Beyond the DJ Booth

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Ever wonder why so many DJs open the dance floor with "September"? We're pulling back the curtain on dance floor strategy with a candid conversation about song selection that can make or break your event's momentum.

When the photographer co-hosts of The Vendor Table podcast called out DJs for predictable opening tracks, we decided to share our tried-and-tested approach to kicking off memorable dance parties. From James Brown's "Get Up Offa That Thing" to cleverly remixed classics like The Spinners' "I'll Be Around," we reveal how strategic first song choices establish your DJ style while reading the room's energy perfectly.

The episode also features a surprising find – professional-quality in-ear monitors for just $45 that could rival their $1000+ custom-molded counterparts. We discuss how this budget-friendly option delivers exceptional sound quality without breaking the bank, perfect for DJs looking to upgrade their monitoring setup without the premium price tag.

Between our doorbell-triggered dog freakouts and impromptu mall survival debates, we explore the delicate balance between reliable crowd-pleasers and innovative song selection. Whether you're a working DJ looking to refresh your opener arsenal or a client wanting to understand the method behind the music, you'll gain valuable insights into how seasoned professionals craft those crucial first moments on the dance floor.

Ready to elevate your opening track game? Comment "start me up" on our Instagram post to receive our wedding party starter kit Spotify playlist featuring our proven floor-fillers that set the perfect tone every time.

If you're a true Booth Head (super fan of the pod), join our Patreon for all the extras and one-off goodies. You can get there by going to: patreon.com/BeyondTheDJBoothPodcast

Support the show

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 happens when drummers and Whitney Houston collide? In our latest podcast adventure, we dive into the unexpected rhythmic challenge that has swept through social media – hitting the perfect drum beat during "I Will Always Love You." This seemingly simple task proves hilariously difficult even for a seasoned music professional (Joe) who claims he has "perfect timing".

Beyond the drumming antics, we explore essential mobile DJ gear with an in-depth look at the Grip N Gaff carrying system. Originally designed for film industry professionals but perfectly suited for DJs, this durable solution helps transport awkward equipment like speaker stands and lighting tubes that never quite fit in standard cases. At around $100, it's a worthwhile investment for any serious mobile performer looking to streamline their setup and teardown process.

The heart of our conversation centers on real-world DJ challenges, including a recent wedding that required two complete setups – one outdoors for the reception and another indoors for the after-party. This double-duty scenario raises important questions about efficiently managing equipment, maintaining energy through long events, and properly pricing complex services. We candidly discuss the business side of mobile DJing, including the mistake of undercharging for elaborate multi-location setups.

Ceremony sound disasters form another major topic as we share horror stories involving aggressive videographers who create audio interference and officiants who mysteriously mute microphones. These technical nightmares highlight how modern mobile DJs must function as sound engineers despite most having no formal training in this specialized field. Our practical tips for managing these high-pressure situations come from years of experience and countless problem-solving moments.

We wrap up with valuable insights into music library management – comparing organizational systems, cleaning routines, and new AI tools that help identify duplicate tracks. Whether you're a working DJ, aspiring performer, or just fascinated by the behind-the-scenes reality of event entertainment, this episode offers both practical knowledge and entertaining stories from the trenches of professional mobile DJing. Ready to hear what happens when preparation meets unpredictable reality? This episode delivers the perfect mix.

If you're a true Booth Head (super fan of the pod), join our Patreon for all the extras and one-off goodies. You can get there by going to: patreon.com/BeyondTheDJBoothPodcast

Support the show

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 wonder if those viral social media "hacks" are actually legitimate? In this eye-opening episode, Joe and Brian put popular online claims to the test with their own hands-on experiment. Using three Starbucks cups and some freshly brewed coffee, they debunk a widely circulated video suggesting you're getting scammed when buying larger sizes. Their real-time experiment reveals the truth behind this viral claim and sparks a broader conversation about social media skepticism.

