“Beatmatch” AKA “Play Club Style”?

With the advancements we have in technology today “beatmatching” can be done with the press of a button.

Most DJ controllers, even the most basic ones have technology built right into them from the get-go.

But, how important would this be for your event?

Firstly, let’s have a clear and concise definition of what beat-matching is …

What is Beatmatch

“A set of DJ techniques used to manipulate upcoming tracks to match its tempo (BPM) to that of the currently playing track, also to adjust them such that the beats (and, usually, the bars of said tracks) are synchronized.” – Or in la-mans terms, to match the tempo from one song to another to create a seamless mix of music.

So is the beat-matching thing important for my event?

In my over 15 years of experience, knowing how to transition from one song to another can be the difference from having your guest bobbing their heads at their table, to rocking out on the dance floor!

Even with the exact same playlists (Say from Spotify, or iTunes), having an experienced DJ put together the music for you in a seamless manner will almost always heighten the experience of the party for you and your guests.

There are other techniques that go beyond simply beatmatching…such as Phrasing, Looping, Mixing by Key, and a host of others that help to keep the party going and the energy up! These other techniques are all built upon beatmatching. The other techniques mentioned above could further enhance your DJ’s transitions, but in order to do the above mentioned beatmatching is quintessential. Still, for the most part I would say that the beatmatching in itself is easily one of the most important techniques your DJ should know how to do with ease.

So, I would highly suggest that you ask your DJ if they know how to beatmatch.

Especially if you’re having a Wedding Reception, School Dance, After-party, or any other type of event where you’re hoping for your guest to get out on the dance floor and boogie the night away.

There are other events where the music is more low-key, and you’re hoping your guest will do more mingling than dancing, then beatmatching may not be so crucial. Such as cocktail parties, art shows, or any type of events where the music is more suited in the background. That being said your DJ should still be able to transition from track to track on the “Downbeat” so there is no, or minimal “dead air”. In my opinion the only time “Dead Air” is OK is during dinner. Most DJ’s know what the term “Downbeat” means.

In short:

Having a DJ that can beatmatch will almost always be beneficial to any party where you’re hoping your guests will get up and dance.

You may not need your DJ to beatmatch if your hoping your guest will mingle more than dance. Still try to keep dead air to a minimal.

I hope this gives you some in-site on what to ask of your DJ, and helps answer your questions regarding beatmatching.

Anymore questions please go ahead and contact me.