You can’t DJ without a library of DJ music. But where can you source tracks from without breaking the bank?
The cost of building a music library can very quickly spiral out of your control, especially if you are up and coming. Fortunately, there are numerous ways in which you can access downloadable, quality and legal music without hurting the back pocket.
The Importance of Legally Downloading Music
Before we break down the specifics of how and where to find DJ music, it’s imperative that you understand the legal framework of music in Australia.
Copyright laws protect musical creations of artists and improper use without authorisation can lead to serious consequences. It is also just wrong to do.
As an artist yourself, you can appreciate the importance of protecting the rights of music creators. Fair use regulations ensure that copyrighted material can be fairly used even without permission, however what this covers is relatively limited. Always make sure that you are using licensed music and obtain permission to use any copyrighted music.
The Best Way to Download Music for DJing
Luckily for you, we live in the age of the internet. And the world wide web has several legitimate avenues through which you can build your DJ music library.
Digital Music Stores
Dedicated digital music stores offer wide-ranging and easily accessible DJ music. The tracks are high quality, there is a large selection and the downloads are often even DRM free.
The downside to these stores is that they do cost. While the costs vary, it can get quite expensive for amateur DJs still trying to make bank and establish a name for themselves.
1.Beatport
Beatport is a popular choice for electronic music tracks and offers a wide range of both music genres and formats.
2. Apple Music
Apple Music, formerly known as iTunes, has a great selection of music and high quality downloads. However, the costs of building a library can rack up.
3. Juno Download
Juno Download is another popular online platform for electronic music. Though it does have a focus on independent labels, there are plenty of gems waiting to be discovered.
Music Streaming Platforms
Music streaming services are far more affordable than individually purchasing tracks and offer access to literally millions of songs. However, there are often limitations on downloading and there can even be potential audio quality restrictions too.
1. Spotify
As one of the biggest services, Spotify offers a vast library of music and different subscription tiers to help you begin to create your music sets.
2. Apple Music
Apple Music also offers a streaming component. If you are an Apple product user, using Apple Music offers seamless integration and high-quality audio i.e., a winning combination.
3. Tidal
Tidal is known for its high-fidelity audio and exclusive musical content. If you’re an audiophile-type of DJ, this streaming service is a go-to.
4. Beatsource Streaming and Beatport Streaming
Beatsource Streaming and Beatport Streaming are lesser known but slightly more DJ-focused streaming services with quite unique catalogues and even some rather exclusive edits.
Record Labels and Distributors
Another option for finding the perfect DJ music is to go directly to the record labels or distributors of the tracks you are after. Not only does this get you access to exclusive tracks often, but it can help you build a network and benefit from direct support from other artists.
Of course, it can be time-consuming to research, contact and successfully engage different record labels. One way to go about this is to check out the social media of your favourite artists and labels. Keep updated with the new releases, especially across platforms such as SoundCloud and Bandcamp. Familiarising yourself with independent labels can help expose you to affordable and unique music you otherwise may have missed. Artists are often releasing free tracks and exclusive content – so it’s important to stay ahead of the curve!
Free Music Resources
Additionally, there are multiple free music resources online offering easy-to-access and completely legal music downloads.
Platforms like SoundCloud, Bandcamp and even Creative Commons offer both free downloads and even pay-what-you-want pricing options.
Always check the specific licenses of any music tracks you are considering, as ultimately the onus of doing the right thing is on you.
Online Record Pools
Record pools are exclusive subscription-based services that are curated libraries of music for DJs to use. Crate Connect, for example, offers unlimited track downloads on any subscription plan. This is ideal for DJs wanting to access a diverse range of music for their remixing and general use.
Free Music Archive and Jamendo are other legal and (sometimes) free music pools that DJs can frequent and find a great selection of music.
More Tips on Where to Get Tracks for DJing
- Utilise promotional codes and discounts across digital music stores to access legal music at fantastic prices.
- Network with other DJs and artists to share freely and connect with new sources and pools of tracks.
- Play in music contests. Some industry contests allow you to download music tracks for use in your entry, which can be a great way to access and discover new music.
Need Assistance Finding DJ Music? Contact us today!
The team at DJ City are not just experts in all things DJ equipment and hardware, we’re enthusiasts of all things track mixing and music creation too!
So, whether you’re looking for the right piece of gear to help you mix your next track or still are unsure about the best way to download music for DJing, contact us today.
