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Your 2025 DJ Toolkit: Game Changing Strategies and Updates
We may be the only people not talking about speaker size but we are here. From music trends to the latest portable gear and Instagram algorithm hacks, this week’s edition is all about helping you stay ahead, work smarter, and elevate your DJ game. Let’s dive in!


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9 Music Trends DJs Need To Watch in 2025

The music industry in 2025 is coming in hot with trends that are as unpredictable as your Wi-Fi during a livestream. Native Instruments has outlined what’s shaping the scene this year, and we’ve distilled the essentials for DJs who want to stay relevant (and avoid becoming a “retro act” too soon). Here are the 9 trends to keep on your radar:
The Rise of Genre Fluidity
Genres are officially canceled. In 2025, listeners are embracing tracks that blend styles, moods, and vibes. As a DJ, this means your next set might include a smooth transition from deep house to Celtic trap—and the crowd will love it.
A Renaissance of Physical Music Formats
Vinyl is still spinning strong, and now cassettes are worming their way back into our hearts (and tape decks). DJs: dust off those turntables and start hunting for that limited-edition vinyl nobody knows about yet. It’s hipster gold.
The AI Revolution in Music Creation
AI is no longer stealing jobs—it’s helping you do yours better. From generating melodies to remixing tracks, AI is the co-producer you didn’t know you needed. Just don’t let it name your album; it’ll probably suggest something like “Synthwave Algorithms 2.0.”
Personalized Music Consumption
Your audience wants tracks that match their exact mood—whether it’s “energetic but not too happy” or “mellow but I still want to move.” DJs, it’s time to start reading the room like a psychic (or just make great use of smart playlists).
Advancements in Live Performance Technology
Live shows are going full sci-fi with tools like live looping, immersive visuals, and on-the-fly sampling. If your next gig doesn’t look like a mini Coachella, you’re missing out on some very jealous Instagram stories.
Exploration of 3D Audio and Spatial Sound
Want your audience to feel like the bassline is crawling through their spine? Spatial sound and 3D audio are making that dream (or nightmare) a reality. Just be prepared for a few “WHAT WAS THAT?!” reactions.
The Boom of the Home Studio
Remember when home studios were just a laptop and some headphones? Now, they’re pro-grade production hubs. If your garage isn’t doubling as a recording studio, are you even a DJ in 2025?
Increased Use of Blockchain in the Music Industry
Blockchain isn’t just for crypto bros anymore. It’s helping artists track royalties, sell NFTs, and manage rights. Who knew your next setlist could come with a side of decentralized finance?
Monetizing Music in New Ways
Between subscriptions, exclusive content, and fan-driven platforms, there are more ways than ever to make money. Just don’t be the DJ charging $10 for a “behind-the-scenes” video of your cat sitting on your mixer (unless your cat is REALLY good).
Why DJs Should Care:
These trends aren’t just about keeping up—they’re about leveling up. Whether you’re experimenting with AI, diving into 3D audio, or selling your first NFT remix, 2025 is all about pushing boundaries and finding new ways to connect with your audience.
Let’s face it: if you’re not adapting, you’re falling behind. Stay ahead of the game and embrace these trends for your best year yet.

What’s the most important tool for your DJ business in 2025? |
In last week’s TikTok Poll, 73% of you responded “I Don’t Use TikTok”
Instagram Previews “Edits”. A New Video Editing App To Rival Capcut

As TikTok’s future in the U.S. hangs in the balance, its popular companion app CapCut could face similar challenges. Enter Instagram’s new standalone video editing app, Edits, Meta’s attempt to fill the potential gap and give creators an all-in-one tool for polished content. As reported by Social Media Today, this app might be the perfect solution for creators looking to stay ahead—especially if TikTok (and CapCut) are banned.
What Is Edits?
• Built for Reels: Optimized for Instagram’s short-form video format, Edits offers a seamless transition for creators used to TikTok-style content.
• Advanced Editing Tools: Features include multi-track editing, transitions, filters, and captioning, making it a direct competitor to CapCut.
• Easy Music Integration: With Meta’s library of licensed tracks, adding the perfect song to your videos has never been simpler.
Why DJs and Creators Should Care:
• Future-Proof Your Content: If TikTok and CapCut go away, Edits provides a reliable alternative to keep your video workflow intact.
• Level Up Your Reels: With Edits, you can create professional-looking videos that align perfectly with Instagram’s algorithm.
• Efficiency Meets Quality: Save time while producing high-quality content that stands out, whether it’s gig recaps, tutorials, or promo clips.
The Bigger Picture:
With TikTok’s potential ban looming, Meta is positioning itself to absorb creators and their content needs. Edits plans to offer a convenient, feature-packed solution for producing short-form videos, especially for creators and DJs who rely on polished visuals to connect with their audience.

