Becoming a famous DJ is a difficult thing to accomplish. Learning the music, the equipment, and the other various skills needed to become successful in this industry is only the tip of the proverbial iceberg. DJs become famous by networking with the right people and involving themselves in the club scene. Being known is almost as important as the musical skills you possess.
The top DJs around include names like Roger Sanchez and Frankie Knuckles, but what exactly made these people so well-known? The ability to spin and mix songs seamlessly and creatively while building their own creative style is the hinge-pin piece of the puzzle. Roger Sanchez made a name for himself by making his own CDs originally, from scratch. He also produces, engineers, and writes his own songs.
Frankie Knuckles is considered the Godfather of House since he is the DJ who created the house music style when he was working as a DJ in the 1970s and 80s. Frankie won a Grammy for Remixer of the Year when the award was originated. Some of the artists he has worked with over the years include Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, and Luther Vandross. No list of world famous DJs would be complete without a discussion of David Guetta. His popularity stems from his crossover appeal to all audiences, regardless of age. David has been DJ-ing for over 20 years and he is proof that you have to stay current to remain in the game.
Paul Van Dyk continually makes the top ten lists of best DJs due to his ability to collaborate successfully with other artists and market himself and his team uniquely. He has been heard to say that he loves what he does and as a result, he is successful. Junior Vasquez is a recognized name in the dance club scene who always knows exactly what his audience is going to want. His skills at spinning and producing music are legendary. He seems to have a knack for knowing exactly what each audience is in the mood for and he delivers it flawlessly. His own label was created as a way to express his musical hobby overflow and it sort of just took off.
Last, but certainly not least in the list of current popular DJs, Armin Van Buuren is surprising himself with his seemingly endless amount of fans. The industry as a whole recognizes Armin's skill as a DJ and producer which makes him a very big name in the huge entertainment industry. With a musical style of progressive and trance with a smattering of house, Armin is a force to be reckoned with. One thing that is completely agreed on by competitors and friends is Armin's total lack of cockiness. He is a nice guy doing what he loves and he is enjoying the success of his efforts.
Back in the early 80s, when synthesizers were brand new, DJ Afrika Bambaataa released a hip-hop song called "Planet Rock" which took the world by storm. The use of electronic beats in hip-hop music revolutionized the digital music industry. By the time the 90s rolled around, DJs were a standard element of the club scene. Magazines and websites devoted to DJs sprung up and superstars of the industry were being created.