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Brian B takes us back to his origin story as a teenage karaoke host with frosted tips in late-90s California, revealing how this unlikely start built the foundation for his DJ empire. With disarming honesty, he explains the perfect karaoke host paradox: "You can't suck, but you can't be so good that people are intimidated." This delicate balance created the stage presence and crowd reading skills that would later positively impact his career.

The conversation shifts to practical business strategies as Brian and Joe break down the economics of weeknight entertainment. They calculate how a DJ willing to hustle can build a six-figure income by combining weeknight trivia or karaoke gigs ($200 for 3 hours) with weekend weddings. It's a masterclass in entrepreneurship disguised as casual conversation, offering real pathways to financial stability in the entertainment industry.

When a listener asks about tackling marathon four-hour dance sets, Brian B reveals his secret weapon: carefully crafted "mini-sets" or "routines" that can be mixed and matched throughout the night. This approach prevents the common DJ mistake of frontloading all the best material and ensures consistent energy from start to finish. The hosts then share their holy grail of timeless ballads that work across all generations, from Righteous Brothers classics to slowed-down EDM tracks that create unexpected perfect moments.

Gear Corner brings practical solutions to common DJ problems, with a reviews of a pair of Bose noise-canceling earbuds and an unexpected find: a portable electric nail trimmer perfect for DJs concerned about hand photos. It's these blend of big picture career advice and practical everyday solutions that makes Beyond the DJ Booth essential listening for any entertainment professional looking to elevate their game.

Want their curated playlist of perfect multi-generational ballads? Comment "timeless" on Joe's Instagram reel and discover the songs that connect 20-somethings and 80-year-olds on the same dance floor.

RESOURCES & LINKS

Our website. Please leave a review! - https://www.beyondthedjbooth.com/
To book Joe Bunn: https://bunndjcompany.com/
To book Brian B: https://djbrianbofficial.com/
Joe’s Gear Finds on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shop/djjoebunn
Brian’s Gear Finds on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shop/djbrianbofficial
DJ Event Planner free demo: https://www.djeventplanner.com/signup.php
Brian B's Coaching Options: Https://www.thdjscreativeedge.com

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Ever wondered what happens when the music suddenly cuts out during the most crowded moment on the dance floor? In this remarkably candid episode of Beyond the DJ Booth, Joe Bunn and Brian B pull back the curtain on the messy realities professional DJs face at high-end events.

The conversation dives deep into situations rarely discussed in public forums – from Joe's recent technical nightmare with custom-wired cables that caused power failures during peak dancing time, to strategies for gracefully managing unexpected challenges without clients ever sensing trouble. These war stories serve as masterclasses in maintaining composure when everything threatens to unravel.

Beyond technical challenges, Brian B shares fascinating glimpses into the luxury event world, including a post-wedding day celebration where guests received IV treatments in the hotel lobby to recover from the previous night's festivities, a school fundraiser where parents bid an astonishing $13,500 for front-row graduation seats and a Yeti cooler while Brian is programming Italian music for dinner. These anecdotes reveal the extraordinary expectations DJs must navigate in different markets.

The episode also has Brian providing context to a previous episode with practical advice on managing client hierarchies with proper documentation, his approacs to overtime policies based on price points, and a clever travel hack for working efficiently on planes. Plus, the hosts respond to a thoughtful listener question about managing events where introductions must happen away from the main DJ booth.

Whether you're an aspiring DJ, an established professional, or simply curious about what happens behind the scenes at premium events, this episode offers invaluable insights into the blend of technical skill, problem-solving ability, and unflappable professionalism required to succeed in event entertainment at the highest levels.

RESOURCES & LINKS

Our website. Please leave a review! - https://www.beyondthedjbooth.com/
To book Joe Bunn: https://bunndjcompany.com/
To book Brian B: https://djbrianbofficial.com/
Joe’s Gear Finds on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shop/djjoebunn
Brian’s Gear Finds on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shop/djbrianbofficial
DJ Event Planner free demo: https://www.djeventplanner.com/signup.php
Brian B's Coaching Options: Https://www.thdjscreativeedge.com

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Ready for event season? Top DJs Brian B and Joe Bunn share what they're most looking forward to as their calendars fill with diverse celebrations. Joe anticipates a beach wedding for the third sister in a family where he's already created unforgettable experiences for the other siblings. These repeat clients have become true fans, attending his events and engaging with his content—the dream scenario for any service professional.

