How street DJs take raving back to its roots

Over the past few years several DJs have gone mobile and taken their craft to the streets in a variety of ways. From DJ On A Bike, Dom Whiting, to DJ AG on the streets of London, a generation of selectors have become successful from playing music in public. 

These DJs saw an opportunity to do something different, to get out there in their local communities and to gain momentum via social media. Although, some local councils have made life hard for them with health & safety, apparent “anti social” behaviour and noise at the top of their complaints lists. 

The success of these DJs taps into a few key pillars of what makes rave culture so great in the first place. DJ AG especially is often called a “people’s champion” for his work. Here’s how street DJs take raving back to its roots.

THEIR WORK IS ROOTED IN COMMUNITY
Rather than perform at ticketed events, these DJs democratise the artform by playing in public for free which brings people together. AG often offers up the mic to anyone who wants to sing, rap or MC, giving everyday people a chance to be seen and heard. 

THEY CULTIVATE UNITY
When a DJ is performing on the streets, they naturally attract a crowd. People gather in their locality, connect with one another and a strong feeling of unity pervades. This unified energy is crucial to rave culture. 

IT’S NOT ABOUT THE MONEY
Ticket prices can often be a barrier to entry, especially with so many people today struggling financially. By bringing their music to the streets, these performers make DJing accessible to anyone, not just those that can afford to buy a ticket. 

THEIR WORK IS GRASSROOTS
A fundamental element of rave culture, that has been eroded of late, is the DIY and grassroots communities. By taking it back to the streets, these DJs promote and encourage the grassroots aspect of rave culture, which is vital to its progress.