From Bedroom DJ to Techno Main Stage: Can it really be done?
Priceless Tips for Every Aspiring Techno Artist
By 6AM
October 5, 2024 at 7:31 AM PT
Phil Berg live @ WORK Los Angeles - Photo by 7ISHeaven
If you’re an aspiring Techno DJ or producer wondering if it's possible to go from spinning tracks in your bedroom to playing on a main stage at Techno festivals, raves, or iconic clubs, the answer is simple: yes, it’s absolutely possible. Every Techno headliner you admire, from the pioneers to today's underground icons, started from humble beginnings. The journey to success in the Techno scene isn’t easy, but it’s possible with dedication, hard work, and the right mindset.
In this blog post, I’ll cover timeless tips for aspiring Techno artists that will help you move from the bedroom to the main stage. If you're passionate about Techno music and looking to break into the scene, these tips will be invaluable to your journey.
Every Artist Starts Somewhere
It’s easy to see today’s top Techno DJs and assume they’ve always been playing at festivals like Awakenings, Time Warp, or clubs like Berghain and Watergate. But that’s far from the truth. Every Techno artist starts somewhere, often mixing tracks from their bedroom. Your journey is no different. Whether you're mixing Techno for friends in a small studio or experimenting with production, remember that every Techno headliner started from scratch.
Mindset Over Equipment: An Artist’s Secret Weapon
Many aspiring Techno artists fall into the trap of thinking they need the latest gear or expensive setups to succeed. While quality gear helps, your mindset is the true secret weapon. You don’t need a $5,000 synthesizer or mixer to break into the Techno scene. What you need is resilience, patience, and discipline. Developing these mental traits will push you through challenges that come with the journey. Remember, in Techno, your mindset is just as important as your equipment.
Avoid Shortcuts: Building an Artist Career Takes Time
The rise of online masterclasses and tutorials may make it seem like you can fast-track your way to success, but here’s the reality: there are no shortcuts in Techno. The top Techno DJs and producers spent years perfecting their craft, networking, and honing their sound. Don’t be fooled by quick-fix solutions. Building a lasting career in Techno requires time, effort, and consistency. There’s no shortcut to the top of the Techno charts, just a commitment to the grind.
Create Your Own Opportunities in the Techno Scene
If you’re waiting for the right opportunity to come knocking on your door, you could be waiting forever. In the Techno industry, creating your own opportunities is essential. Whether it's starting your own Techno label, promoting your own events, or collaborating with local artists, don’t be a passive opportunist. The Techno scene thrives on community and collaboration, so focus on creating opportunities for yourself and others around you. This mindset will help you build connections and gain exposure.
Trust the Process: Enjoy the Journey
Every artist's journey is different, and there’s no specific timeline for success in Techno. Some artists break through quickly, while others take years to gain recognition. What’s important is trusting the process. Keep working on your sound, connecting with the community, and performing at local events. The Techno journey is a marathon, not a sprint, and the more you commit to the grind, the more rewarding the journey becomes.
Stop Comparing Yourself to Other Artists
The Techno scene is competitive, and it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to others. But the only artist you should be competing with is yourself. Focus on improving your production, your DJ sets, and your networking skills. Techno is about pushing boundaries, both creatively and personally, so make it a point to grow each day, no matter how small the progress may seem.
Networking is Key: Build Genuine Relationships
If there’s one thing that can fast-track your Techno career, it’s networking. But don’t just focus on making surface-level connections. Build genuine relationships with other artists, promoters, and fans in the Techno community. Attend events, support other DJs, and engage with people who are passionate about the scene. The Techno industry thrives on community, and the relationships you build will open doors for your career.
Patience and Persistence Pay Off
Success in Techno doesn’t happen overnight. It takes years of dedication to gain recognition in the scene. Patience and persistence are your best friends in this journey. Keep releasing music, playing shows, and perfecting your craft. The more consistent you are, the more opportunities will come your way. The best Techno artists understand that patience is part of the process.
Consistency is Key: The Secret to Growing
If there’s one piece of advice that applies to every aspiring Techno DJ or producer, it’s this: be consistent. Whether you’re releasing tracks, sending demos to labels, or performing at small local gigs, consistency is what will separate you from the rest. Consistent effort builds momentum and increases your chances of breaking into the Techno scene. It’s not about doing everything perfectly; it’s about showing up every day and putting in the work.
Mastering Your Mindset and Craft
Before you think about main stage festivals or international bookings, focus on mastering your mindset and craft. Phase One of your journey is all about building the mental toughness needed to handle the pressures of the industry while developing your skills as a DJ and producer. Once you’ve laid the groundwork, Phase Two will be about getting your music out there and growing your brand. But first, you need to focus on perfecting your craft and locking in your mind for this journey ahead.
The journey from bedroom DJ to Techno main stage artist is achievable, but it takes time, hard work, and the right mindset. Stay patient, stay focused, and put in the daily work to improve yourself and your sound. Remember, there are no shortcuts in Techno, and every small step forward brings you closer to your goals.
Ready to take the first step? Join Phase One of the ArtistMap series to kickstart your Techno career and build a strong foundation for your success.