What it takes to nail a marathon DJ set in 5 steps (with Hernan Cattaneo)

In today’s DJ culture, the extended set has almost become a novelty. It’s a rarity in an age where shorter sets, for shorter attention spans, are generally the norm. However, when DJ culture first started to emerge, one DJ would typically play all night long without question.

Argentinian maestro @djhernancattaneo is renowned for his marathon sets. In fact, he never plays less than two hours, usually a minimum of three or four, and has played for as long as 24 hours. Here he describes some of the key steps for nailing a marathon set…

PREPARATION IS VITAL

Like a footballer, there’s a need to train every day: Listening to your music, new and old, and getting to know it intimately. Then organising your music into folders and having a good variety of styles, from the warm up to peak time and close, will help a lot.

BE FLEXIBLE

You might have a signature style as a DJ, but always be willing to push the limits of what fits into your personal style. Being flexible and incorporating a wider selection of music is key to a longer set.

RELAX & GO WITH THE FLOW

Inexperience can lead to feelings of stress or overwhelm. Playing for such a long time can be daunting, but try to breathe and relax. Confidence is important, because you never know what’s going to happen…

PATIENCE IS ESSENTIAL

Playing for several hours means there may be times when the crowd goes through a lull or doesn’t respond as the DJ would like, but you need to stay strong and patient because it really is about the journey and not the destination. Playing bangers too early will limit your impact later on.

BE MINDFUL OF YOUR PHYSICAL HEALTH

No matter how much energy comes from the crowd, tiredness or perhaps achy limbs can occur at some point. Simple stretches, staying hydrated (with electrolytes too) and maybe if you can get a booth buddy to give you a massage, will all help to see you through to the end.