I think it's interesting to hear the differences in perspective of the replies. There is not only a love for the music that is required but a love for the craft. I heard my first live scratch at 5 years old. I live 15 minutes from where some of the greatest mc's and dj's cut their teeth. I remember when clue tapes were sold by him out of his book bag after he came from school. But I also remember being the youngest dude in the booth beggin to be let on the tables, marking my records with sharpies getting high off em till 3 am and I didn't own my own tables I had to go to my mans house to practice. Paying dues is a large reason why so many great dj's are great. To be considered a DJ the artform must be appreciated. The slow journey of learning the insight and skills of those who came before must also be acknowleged. If neither of those things has been done then why not just play disco. We are the heart and soul of the party so if we cold then so is the party. DJing is not only a business nor should we let it be. The requirements of knowing fundamentals and technique is necessary. But you have to have the heart to be able to feel the people around you and drop the last record they expect to hear but the first record they're going to remember for the rest of the night. A good DJ can blend music, a great DJ can make you dance when you can't stand anymore.
