Have you ever wondered where the term “disc jockey” came from? It turns out, the history of DJs and DJ epquipment is quite long and interesting. Take a look at the evolution of the disc jockey in the infographic below, and note some of the major evolutionary milestones.
The first radio playlist was born created by 16 year-old Ray Newby using a spark transmitter. After the popularity of streaming radio music, “Juke Joints” became popular which played pre-recorded music set lists so visitors could dance.
The first use of the phrase “Disc jockey” was used to describe someone who changed the records for the radio by Walter Winchell. The first DJ dance party was held in the UK. The French hall “Discotheque,” started the trend of using two turntables for a DJ.
Teens around the world started collecting their own sound systems to play radio music. The first “Top 40” music list was born. DJ equipment goes high-tech, with products specifically made for the use of broadcasting DJ music on the radio and at parties and events.
The first music created with a turntable was invented. In 1975, “scratching” was invented by DJ Grand Wizard Theodore. In 1977, the first Disco Bible was released to help DJs string songs together easily.
Records give way to Compact Discs (CDs). Rave music and parties become popular. In 1998, the first MP3 player is released. Software and digital-based DJing starts. Virtual DJs become popular. Wireless DJing becomes popular. More software and technology remove the actual “disc” element from the DJ experience.
The history of the DJ is quite long and interesting. As technology progresses, the techniques, change, but it is likely that the ability to create, mix, and play pre-recorded music will always be an important part of the musical experience. Find out more about this exciting music style with our infographic!
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