from everyone else
Why DJing alone isn't enough in 2026
How to build a brand that stands out
The skills every modern DJ should be developing
How to create opportunities instead of waiting for them
Whether you're a beginner DJ, an aspiring touring artist, or already playing gigs, this conversation will change the way you think about building a career in electronic music.
If you're serious about growing as a DJ, this is one talk you don't want to miss.
Let us know in the comments: What's the biggest challenge you're facing in your DJ journey right now?

Are DJs being replaced? And is your DJ career actually at risk?In this Off The Record Podcast, filmed at IMS Ibiza, we break down how the DJ industry is evolving, and the 5 common DJ mistakes that are holding most DJs back.With more competition, new tech, and changing standards, standing out as a DJ has never been harder. This episode gives real insight into what separates DJs who stay stuck vs those who actually grow.If you’re serious about improving your DJ skills and building a long-term career in DJing, this is a must watch.

Meet James Hype at Magazine London - August 14th https://8ea26lmng75.typeform.com/to/QkdO83SS

What does it really take to go from a bedroom DJ to headlining stages around the world?

We sit down with James Hype to break down the full journey- from early struggles and self-doubt to viral moments, chart-topping tracks, and global touring.

James shares the mindset, discipline, and decisions that shaped his career, and why he believes anyone can make it with the right approach.

If you’ve ever wondered what separates average DJs from the elite… this is it.

In this episode of 'Off The Record' Podcast, we dive deep into the art of business networking with Olivia Mancuso, offering practical networking tips for anyone looking to expand their professional circle. We discuss the importance of relationship building and how to effectively navigate gatekeeping in various industries. This discussion is crucial for personal growth and career development. Let us know in the comments, what’s been your biggest challenge with networking? Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro02:35 - Jealously in the industry 06:51 - Is short form content the issue? 08:41 - Sippy on Olivias podcast11:50 - Different content serves different audiences13:40 - Going viral17:10 - Entitlement of music fans19:51 - Tips to request music21:31 - Reviewing Student Social Media pages26:49 - Pinned posts and their purpose28:00 - Who are you making content for? 30:36 - Strategy to networking 35:54 - Miami music week 37:43 - What we have coming up39:40 - Surround yourself with the right people 42:13 - Outro

In this episode of 'Off The Record' Podcast, we get real with Olivia Mancuso about what it actually takes to grow as a DJ today on social media.Why are some DJs building momentum online while others stay stuck? Is it the industry… or the mindset?
We break down how to build an audience on social media, create content that actually connects, turn engagement into opportunity, and adapt to the modern DJ landscape without burning out.If you’re serious about growing your DJ brand and taking control of your career, this episode is for you.
Let us know in the comments, what’s been your biggest challenge with building your audience?
Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
01:17 What you been up to?
07:01 DJs need to stop complaining
08:28 Start over
11:09 What path does a DJ take?
16:33 How to build an audience?
29:30 Comparing yourself
32:13 diversification in the scene
34:19 Networking
43:51 How to level up your content
48:00 Outro