September 9, 2026
Serato DJ 5.0 Public Beta First Look – Beatgrids Go Lucid!
Serato’s 5.0 versions of DJ Pro and DJ Lite have gone into public beta today. They bring with them new flexible BPM analysis, called Lucid Beatgrids...
Thursday, August 14, 2014
DJ Craze’s Definition of a ‘Real DJ’
A conversation about what it means to be a “real DJ” wouldn’t be complete without hearing from DJ Craze. Regarded as one of the best turntablists of all-time, Craze is still the only solo DJ to win three DMC World DJ Championships consecutively (1998–2000).
Although famous for his technical abilities, Craze started off with party rocking as his main goal. In a recent Instagram response to A-Trak’s comments about “real DJing,” the Nicaraguan-born DJ not only praised some of his fellow turntablists, but also festival DJs such as Diplo, Laidback Luke, and Flosstradamus, who he referred to as “absolute dons.”
“My turn. This is a subject that I’m really passionate about. I’ve been actively DJing since 96. I’ve seen the Dj game change over the years, mostly for the better with technology and skill level. I am more of a Tablist so for me skills has always been my focus looking up to the gawds QBERT, Roc Raida, Noize, Mix Master Mike, Kentaro and Atrak just to name a few. But I did start off as a selector so rocking a party was always my main goal. People like Kid Capri, Andy C, J Rocc and Gaslampkiller inspire me with the selection and raw skills. All of these dudes are ‘Real DJs’ in my opinion because they take chances and continue to take it to the next level. But I don’t sleep on the fact that DJ’s are entertainers and are there to rock the party/festival. Laidback Luke, Flosstradamus and Diplo are absolute dons when in control of a crowd and to me that’s real DJing at its finest. So now let’s talk about technology … For me I could give three shits what you use .. Ableton, sync button, cdjs or controllers as long as you get creative and are not cheerleading for most of your sets. …. What’s your definition of #realdjing ?”
With all the changes that are happening in DJ culture and the scene at large, it’s great to see guys like Craze speak their mind and let folks know where they stand. We hope the discussion continues.
Related: A-Trak: ‘DJing is About Taking Risks’
