In one of the modules of our free Learn To DJ course, we talk about some core skills you need to be a good DJ, and I identify one of those as understanding what a “dancefloor moment” is. You know what I’m talking about – that gorgeous second where music, lights and atmosphere all come together and just sweep over you. I’m betting you can remember the first time it happened to you – and to start the ball rolling, I’m going tell you mine.
I was 11 years old. All dressed up in my corduroy trousers, screen-printed vintage car button-down shirt and NHS specs (you need to British and of a certain age to understand that last one), I was driven down to the under-12s disco at our local community centre by my mum, along with Stu, my 9-year-old brother. An hour later, high on sugar from the spacedust-flecked candy bars they sold at the “bar”, I found myself in the darkened main room, in my favourite position in front of the right-hand loudspeaker, when the DJ (no older than 17 himself) put on “Kings of the Wild Frontier” by post-punk pop band Adam and The Ants.
As soon as the African tribal drums that start the record – played by two drummers, no less – kicked in, I felt the bass in my stomach, the rhythm take over my head and senses, and became completely lost in pounding rhythms for the first time in my young life.
And I can honestly say that I’ve held that memory in my heart ever since as one of my pivotal life moments.
It was 30 years ago now, and I’ve had half a lifetime of wonderful dancefloor moments ever since, but hey, you never forget your first time. I’m a DJ because of moments like that – and I’m betting for the same reason, you can remember your first time, too.
So – what was your first dancefloor moment? What song was playing? How old were you? How did it change your life? I’d love you to share your experiences in the comments.
Phil Morse