The duo then challenges each other with the fascinating "One-Note Challenge," where they attempt to identify popular songs from just a single sustained musical note. This test of musical knowledge demonstrates the incredible ear development that comes from decades of DJ experience, with Joe sharing how he recently stunned his son by correctly naming hundreds of tracks from just a few seconds of audio each.

In a shocking segment, Joe recounts a genuinely frightening experience from a recent gig where an uninvited guest appeared at a private party carrying serious firepower. This unexpected story highlights the unpredictable nature of event work and raises important questions about safety and quick thinking in potentially dangerous situations.

The episode rounds out with a practical "Gear Corner" featuring an affordable portable fan solution for sweltering summer gigs, plus expert advice on solving the persistent problem of tripping GFCI outlets during bass-heavy performances. Their technical troubleshooting reveals that sometimes the culprit isn't what you'd expect, saving listeners potential headaches at future events.

Whether you're a working DJ or simply fascinated by the behind-the-scenes realities of the industry, this episode delivers entertainment, practical solutions, and thought-provoking discussions about the unexpected challenges that arise beyond the DJ booth. Subscribe now and join the conversation about the real truths behind DJ life!

If you're a true Booth Head (super fan of the pod), join our Patreon for all the extras and one-off goodies. You can get there by going to: patreon.com/BeyondTheDJBoothPodcast

Support the show

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’s worse: a best man belting Creed karaoke for five minutes…or a maid of honor hovering in your booth for an hour, vetoing every song you play?

This week, Joe and Brian tackle a real-life “Would You Rather” scenario that no DJ should ever have to face  and somehow come up with a solution that’s actually genius. (Hint: it involves psychology, not power plays.)

From there, the episode slides into luxury mode as Brian reveals his latest splurge: a towel warmer that’s completely changed his post-gig routine. It sparks a surprisingly useful convo about recovery, travel rituals, and why small comforts can make a big difference after decades in the game.

You’ll also get:

• Fresh music picks crushing on Brian’s dance floors
• A quick breakdown on southern soul trends and remix culture
• A no-nonsense roadmap to go from solo op to scaling smart

Whether you’re here for the song ideas, the business advice, or just need to laugh at the insanity DJs deal with every weekend, this one hits all the notes.

If you're a true Booth Head (super fan of the pod), join our Patreon for all the extras and one-off goodies. You can get there by going to: patreon.com/BeyondTheDJBoothPodcast

Support the show

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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Every DJ lives for that moment: you drop the unexpected track and the crowd loses it.

In this episode, Brian and Joe dive into the art of musical left turns; those surprise selections and clever transitions that flip the energy of a set and burn the moment into people’s memories.

Brian shares how he recently cracked an EDM-heavy wedding by dropping a custom edit of Toto’s “Africa”, skipping the extended intro and going straight into the chorus. The result? A packed room singing at full volume. Joe confesses his love for “Sugar, We’re Going Down” (even if it’s just for him), and why sometimes personal joy is the move that wins the crowd.

Then it’s all about wordplay transitions - smooth, witty, and often genius ways to connect songs using lyrics or phrases. Whether it's “It’s Going Down” into “In Da Club,” or Sinatra into Jay-Z, the hosts break down why these creative pivots work and how to execute them without losing flow.

You’ll also hear:

• Favorite examples from DJs like Even Steve and Arman Aveiru
• A clutch piece of backup gear every DJ should own (Rapco Horizon LTGIBLOX Laptop Interface With Ground Lift)
• A surprisingly useful DJ tip involving airplane practice v. coffee shop branding

Want our top 5 wordplay transitions?
Comment “wordplay” on the Instagram reel or YouTube version of this podcast and we’ll send you a special PDF.

This one’s for DJs who want to stay sharp, get creative, and keep the floor guessing.

If you're a true Booth Head (super fan of the pod), join our Patreon for all the extras and one-off goodies. You can get there by going to: patreon.com/BeyondTheDJBoothPodcast

Support the show

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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Is it time to hang up your over-ear headphones for good?

