DJ Prices in India

Most people planning a budget for the events they wish to organize forget to factor in the deejay or are unsure about how much a deejay charges. A DJ usually is not a part of people's priority list. However, a DJ is an important part of most events and helps in making the event lively.

A skilled DJ knows their audience and invites the guests to the dance floor to lighten the mood of the event. A DJ does not only cater to various events but is also an essential part of a radio broadcast team and is the voice of the radio station. A DJ sometimes combines different tracks or creates their own music to produce new beats. Usually, a DJ is in a position to cater to various events like weddings, anniversary parties, and play music in bars, clubs, festivals, and concerts. There are a few things to keep I mind while hiring a DJ and having an in depth knowledge is their charges is highly recommended.

Join VenueLook | Get Best Quotes

How much does a DJ cost?

A basic DJ charge around Rs. 25,000 for their basic package and the price may vary depending on demand, popularity, and experience. A popular DJ usually works independently and charges anywhere between Rs. 20,000 to 80,000 per gig and the most popular ones that usually perform at huge fests charge around Rs. 5 lakhs per gig. Most DJ’s have their own equipment and set up and many of these companies also offer additional services like lighting, photo booths, video screens, karaoke and much more for a fun-filled night. Some of the factors included in to cost of the DJ are-

Time- The price may change according to the amount of time a DJ spends at the venue. Thye sometimes come in early to unload and set up the equipment, as well as stay later to wind up, disassemble all equipment and pack up.

Type of music- It is best to meet your DJ three to four weekds prior to your event to finalize the music you require. Depending on the type of music you choose the charges will vary. If you just want them to play some songs, the price will be less as compared to playing EDM’s or personalizing your music.

Equipment- In case your DJ requires to buy extra equipment for your event, they may charge extra accordingly. If a console or video screen is required to display the music videos, the charges will increase.

Travel- If you plan to host a destination event which will require the DJ to travel, you may be asked to incure the travel and accomodation expenses like in the case of a destination wedding. It is adviced to hire a local DJ if you are on a budget.

Booking time- it is advisable to book your DJ well in advance, because the later you book you DJ the higher will be the charges. Especially if it is a DJ that is in demand, they may have prior commitments and might not be able to make the time to fit in your event.

Join VenueLook | Get Best Quotes

What types of jobs and gigs does a DJ cater to?

Weddings and corporate gigs

A DJ can charge anywhere between Rs. 10,000 to 90,000 for performing at a wedding or large scale corporate event. The price is usually on the higher end if you go for a popular and experienced DJ with a good skill set.

Radio stations

Radio DJ’s work on a salary basis and get paid directly from radio stations itself. They ear around Rs. 6,50,000 per year. Since there ar elimited radio stations in India, a radio DJ needs a well defined skill set and imense talent to be employed.

Bars and clubs

DJ’s that play at residency bars and clubs basically work on a monthly salary that ranges from Rs. 30,000 to 80,000 depending on the club and the popularity of the DJ. They get the ooportunity to play on expensive and latest equipment.

Gigs at bars, clubs and festivals

Independent DJ’s work at various bars and clubs as well as perform at concerts and huge fests. They charge around Rs. 20,000- 5 lakhs per gig depending on the demand and experience.

A pro DJ will charge more than one that is just starting out and looking for jobs, depending on your preference and budget go for the DJ that will best meet your needs.

Join VenueLook | Get Best Quotes

Tips to find the right DJ

• Don’t automatically go with someone you know. You may have a cousin, friend, or acquaintance who is a DJ, so you feel like you should choose them for your event. Verify their qualifications and then choose them, let that be a determining factor instead of your relationship with them. In case you do choose to go with someone you know, don’t keep things casual- make sure you sign a contract with a proper format that lists their expectations as well as yours.
• Check with the venue director or manager. Does your venue have a preferred DJ? If so, that DJ probably knows the venues acoustics and any special concerns. Even if you decide not to go with this DJ, make sure you interview them to atleast get a basic idea of what type of DJ would work best with the venue.
• Ask for referrals. As your friends and family for recommendations and if they have anyone In mind that might make your event a success.
• Make a short-list of DJs and interview them. If a DJ doesn’t make time for your interview or prioritize you, keep looking. You need someone you puts you first and meets your expectations to the full capacity.
• Check out their equipment and ask them if what they have is all they require. Some DJ’s add an extra charge for fancy equipment so make sure you ask for the proper breakdown of their charges.
• Ask about their music library and ask them to play you some sample pieces to get an idea of what kind of music they play. If you would like to make any recommendations, changes or modifications to their playlist, it is best to ask if that will be possible before hand to avoid any end moment confusion.
• If you are finalizing the DJ for a wedding party, hand them a list of all the names and ask them to go through it before the wedding so that they can pronouce all the names; in case any requests are made. This will also add a personal touch to the wedding and make the guests feel welcome.
• Do ask them about other options, like uplighting, décor, stage set up, additional speakers or amplifiers. All these options will enhance the mood of your event and make it special.
• See how you feel about him or her. You are going to be spending a lot of time with your event vendors and your DJ is going to be a major part of your event. If you do not feel immediately comfortable with a DJ, then you should probably keep looking!
• Don’t forget to ask them if they have other priorities or commitments on the day of our event. You want your DJ to be energized and well rested to give their best performance at your event.

Join VenueLook | Get Best Quotes