Ben Newman

A relationship manager at Abbey International, Ben Newman (24)  is a keen disc jockey in his spare time.

What’s your obsession?
‘Music – specifically DJ-ing and promoting nights.’

What got you into it?
‘I think being the one lurking next to the CD player at parties started it all. Going to festivals and nights out and watching the effect DJs have on the crowd was what opened my eyes to the potential of it.’

How often do you do it?
‘I usually play out twice a week, and occasionally I’ll have a bash at home as well.’

Where do you do it?
‘I have a set-up in my living room at home and I play in Rojo twice a week. I also co-run run a night called Rocksteady at Pure and sometimes get asked to play at other people’s events, such as Kidnapped which is a personal favourite.’

Is it easy to get into?
‘Yes, even more so these days with the introduction of software. Anyone with a laptop and a couple of hundred quid can give it a bash. Getting proper gigs over here is a lot easier than in the UK for instance, as there’s a lot less competition.’

What skills do you need?
‘Most of all the desire to make people enjoy themselves, as well as a sense of timing and ideally a musical ear – something I sadly lack. Any natural musicians should find it a doddle. Oh, and lots of patience!’

Is it popular in Jersey?
Yes – and no. There is a lot of talent and some great nights, however compared to the UK we’re certainly lagging. In major cities, every other bar would have a DJ in the corner and there are thousands of up and comers, but sadly that’s not something you see over here.’

What do you like about it?
‘The fact that you can almost single-handedly influence how much someone enjoys their night out. There’s nothing like the satisfaction of seeing smiles on the dance floor. Also, from a promoter’s perspective, it’s a great way of meeting some incredibly talented and interesting people. Finally, it’s a very social activity and has led to some very funny stories.’

What do you need to do it?
‘Equipment-wise you can get away with a laptop, basic mixer and a soundsystem – a normal stereo will suffice. Or you can go down the more traditional two decks and a mixer set-up which will ultimately make you into a much better DJ. However, that will be a longer process. In these days of digital downloads it’s much easier to source good music – although the flipside to that is that there’s a lot of rubbish out there too.’

How do I get into it?
Find your style of music. This will evolve but having an idea of what you like is a good start. Go to as many club nights as you can, and don’t be afraid to ask the DJs and promoters questions. Most people will certainly have the time to talk and will be glad to offer any advice they can. Buying them a drink will always help too – mine’s a double, by the way!
Once you’re ready, start putting on parties. These can be at your house, in the back rooms of pubs – anywhere, really. When you can safely say you have a following, it’s not too hard to persuade a club owner to let you play in the back room of a club or even take on a Friday night. From there you need to promote as much as you can to build on any initial success.’

• Know anyone with an offbeat passion? Put them in touch with the jepGO… team