In this episode, Joe and Brian dive into the growing shift toward in-ear monitoring systems and how it’s changing the way DJs mix, monitor, and show up at events. Joe shares his full switch to custom-molded in-ears...a $1,000+ investment that’s paid off with better hearing protection, a cleaner look, and no more broken headbands or flaking ear cups.

Brian, on the other hand, explores a middle path using modular AIAIAI wireless headphones, offering flexibility, comfort, and impressively low latency without fully leaving traditional gear behind.

But this convo goes way beyond specs.

They get real about:

• Monitoring with one ear while staying tuned into the crowd
• Choosing gear that fits your brand image and client perception
• Managing comfort, sound quality, and setup stress during long events

You’ll also hear:

• A clever $10 powerstrip hack to clean up your booth
• A destination wedding gig in Prairie Home, Missouri (population 280)
• Father's Day recaps and the kind of off-the-cuff banter that makes this show feel like a green room hang

Whether you’re a seasoned pro thinking about upgrading your setup or just wondering how others manage their booth flow, this episode gives you real talk and practical insight from DJs who’ve been there.

If you're a true Booth Head (super fan of the pod), join our Patreon for all the extras and one-off goodies. You can get there by going to: patreon.com/BeyondTheDJBoothPodcast

Support the show

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 message

What do you do when the beach wedding you’re DJing turns into a muddy mess… and your booth is now on the dance floor?

In this episode, Joe shares a behind-the-scenes story from one of the most weather-challenged weddings he’s ever worked...a rain-soaked celebration that could’ve been a disaster but turned into one of the couple’s most epic memories. From rerouting power cables to embracing the chaos, it’s a lesson in what real adaptability looks like on event day.

But that’s just one storm.

Brian and Joe also unpack how geography can shape your entire DJ business model. From Arizona’s summer shutdowns to Montana’s blink-and-you’ll-miss-it season, they reveal how the most successful companies adjust recruiting, planning, and marketing around the regional calendar — not just the wedding date.

Then it’s time to face the trolls.

They share real experiences dealing with online critics, from passive-aggressive reviews to straight-up internet clowns. Should you respond? Ignore it? Call your mom? Their candid conversation gives you a practical playbook for navigating the digital drama that comes with visibility.

Finally, for company owners growing their team, Joe breaks down his full recruiting and training process, including why Indeed is still working, how he structures interviews, and the unexpected place Joe suggests scouting new talent: the Apple Store. (Seriously — it makes sense when you hear why.)

Whether you’re building a team, weathering storms (literal or digital), or just looking for a smarter way to run your business, this episode delivers the perspective and practical advice you didn’t know you needed.

If you're a true Booth Head (super fan of the pod), join our Patreon for all the extras and one-off goodies. You can get there by going to: patreon.com/BeyondTheDJBoothPodcast

Support the show

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 message

Every DJ knows the struggle of balancing personal comfort with professional standards, especially during those sweltering summer gigs. This candid conversation between Brian B and Joe Bunn tackles this head-on with Joe's controversial hot take: "grown men should only wear shorts at the beach, at the gym, or if they're a child." Whether you agree or vehemently oppose this position, their passionate debate perfectly captures the hosts' authentic approach to all aspects of DJ life.

The episode weaves through summer plans as Joe shares his impressive concert lineup spanning Avril Lavigne to Mumford & Sons, while Brian tests his Joe's festival knowledge with a playful "real or fake" game. These lighthearted moments balance perfectly with substantive business discussions, particularly when addressing a listener's question about service diversification. Their nuanced take on "niching down" versus expanding offerings provides practical guidance for DJs at every career stage.

Fitness-conscious DJs will appreciate Joe's detailed review of the Whoop wearable fitness tracker, which monitors sleep quality, recovery metrics, and physical strain without the constant distractions of a smartwatch screen. For professionals working late nights and irregular schedules, these insights into physical recovery and stress management are invaluable for sustained career longevity.