Understanding Instagram’s Content Ranking in 2025
We’ve been tuning into your feedback, and many of you have asked for more insights on social media algorithms. Unlike other newsletters, we prioritize your requests to keep you ahead of the curve. Today, we’re diving into how Instagram ranks content in 2025, based on insights from Future Social.Instagram’s algorithm determines which posts appear in users’ feeds, focusing on two primary types of reach:
1. Connected Reach: Content shown to your followers.
2. Unconnected Reach (Recommendations): Content suggested to users who don’t follow you.
The algorithm evaluates content based on key engagement metrics:
• Average Watch Time: The duration viewers spend watching your videos.
• Likes Per Reach: The ratio of likes relative to the number of viewers.
• Sends Per Reach: How often viewers share your content via direct messages.
For content viewed by your followers (Connected Reach), the algorithm prioritizes likes over shares. Conversely, for content recommended to non-followers (Unconnected Reach), shares are more influential than likes.
Actionable Strategies for DJs and Creators
To enhance your content’s visibility on Instagram:
• Create Engaging Content: Focus on producing high-quality videos that captivate your audience, encouraging them to watch longer and engage more.
• Encourage Likes and Shares: Prompt your followers to like and share your posts to boost both connected and unconnected reach.
• Monitor Performance: Regularly analyze your content’s performance to understand what resonates with your audience and refine your strategy accordingly.
By aligning your content strategy with these insights, you can effectively navigate Instagram’s algorithm and expand your reach in 2025.
We’re committed to providing the information you need to succeed in the ever-evolving social media landscape. Keep the feedback coming, and let us know what topics you’d like us to explore next.
DJControl Mix Ultra - Small Mixer, Big Impact
While everyone at NAMM was busy arguing over speakers that are somehow even bigger, Hercules quietly dropped the DJControl Mix Ultra, a tiny, battery-powered mixer that’s stealing the spotlight for its portability and power. It’s proof that you don’t need to go big to make a big impression.
Why the DJControl Mix Ultra is Turning Heads:
• Ultra-Portable Design: This thing is smaller than some laptops, making it perfect for gigs where space is limited or for your battery powered wedding ceremonies.
• Battery-Powered Freedom: No outlet? No problem. The Mix Ultra runs on a rechargeable battery, so you can mix anywhere, from rooftops to beach parties.
• Wireless Connectivity: Pair it with your smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth and mix directly from the Djay app and use the built in Neural Mix technology to separate stems on the fly. Minimal setup, maximum fun.
• Full-Featured Controls: Don’t let its size fool you. It comes packed with jog wheels, volume faders, EQ knobs, and even a crossfader—everything you need to craft a killer set.
Why DJs Are Talking About It:
At a time when gear seems to be getting bigger, louder, and heavier (looking at you, EV), the DJControl Mix Ultra is a breath of fresh air. It’s small enough to fit in your backpack but powerful enough to handle professional mixing, making it ideal for mobile DJs, casual mixers, or anyone tired of hauling a full setup to every gig.
Who It’s For:
• Mobile DJs: Perfect for gigs on the go—because who has time to fight over limited outlet space?
• Beginner DJs: With its intuitive layout, it’s a great entry point for those just starting out.
• DJs Who Love a Challenge: Think you need a full-sized setup to deliver a killer performance? The Mix Ultra dares you to prove otherwise.
The Big Picture:
The Hercules DJControl Mix Ultra is a reminder that sometimes, less really is more. Whether you’re looking for a backup mixer, an ultra-portable solution, or just something to mix with at impromptu parties, this tiny powerhouse has you covered.
At NAMM, the buzz might’ve been about speakers you need a forklift for, but the DJControl Mix Ultra shows that good things really do come in small packages.
Take Your DJ Business To The Next Level With DJ Event Planner
In this episode, Aaron & Dom dive into the game-changing benefits of DJ Event Planner, the ultimate tool for DJs juggling multiple gigs. Whether you’re managing over 100 weddings a year or just want to simplify your planning process, this software is a must-have for staying organized and professional.
🎧 What We Cover:
• How DJ Event Planner integrates seamlessly with Serato and Virtual DJ.
• Real-time updates, planning forms, and managing API keys.
• Why this tool is the perfect replacement for notepads and spreadsheets.
If you’re ready to save time and streamline your workflow, we’ve got you covered. Check out our exclusive 7-day trial at Crate Hackers and see the difference for yourself!

Each week, we spotlight a Crate that can be found in the CrateHackers App
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