Meanwhile, Brian prepares for an eclectic lineup: a Sangeet featuring traditional Dola drummers, a high-end private school auction in Florida, and a wedding with an unconventional EDM playlist. His reflection on challenging events has Joe making this statement: "When they go well and it's different, I walk away thinking these people made the best choice hiring me." This highlights how versatility and expertise separate elite DJs from the competition.

We explore an innovative travel solution when Brian shares how a photographer friend crowdsourced $40,000 to purchase a residence at the Venetian in Las Vegas. This creative approach allows industry professionals to stay on the Strip without paying premium hotel rates while building valuable vendor relationships. Could this be the next big trend for private event DJs?

The Gear Corner features a practical recommendation every mobile DJ needs—a specialized travel garment bag that keeps performance attire pristine. At just $47, this half-garment, half-duffel hybrid ensures you'll never arrive at an event with wrinkled or compromised clothing again.

Finally, we tackle the balance between automation and personal touch in DJ businesses. Both Brian and Jos recommend automating repetitive tasks while maintaining direct involvement in critical client interactions. As Joe emphatically states: "I don't care how big or small your company is. You have to have a CRM, period."

Subscribe to Beyond the DJ Booth for more insider tips and candid conversations about building a successful DJ business that stands out from the crowd!

RESOURCES & LINKS

Our website. Please leave a review! - https://www.beyondthedjbooth.com/
To book Joe Bunn: https://bunndjcompany.com/
To book Brian B: https://djbrianbofficial.com/
Joe’s Gear Finds on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shop/djjoebunn
Brian’s Gear Finds on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shop/djbrianbofficial
DJ Event Planner free demo: https://www.djeventplanner.com/signup.php
Brian B's Coaching Options: Https://www.thdjscreativeedge.com

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What do you do when the CEO's nephew wants to commandeer your DJ booth mid-event? How about when a client expects free services because you "have a connection"? These real-world ethical dilemmas plague professional DJs, and Brian B and Joe Bunn are tackling them head-on.

Drawing from Reddit's notorious "Am I The A-hole" threads, we dissect five scenarios that reveal the complex moral territory DJs navigate at every gig. From wedding planners demanding last-minute changes to the uncomfortable territory of overtime requests, we share our combined decades of experience to help you handle these situations with both professionalism and business savvy.

The overtime discussion proves particularly revealing – exposing our different philosophies on flexibility versus firm boundaries. Brian advocates for clear policies established during planning, while Joe takes a more situational approach. Both perspectives offer valuable insights for DJs at any career stage.

Beyond ethical quandaries, we showcase practical tools that make DJ life easier, including Brian's game-changing mini heat sealer that keeps on-the-go snacks fresh during marathon events. Our music finds segment has Brian delivering three exceptional tracks that solve specific DJ problems: transitioning between genres, offering clean alternatives to problematic artists, and bridging musical worlds seamlessly.

We wrap with an honest conversation about DJ networking behavior. Why do some professionals feel compelled to name-drop venues and brag about rates? How can you avoid these common pitfalls while building authentic industry relationships? Our candid discussion might make some uncomfortable – but that's exactly the point.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting your DJ journey, this episode delivers actionable wisdom on navigating the interpersonal challenges that technical skills alone can't solve. Subscribe now and join the conversation!

RESOURCES & LINKS

Our website. Please leave a review! - https://www.beyondthedjbooth.com/
To book Joe Bunn: https://bunndjcompany.com/
To book Brian B: https://djbrianbofficial.com/
Joe’s Gear Finds on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shop/djjoebunn
Brian’s Gear Finds on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shop/djbrianbofficial
DJ Event Planner free demo: https://www.djeventplanner.com/signup.php
Brian B's Coaching Options: Https://www.thdjscreativeedge.com

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Wedding cocktail hours set the tone for the entire reception, yet finding that perfect musical sweet spot between ambient background and engaging atmosphere remains an elusive challenge for many DJs. In this season opener, Joe Bunn and Brian B reveal their secret weapons: tracks that consistently make guests approach the booth asking, "What is this song?"

The hosts share carefully selected gems ranging from Sylow's smooth R&B cover of "Dilemma" to Jazzy D's reimagined "I Just Want to Be Your Everything" that delivers the perfect groove for guests still transitioning from ceremony mode. These selections strike the delicate balance of being recognizable enough to connect with multiple generations while offering fresh arrangements that elevate the atmosphere beyond predictable standards.

