The life of a touring DJ is often romanticized as a journey of passion and dedication, where the pursuit of art and the power of music unite to create a shared experience for all involved. But while this image is certainly compelling, it is important to acknowledge the reality of the toll that touring can take on both the body and mind.
Photo by Omar Prestwich
Touring as a DJ demands a level of commitment and perseverance that is not easily sustained. The constant cycle of airports, hotels, and clubs can be physically and emotionally exhausting, leaving even the most talented and experienced DJs vulnerable to the pressures of the lifestyle.
As a long-time admirer of Danny Howells, I reached out to get his opinion. He mentioned: “Relentless touring can have a negative impact. I was never completely comfortable with being away from home all the time, and feel so much better, physically and mentally, now that I tour less frequently. On the other hand, It’s a dilemma though because I feel that to truly hit your peak in terms of what you deliver in the clubs then you really need to be playing very regularly. The pressure to deliver and to try and make each set better than the last can be truly overwhelming, and this is something I find to be the case when playing after having had time off.”
Despite this, the dedication of a true artist is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Night after night, they push themselves to the limit, striving for the perfect performance and the creation of a shared experience that resonates with their audience. In doing so, they embody the strength of the human spirit and its ability to persevere in the face of adversity.
But even the most resilient DJs are not immune to the occasional off night. The weight of expectations and the constant demand for perfection can be daunting, leaving many feeling overwhelmed and defeated. It is important to remember, however, that these moments of struggle are not failures, but rather reminders of the very human condition that underpins all artistic pursuits.
“I think there has often been this idea that taking time away from touring is a bad thing, or that people may suddenly be forgotten – I think the competitive nature amongst DJs should be healthy but not to the extent where you drive yourself to exhaustion. Take a step away and when you come back you will enjoy it so much more.” Howells also added.
Furthermore, the responsibility that DJs hold to their fans and the community as a whole cannot be underestimated. As curators of a shared experience, they create an atmosphere that resonates with the crowd and reflects the passion and dedication of those who attend their shows. This responsibility is a profound one, and it demands that DJs take their craft seriously and strive to create experiences that are both authentic and memorable.
At the same time, it is important to remember that some partygoers are not merely customers, but fellow music lovers who share a deep appreciation for the art form. DJs should respect and appreciate the dedication and support of their community, recognizing the financial burden that many attendees carry in order to experience their music, but that is another topic that we will touch on in the coming weeks.
As a final thought, touring as a DJ can be a journey of sacrifice and struggle, but also of immense growth and reward. By prioritizing self-care, financial stability, and a balanced approach to entertaining the crowd, DJs can create a fulfilling and sustainable career that brings joy to themselves and their fans alike. Through their craft, they unite us in a shared experience that transcends borders and cultures, reminding us of the power of music to inspire, uplift, and connect us as humans.
