The Hidden Struggles of Being a DJ

The electronic dance music industry has witnessed significant growth, now valued at $10.2 billion. Despite the glamorous portrayal of DJs on social media, there's a darker side marked by stress and loneliness. The industry's competitive nature and high stakes often mean that top-tier DJs have support teams to manage their burgeoning careers, while up-and-coming ones face the challenge of navigating the industry solo, leading to grueling schedules and mental health concerns.

The High Cost of Fame

Avicii's tragic death, after publicly battling with depression and addiction, spotlighted the intense pressures DJs face. Laure Croft, an Amsterdam-based DJ who rose to fame in the club scene, has wrestled with online harassment and the addictive side of nightlife. Balancing the stressors of touring, performance anxiety, and networking has compelled her to seek professional help and abstain from drugs and alcohol during performances.

Emerging DJs and the Fight for Safety

For emerging female DJs like Rotterdam's Kimmah, the nightlife can be threatening, with experiences of harassment that have led to PTSD symptoms. To combat this, Kimmah has crafted a safety rider to ensure her wellbeing at gigs and has started a support network with peers. This action has resonated with other female and queer artists who endure similar challenges in silence.

The Long-term DJ Lifestyle

Moody Mehran, a veteran Amsterdam DJ, talks about balancing the euphoria of playing sets with the loneliness of an out-of-sync lifestyle. Constantly chasing relevance leads to forfeiting breaks and the pressure to perform without a support system in place. Mehran advocates for mental health consideration from agencies and uses therapy and community living as personal coping mechanisms.

stress, loneliness, pressure