Beyond the music, Joe revisits his controversial take on DJ business sellability, providing valuable context about building sustainable multi-operator models versus remaining a solo performer—particularly critical as DJs reach their 40s and 50s facing increased competition from younger talent. This segment offers a masterclass in long-term business planning that any entrepreneurial DJ should consider.

The episode rounds out with practical recommendations including a game-changing $11 steamer/iron combo perfect for traveling DJs, plus an extensive breakdown of the hosts' favorite music pools and subscription services for staying current with quality edits.

Want access to the full cocktail hour playlist featured in this episode? Comment "heater" on Joe's personal Instagram, and while you're feeling generous, leave us a review on your podcast platform of choice!

RESOURCES & LINKS

Our website. Please leave a review! - https://www.beyondthedjbooth.com/
To book Joe Bunn: https://bunndjcompany.com/
To book Brian B: https://djbrianbofficial.com/
Joe’s Gear Finds on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shop/djjoebunn
Brian’s Gear Finds on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shop/djbrianbofficial
DJ Event Planner free demo: https://www.djeventplanner.com/signup.php
Brian B's Coaching Options: Https://www.thdjscreativeedge.com

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"What would your ultimate DJ crew look like?" We kick off our season finale with a fantasy draft where we build our dream teams – from hype men like Lil Jon and DJ Kool to security (Taylor Swift's $1.3 million bodyguard, anyone?) and tech support that could save your event from disaster.

Fresh off his European adventure, Joe takes us behind the scenes of his strategic vacation through Iceland and Paris. The journey delivered unexpected celebrity sightings (Leonardo DiCaprio at the Blue Lagoon!), otherworldly landscapes, and luxury experiences at the Louis Vuitton-owned Cheval Blanc hotel. Travel nerds will appreciate our breakdown of the essential gadgets from Brian's previous episode reccomendations that made Joe's international travel seamless.

We wrap with perhaps the most awkward question in wedding DJ history: would you ever tell a couple their first dance song is terrible? Our honest answer might surprise you, as we navigate the delicate balance between professional expertise and respecting clients' personal connections to music. After two incredible seasons, we're grateful for your support and excited to keep the conversations going in season three!

RESOURCES & LINKS

Our website. Please leave a review! - https://www.beyondthedjbooth.com/
To book Joe Bunn: https://bunndjcompany.com/
To book Brian B: https://djbrianbofficial.com/
Joe’s Gear Finds on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shop/djjoebunn
Brian’s Gear Finds on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shop/djbrianbofficial
DJ Event Planner free demo: https://www.djeventplanner.com/signup.php
Brian B's Coaching Options: Https://www.thdjscreativeedge.com

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Step into the world of DJing with our latest episode, where we explore hilarious and relatable "Would You Rather" scenarios designed just for DJs. Join hosts Brian B. and Joe Bunn as they navigate through wild hypothetical situations, from last-minute playlist changes to handling the unconventional requests of excited wedding guests. This episode merges laughter with real-world experiences in the unpredictable realm of DJing, offering both entertainment and valuable tips for navigating common issues.

We delve into the importance of preparation in DJing, sharing personal stories that highlight the challenges professionals face on the job. Whether it's managing drunken bridesmaids or working with challenging equipment, our hosts reveal their thought processes behind each dilemma while delivering laughs along the way. Beyond the humor, we shift gears to discuss the art of gifting in the DJ industry. Learn how personalizing thank-you gifts can foster strong relationships with vendors and clients, turning a simple gesture into a meaningful connection.

This playful yet insightful episode shines a light on what it truly means to be a DJ while offering takeaways that can enhance your career. Tune in for the laughs, insights, and expert advice that will help you excel in your role as a DJ. Don't forget to subscribe, share with your fellow DJs, or leave us a review to keep the conversation going!

RESOURCES & LINKS

Our website. Please leave a review! - https://www.beyondthedjbooth.com/
To book Joe Bunn: https://bunndjcompany.com/
To book Brian B: https://djbrianbofficial.com/
Joe’s Gear Finds on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shop/djjoebunn
Brian’s Gear Finds on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shop/djbrianbofficial
DJ Event Planner free demo: https://www.djeventplanner.com/signup.php
Brian B's Coaching Options: Https://www.thdjscreativeedge.com

Send us a text

Ever wondered why your head starts sweating just from a splash of buffalo sauce? Join us on this entertaining episode of Beyond the DJ Booth Podcast, where Brian B and Joe Bunn Jr. take a humorous look at this peculiar phenomenon. We kick things off with a laugh-inducing game of "Who Said It?", as we try to decipher if DJ philosophies come from A-List DJs or just some random social media users. We sprinkle in some travel tips, including a  favorite gadget of Brian's—the AirFly Bluetooth adapter, a game changer for wireless headphone enthusiasts on flights.

