When beginner DJs want to learn to DJ there are plenty of new words and concepts to understand – from the roots of DJing to the basic meaning of B2Bs.
In this post, we will take a look at an under-the-radar concept known as “mix rate”, often sadly misunderstood. Specifically, we will take a look at how the rate at which you mix and place tracks influences your DJ sets and how you can use this concept to control the energy of your performance at three basic levels. It’s important to note that this isn’t a “skill distinction”, being able to mix quickly is a DJ skill you can train but doesn’t make one DJ better than another.
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What is Mix Rate in DJing?
In DJ Theory, the mix rate is the frequency at which a DJ changes tracks in the mix. You can measure it by the number of tracks played per hour or per set. Sometimes this is also called the “density” of the mix or the “speed” of the mix.
If a DJ set has a low mix rate, then the DJ is likely letting playing tracks from start to finish with longer play times per track. In contrast, if a DJ set has a high mix rate, the DJ is likely changing up the track often playing at a fast rate often not playing the entire track.
How does the mix rate impact a DJ set energy?
The mix rate of a DJ set has is not indicative of higher skill levels or quality – it simply imparts a different subjective experience of the set. Many DJs practice quick mixing as a skill (you can try this exercise by enrolling in L2DJ’s Versatility Series) but it does not make them “better” DJs. Using this concept can help you understand why some DJ sets have a higher more bombastic energy their others, which is critical when you are learning to DJ.
- A fast rate will be perceived by the audience as a faster paced mix because there is a constant change in the direction of music; whereas
- A slow rate will be perceived by the audience as more smooth and progressive.
Do Not Go Overboard: Balance in a set is critical
Balance is essential in life and DJing, so when it comes to mix rate, mixing too quickly too soon in the evening will upset the crowd. It takes time to find the groove and if you change the track too quickly the crwod will lose the beat and get frustrated with rapid changes. Imagine that you are really getting down the rhythm and bass of a track as you jack your body uncontrollably and the DJ suddenly flips the track to some new beat – you’re going to be understandably frustrated.
Whereas mixing too quickly has consequences, mixing too slowly can also make for monotonous mixes – i.e., a walking Jukebox or Spotify playlist rather than a real DJane – that fails to elevate the total energy of the set. Paul Oakenfold’s Joni’s Havana BBC Radio 1 set is a great example of using high rate to create excitement and energy while still not moving over the top.
Examples of changing rates throughout the evening
Changing your rate of mixing throughout the night will ensure a logical progression and climax to the evening. We all have a feeling for the narrative arc of a DJ set – it is an essential foundation to a good night out; if you’re looking for more details on designing a DJ set checkout L2DJ’s Beginner to Intermediate course for House/Techno DJs.
Depending on your sets assigned slow or sequence in the night, you will likely have a faster or slower mix rate to appease expectations of the crowd. Let’s look at a high level view of an evening out:
- Early evening: in the night keep the rate low and allow tracks to breath
- Mid evening: increase the mix rate to a medium rate to build energy
- Peak time: increase the mix rate to a medium-fast rate to climax
- Come down: decrease the mix rate to a medium-slow rate
As you can see varying mix-rate throughout the evening can keep things interesting and bubble the excitement to a pivotal climax for your dancers.
Conclusion
The concept of mix rate is just one additional tool in your toolbox as a DJ in search of musical influence. As mentioned, the rate at which you mix has no bearing on your skill – in fact a DJ who cannot properly adjust their mix rate to meet the genre or performance they are at is less versatile than one who can. Being a great DJ means being adaptable and mix rate can help you understand why and how to take the party to the next level.