Why we need less hyped up DJ B2Bs

The back-to-back is a long standing dynamic in DJ culture. Selectors often pair up in a way that makes sense, bringing their complementary styles and energy together in a powerful way.

However, in recent times, B2Bs with big name DJs that are created purely for the hype have become more and more common. These hyped up back-to-backs put artists together awkwardly for promotional purposes. Here’s why we need less of those…

IT SHOULD NEVER BE ABOUT HYPE
Creating an alluring marketing campaign is one thing, but building a night around shallow hype does a disservice to the artists, the ravers and the culture itself. Curating an event rooted in the notion of giving everyone involved the very best experience possible is far more valuable than superficial hype.

THEY DEVALUE THE MUSIC
Putting DJs together purely for the purpose of selling tickets, without any consideration of sonic harmony, devalues the music. Almost any circumstance when money is more of a priority than the music itself is an instant thumbs down.

IT ENCOURAGES LAZY BOOKINGS
Simply putting two big names together for the sake of sales means less opportunities for up and coming artists, while also perpetuating the damaging culture of the same acts getting booked year after year. What’s needed is more creative and encouraging booking policies.

IT’S NOT ENJOYABLE FOR THE CROWD
When a couple of DJs don’t quite harmonise, it can take a lot of work for them to get in sync. Meanwhile, the dance floor experiences a disjointed DJ set which can impact the ravers’ enjoyment of the performance.