We also swap stories about our time at the Foundry Hotel in Phoenix, Arizona, praising its top-notch service and incredible food. Drawing inspiration from industry stalwarts like Eric Rhodes and DJ Malike, we explore the impact of social media and content creation on the DJ scene. Listener questions lead us to discuss the tricky waters of insurance requirements, particularly workers' compensation and for cold sparks. As we share our insights, we underline the importance of running this stuff by an insurance professional. Whether you're here for the laughs or the lessons, this episode is packed with both!

RESOURCES & LINKS

Our website. Please leave a review! - https://www.beyondthedjbooth.com/
To book Joe Bunn: https://bunndjcompany.com/
To book Brian B: https://djbrianbofficial.com/
Joe’s Gear Finds on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shop/djjoebunn
Brian’s Gear Finds on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shop/djbrianbofficial
DJ Event Planner free demo: https://www.djeventplanner.com/signup.php
Brian B's Coaching Options: Https://www.thdjscreativeedge.com

Send us a text

Picture this: you're DJing a museum gala, trying to keep the energy high, but you have to pause for painting unveilings. Sounds like a nightmare, doesn't it? Join Joe Bunn and Brian i as they share their wild rides through the unpredictable world of private event DJing. Joe recounts his recent streak of challenging gigs, including a lackluster rehearsal dinner and that unforgettable museum gala. Meanwhile, Brian offers insights from DJing a Tim Tebow Foundation event, where he faced the unique task of spinning tunes for a diverse, faith-based crowd at a "prom" for those who never got the chance to attend one. Together, they explore how each event's quirks challenge them and what they learn from these experiences.

But that's not all! We're also sharing some DJ essentials and savvy marketing tips. Discover why a simple short edit of a song can evoke nostalgia and explore the versatility of a super fast charging cable that's a travel must-have. We tackle a listener's query about setting up a YouTube store and reveal how integrating Google and Shopify can create a seamless online experience. Join us as we reflect on lessons learned and our dedication to providing valuable content to our audience.

RESOURCES & LINKS

Our website. Please leave a review! - https://www.beyondthedjbooth.com/
To book Joe Bunn: https://bunndjcompany.com/
To book Brian B: https://djbrianbofficial.com/
Joe’s Gear Finds on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shop/djjoebunn
Brian’s Gear Finds on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shop/djbrianbofficial
DJ Event Planner free demo: https://www.djeventplanner.com/signup.php
Brian B's Coaching Options: Https://www.thdjscreativeedge.com

Send us a text

Step into the vibrant world of the Beyond the DJ Booth Podcast, where we unpack the intricacies of music awards, entertainment spectacles, and the DJ business landscape. Do you think a Super Bowl performance and industry dynamics could sway Grammy winner picks? Join us as we celebrate hitting the 5,000 download milestone across 22 episodes, with heartfelt thanks to our dedicated listeners. We unravel the mystery behind "Record of the Year" versus "Song of the Year," sharing our surprise at some of the winners in various categories.

Switching gears, we explore the bold spectacle of Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl Halftime Show and its polarizing reception. Should future halftime shows aim to captivate the masses or push creative boundaries? We also tackle the complexities of selling a DJ business without tangible assets or recurring contracts, offering insights into sustainable business models that allow owners to step back from active DJing. From the challenges of handling financials when buying such a business to the broader hurdles of the event industry, we wrap up with gratitude for the feedback and engagement from our valued audience.

RESOURCES & LINKS

Our website. Please leave a review! - https://www.beyondthedjbooth.com/
To book Joe Bunn: https://bunndjcompany.com/
To book Brian B: https://djbrianbofficial.com/
Joe’s Gear Finds on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shop/djjoebunn
Brian’s Gear Finds on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shop/djbrianbofficial
DJ Event Planner free demo: https://www.djeventplanner.com/signup.php
Brian B's Coaching Options: Https://www.thdjscreativeedge.com