The most exciting announcement comes midway through as the hosts reveal details about their upcoming DJ Collective Recharge event in Raleigh this November. With tickets priced substantially lower than previous events and attendance capped at just 100 participants, this intimate professional development opportunity promises meaningful connections and fresh content even for repeat attendees.

Ready to dive deeper into the business and lifestyle of professional DJing? Subscribe now and join the conversation with these industry veterans who combine practical business advice with refreshingly honest takes on DJ culture every Wednesday morning.

If you're a true Booth Head (super fan of the pod), join our Patreon for all the extras and one-off goodies. You can get there by going to: patreon.com/BeyondTheDJBoothPodcast

Support the show

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 message

Welcome to Season 4 of Beyond the DJ Booth ,where the weddings are wild, the carbs are canceled, and we’re just trying to survive both.

This week, we open with a musical quiz no one asked for:
Is “You’re the Reason Our Kids Are Ugly” a real song title?
(Somehow, yes. Thanks, Conway Twitty.)

It spirals from there into a hall-of-fame list of song names that make you question how anything gets past quality control in the music industry.

Then, things heat up as Joe recounts DJ'ing a wedding that was half-Persian, half-American... and 100% confusing at least rhythmically.

He's trying to mix 6/8 into 4/4 while keeping the aunties dancing and the groom’s cousin from hijacking the mic. Spoiler: He mostly succeeds.

Joe also opens up about his month-long battle with sugar, after a doctor told him he was one glucose molecule away from becoming a donut. He drops 12 pounds, avoids bread, and somehow DJed through it all with only minor rage blackouts.

Also in this episode:

• The real price of bad weather and venue flips (and why your gear deserves hazard pay)
• How to respectfully say “I have no idea what this song is, but I’ll play it” at cultural events
• And the surprising overlap between Middle Eastern percussion and Joe’s blood pressure

So grab your noise-canceling earbuds, your ketone strips, and your cultural humility.

Season 4 is here and it’s already sweating through its tux jacket.

Subscribe now and never miss an episode.

If you're a true Booth Head (super fan of the pod), join our Patreon for all the extras and one-off goodies. You can get there by going to: patreon.com/BeyondTheDJBoothPodcast

Support the show

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 message

What happens when your DJ equipment completely fails during the peak of a wedding reception? Brian i takes us through his heart-stopping experience when his laptop froze mid-set, forcing him to create what we're now calling the "Oh S*** Playlist" - a collection of carefully selected tracks designed to keep the dance floor moving during technical emergencies.

The perfect emergency song needs specific qualities: a natural cold ending or smooth fadeout, universal appeal to maintain energy, and enough length to buy precious troubleshooting time or one that has an immediately recognizable hook to start. Brian reveals how songs like Taylor Swift's "You Belong With Me," The Killers' "Mr. Brightside," and The B-52's "Love Shack" saved his performance when mixing wasn't possible. Most remarkably, the wedding couple never realized anything went wrong - the ultimate testament to professional crisis management.

Beyond music emergencies, we explore practical tools every DJ should carry, including a clever pill case system for essential medications that might be needed during long events. At just $9 for a set of three, this simple addition to your DJ bag could save you when unexpected health issues arise on the job.

We also dive into marketing strategies for DJs at different career stages, discussing the relative value of platforms like WeddingWire, Zola, The Knot versus traditional referrals. While established DJs like ourselves now rely primarily on referrals after years of building relationships, newer professionals might need to invest more heavily in paid advertising to jumpstart their business.

Comment "ohshit" on our social media posts to receive our curated Spotify emergency playlist that might save your next gig when technology inevitably betrays you. Because the best DJs aren't those who never face equipment failures - they're the ones who handle those failures so smoothly that no one ever knows they occurred.

If you're a true Booth Head (super fan of the pod), join our Patreon for all the extras and one-off goodies. You can get there by going to: patreon.com/BeyondTheDJBoothPodcast

Support the show

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