Back in 2008, a famous DJ brought out a book. The DJ in question is Danny Rampling and the name of the book was Everything You Need to Know About DJing & Success. Now - as long as it lives up to its title - that sounds like the kind of book every budding DJ/producer/promoter/music industry wannabe needs right? So why are we only talking about it now?
It’s a pertinent question. The fact is that the book was initially released as a downloadable e-book, but in the last 18 months or so the response has been so good that it has now being given a proper physical release.
“The book idea was born at an internet marketing seminar explains Danny “where I met my business partners Jerry Frempong and Ben Brophy. We have now achieved an ambition most people can only dream about. I’m totally delighted and very proud the book is now to be hard published internationally” he smiles.
It’s easy to see why. After a career of nearly unparalleled success and the accolade of being one of the first ‘superstar’ DJs, there is clearly a lot of wisdom and experience that Rampling would be able to pass on to those aiming to follow in his footsteps. However, creating a text that would allow some of that wealth of experience to be easily absorbed by others was no easy task, and it wasn’t just his own past he was plundering. “We spent just over six months initially compiling and writing the project and subsequently we've been adding further information to the hard copy version, set to be released September 2010” continues Danny. “On release, every copy of the book will include a bonus DVD of hugely inspiring interviews from leading DJ industry figures including Pete Tong, Joey Negro, David Morales and many other successful people sharing priceless experience tips information”.
Widely credited as one of the founders of the UK dance scene, Danny’s legacy in dance music has been well documented, from his early work at London’s Shoom club pioneering the acid house sound through his radio show on Kiss FM in the 90’s that brought the new sound to an unexpecting – and later rapturous – audience, right up to his 2005 retirement…and subsequent retirement from that retirement. “DJing music is my life” he responds when asked about the reversal of his decision. “I needed a change at the time for many personal reasons. My mentor coach Keith Cunningham subsequently encouraged me to get back to doing what I do best and love. It was the right decision for sure; music is so strong creative at present and there’s an abundance of excellent music from all genres. It’s an exciting time!”
Such sentiments from a guy who clearly knows a thing or two about house music is encouraging, especially when so many can only mourn the death of creativity and lament the passing of the ‘back in the day’ days. But will it really ever be as fresh and exciting as it was 20 years back? Danny response is certainly positive, if a little evasive. “The initial wave core scene was a revolutionary time for dance music, filled with new excitement as a new musical form emerged. It completely transformed youth culture. I feel clubs and music is as exciting as you make it. I go to a club to enjoy music dance celebrate life like most people. At present, music is rocking and the dance scene has become a huge industry filled with opportunity as a career path for so many people. The industry continues to surprise and evolve; it’s a positive experience that continues to change so many people’s lives for the better worldwide.”
Returning to the book, who does Rampling see as the kind of people who need it in their lives? “The book has wide appeal to anybody, including those outside of the DJ industry who desire to be successful. We have provided a wealth of DJ coaching information coupled with chapters on the psychology of success. If you desire to be successful, it’s important learn from people who have created success in their given professions.” So – as a taster – what would be single best piece of advice Danny could give? “Have unbreakable ambitious desire, that you will become a leading DJ or successful in whatever career you have chosen. It can be a long challenging road to the top so stay with it when it gets difficult, which it will. Every leading DJ today started at the back of the line, no one goes straight to the top. As leading business coach Keith Cunningham says get in line, stay in line!” he laughs.
It’s a philosophy Danny knows well, one that he has been living his whole life. Looking back on what can only be described as a glittering career, would he change anything? Does he have any regrets? “’Regrets I've had a few but then again, too few to mention.’” he chuckles. “I guess way back when I could have been more business, rather than partying hard. Life is not to be filled with regret, if one makes a mistake learn from it and move on with the knowledge to not repeat. Simple!”
Words: Greg Sawyer
For more information, sample chapters and to buy Everything You Need to Know About Djing & Success – click here
