Welcome to the newest edition of The Future DJ, your essential guide to the cutting-edge of DJ technology and trends. In this issue, we're exploring the latest advancements that are shaping the DJ world, offering you insights and tools to revolutionize your workflow and amplify your social media presence.

Whether you're a seasoned pro looking to stay ahead of the curve or a budding DJ eager to make your mark, this edition is packed with valuable insights and tips. So, gear up and get ready to explore the future of DJing with us!

Table of Contents

• Live Music in the Metaverse

• Aaron Traylor In The Metaverse

• AfroBeats Soar With Help From Spotify

• YouTube Makes Easy Shorts

• Tuesday Hackathon

• Crate Of The Week

Soundscape's VR Music Platform: A New Realm for Live Music in the Metaverse

What's the Buzz?

Soundscape is revolutionizing the live music experience with its innovative VR music platform, offering immersive virtual performances from top artists and DJs. This groundbreaking platform, built on Unreal Engine 5, is set to transform how we experience concerts and performances.

Key Features:

- Immersive Virtual Concerts: Enjoy performances from artists like Deadmau5, Slash, and Evanescence in a fully immersive virtual environment.

- Interactive Audiovisual Environment: The platform creates a virtual music festival where users can explore, interact, and experience performances using personalized avatars.

- Advanced Graphics and Play Mechanics: Leveraging Unreal Engine 5, Soundscape offers enhanced graphics and play mechanics for a truly lifelike experience.

- Audio-Reactive AI Engine: The platform's AI engine synchronizes the metaverse's lights and visual effects with music, enhancing the user experience.

What Does It Mean for DJs?

- New Performance Venues: DJs can tap into the virtual realm for performing, reaching global audiences without geographical constraints.

- Creative Expression: The platform offers new ways for DJs to express their artistry, combining music with immersive visuals and interactive elements.

- Audience Engagement: Soundscape's VR platform provides a unique way for DJs to connect with fans, offering an innovative and engaging concert experience.

Soundscape's VR music platform is not just a new technology; it's a new frontier in live music and performance. For DJs, it opens up a world of possibilities for creativity, engagement, and global reach. As we step into this virtual realm, the boundaries of live performances are redefined, offering an unparalleled experience for both artists and audiences. Get ready to explore this new dimension where music and technology converge to create unforgettable moments. Priced at $39.99, Soundscape will be available for purchase and download exclusively on Steam for VR and PC on January 23, 2024.

Is This The Future? Aaron Tries out The Metaverse

Global Music Phenomenon: Afrobeats Takes the World by Storm with Spotify's Help 

What's the Buzz: Afrobeats, the vibrant and infectious music genre originating from Africa, has undeniably become a global sensation in recent years. Its rhythmic beats, soulful melodies, and distinctive sound have captured the hearts of music lovers worldwide. But what exactly played a significant role in propelling Afrobeats to international stardom? The answer lies in the strategic efforts of none other than Spotify.

What you should know:

• Spotify's On-The-Ground Work: Spotify's success in promoting Afrobeats stems from its commitment to the genre. The company has hired local staff and actively engaged with the music scene in Nigeria and other African countries. This grassroots approach has made it easier for Spotify to connect with local talent and understand the intricacies of Afrobeats.

• Empowering African Artists and Showcasing Their Success: Spotify isn't just a streaming platform for Afrobeats—it's a platform that empowers African artists and helps them gain global recognition. African artists have benefited significantly from Spotify's initiatives. In 2022 alone, Nigerian artists earned over $27 million from Spotify, demonstrating the financial opportunities Spotify provides to local talent.

• Beyond Streaming: Spotify's Commitment to Afrobeats: Spotify's dedication to Afrobeats goes beyond streaming numbers. The company invests in organizing events, workshops, album launches, and parties for music industry figures in Africa. These events not only support the growth of Afrobeats but also create a thriving ecosystem for artists to flourish.

What Does It Mean for DJs: For DJs, this global rise of Afrobeats represents a golden opportunity to diversify their playlists and keep the dance floors packed. Afrobeats' infectious rhythms and melodies can seamlessly blend into DJ sets, adding a unique flavor to the mix. With Spotify's support and the growing popularity of Afrobeats, DJs can tap into this global phenomenon to curate unforgettable sets that resonate with diverse audiences. So, next time you're behind the decks, consider adding some Afrobeats to the mix and witness the dance floor come alive with energy!

YouTube Shorts: The New Cool

What's the Buzz:

If you haven’t been utilizing shorts or you have been using a 3rd party to do it, here’s some good news. YouTube introduces new tools to reformat long-form content into Shorts in house..

What You Should Know:

• The new Shorts editing UI offers editing tools accessible via the "Remix" option.

• These tools make it easier to create standout Shorts clips without extensive reshooting or editing.

• Shorts is one of YouTube's fastest-growing content formats, with over 50 billion daily views.

• YouTube aims to highlight Shorts and boost user engagement within the app.

What Does It Mean for DJs:

• DJs can use these tools to repurpose their long-form content into engaging shorts.

• It provides an opportunity to tap into the popularity of Shorts and reach a broader audience.

• DJs with existing video assets can easily create compelling Shorts content.

• Consider incorporating Shorts into your content strategy for 2024 to enhance brand awareness and engagement.

Now Shipping: Gold DJ Necklace

By popular demand, you guys asked for upgrades on our GOLD DJ necklace and they are finally here. Now with thicker chain, upgraded connector and ready to decorate your chest to tell the world who you are.

It communicates that you're a DJ plus you know you're prepared just in case.

We only made 500 of these and already have a bunch pre-ordered so snag yours here and we'll get it out to you today/tomorrow.

Tuesday Workshop: Dance Floor Rescue Tips with DJ Pinke

Don’t front, happens to the best of us. Tonight at 8pm ET will we discover some tips to recover your dance floor when it goes limp for a spell. Click here to be a part of this special event.

Crate of The Week: Rap Dance Party 

Clif Tha Supa Producer has joined Crate Hackers and came in swinging! This latest installment of Rap Dance Party is all of the heat. Members get the crate here and you can also check out his mixcloud and hear this very crate performed.

Not a member? Click here for a 14 Day Free Trial