Keeping relevant as a DJ is tough work. It requires you to constantly search for new music for every gig which can be not only time consuming, but incredibly expensive; especially if you’re purchasing individual tracks from Beatport or Traxsource. However, there are tools at our disposal to both streamline relevant content and make it affordable for the working DJ: Record Pools.
Record Pools are websites that allow you unlimited access (usually) to their curated collection of fresh remixes for a monthly rate. This is by far the most logical way to go if you’re a pop/hip hop DJ. For those avant garde techno/Drum and Bass guys and girls, sorry, you’re going to have to stick to cherry picking from Giants like Beatport for the good stuff… but hey! Everyone should have access to one or more of these websites for those surprise private gigs.
We’ve done the homework for you and found the most popular Record Pools for you to add to your inventory:
BPM SUPREME: $9 for 1st month. $29.99/month after that.
bpmsupreme.com/
Pros: Unlimited MP3 Audio Downloads
Unlimited MP4 Video Downloads
Tagged With BPM, Genre, and Key
Massive Selection of tunes compared to other record pools
Cons: None yet. This is probably the best for the money.
DJ City: $90/ 3 month subscription
djcity.com
Pros: Unlimited MP3 Audio downloads
Cons: Mostly hip-hop and no month –to-month payment options
Direct Music Service: $30/month
directmusicservice.com
Pros: Unlimited downloads
Exclusive edits/remixes
Massive back-catalogue dating back to the 1950’s
Cons: Some DJs may dislike that most records on DMS have an intro, few will start cold.
Now that you have your record pool selection down, there is one other tool worth using when deciding whats hot to play: Pooltracktrends.com is another record pool option; however, they also have remix charts for different genres, giving you an edge on what is being played the most. This is a great way to brush up on pop trends if you’ve been out of the game for a minute.
I hope this helps in your search for music!
Chris Zane is a DOD contributor and DJ, who has held club residencies at Rich's, Fbar and renowned techno club, Gravity . Zane also hosts the house & Techno Podcast "The Zephyr Lounge" which you can catch on The Department of Dance Radio, Friday's at 2pm.
