Tyrone Blue's "How to Become a Professional DJ". A Book Review.

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Papa Deuce

Mac Daddy DJ
Aug 8, 2006
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Valley Forge Area
I'm guessing that most of the regulars here know of Tyrone Blue ( Larry Williams from MN ) Well, I just got my copy in the mail today. I am the featured "expert" in the section about Bubble Parties.

I am here to give you a quick review, though I admit to not having read every single page, yet.

First off, it is a spiral bound book of about 100 pages. It appears to be slightly larger than a legal page, which is good because the type size in not too small to read.... :sqwink:

The book pretty much touches on every aspect of DJing, but Tyrone's love of DMX / Lighting is quite obvious, as I would have expected. The book covers cables, lights, trussing, contracts, basic electrical theory, how to deal with guests, bubble parties.... it really runs the gamut.

I like the way that Tyrone explains technical issues. He makes almost all of it seem so simple. Most folks who are DJ's would know most of what is in the book, but I bet there is at least a tidbit or two that you could learn. This book really is intended for the beginner DJ.

Most of the MANY color photos in this book are Tyrone's own photo's though I did see some BEAUTIFUL photos from Kevin Nichols. When it comes to DJing, Kevin is the real deal. I wish I had his skills. Mad props to Kevin!

The book also serves to let readers know about other services that Tyrone offers. He builds facade kits. He sells his "Gig Bench". He has his DMX booklet that he promotes. But none of the "selling" is overdone. I think he nailed that part just right.

From beginning to end, this book hits the mark just about 100% FOR THE INTENDED AUDIENCE. Whether it applies to you is up to you. The only part of the book that I didn't love was the contract section... But that is just probably because my own contract reads much differently. Maybe you would love it. It is certainly a usable contract, IMO.

I have no idea what Tyrone is planning to charge for this book. In reality, if he starts selling these at DJ shows, I imagine it will sell for $25 - $40. If you are an aspiring DJ, and have lots to learn, I think this book is a home run. I'll say this: I have done nearly 500 events in my life, and this book did help me understand a few things.

If you are a beginner, then this is a great resource.

BTW, before anybody asks or comments, my ONLY COMPENSATION for being a part of this book is a free copy of the book, and whatever credibility I gain from being recognized as an "expert". Tyrone did offer money, and I turned it down. We never discussed how MUCH money, though. :sqerr::sqwink: Maybe I should have held out for big bucks. :sqbiggrin:

And, I was happy to help a fellow DJ that I call "my friend".
 
Hanging out with Tyrone and Kevin at MBLV09 was the highlights, for me.

Not as exciting as winning the $1100, but a close second!
 
Hanging out with Tyrone and Kevin at MBLV09 was the highlights, for me.

Not as exciting as winning the $1100, but a close second!


I didn't even recognize Tyrone in 2009... he lost all that weight and cut his hair really short.
 
Well, I am another contributor to Larry's book. I can't say any better words than Chuck has already said. Larry has done a great job with this. I would say that it is something that even a well rounded DJ should have in his collection.

Like Chuck, I received no compensation and want none. I too was willing to help out a man I consider a friend in this plus it also fulfills one of my goals of contributing to a true DJ handbook.

I have lent my copy to a fellow DJ for an unbiased review. I'll post any comments from him.
 
And honest to God, this is true and happened yesterday:

I had just gone to my PO box and I found my copy of the book had arrived. I had my daughter, Emily, with me as we were going into a grocery store. She was carrying the book. A guy walked by me as I was looking down at her. I hear "Chuck, right?"

I look up to see Larry, the owner of a day care center I performed at last year. I told him yes, that I am Chuck, the guy who did the BP last year at his school. I show him the book. He says "That's pretty darn cool. And now that you reminded me, I'll be calling to book again this year."

Now I have to find a way to tactfully mention this on my website.
 
Now I have to find a way to tactfully mention this on my website.

Go to my website to see how I've done it. Scroll down the 'About Me' page.

Congrats to all who are featured. I almost contributed, but then I got lazy and forgot. Snooze you looze. Maybe when Larry issues the 2nd edition?