Whether you’re just starting your DJ journey, or weighing the difficult decision to change your existing name, this complete guide to the process has you covered.
DJ culture is all about “keeping it real”—by which we mean being authentic, humble, and all about the music. Of course, this often isn’t the reality of things, and it’s a vague value system to live by anyway. But even the most successful DJs out there still like to project these qualities.
How is “keeping it real” relevant to choosing a DJ name? Well, it can often get in the way of what’s actually a super important strategic decision. Picking any old name (or not picking one at all) because making an effort would seem too calculated or commercial can lead to complications and regrets later on.
The truth is, your DJ name influences how people perceive you. It affects your online visibility. It can even shape your opportunities. Standing out these days is very difficult, and your name is often the first impression you make.
In this article, we’ll explore the significance of your DJ name and provide strategies to help you create a memorable identity that resonates with your style and personality. We’ll also look at what to do if you’re an established DJ weighing the difficult decision of whether to change your name.
Let’s begin with an example. I’m going to use my own name here because all of the common male DJ names I could think of were already in use. Imagine seeing these names on a lineup:
Ryan Keeling
Bad Boy Garage Master
What would your first impressions be? Would the names tell you anything about these DJs? What would you presume?
We bet that Ryan Keeling brought to mind almost nothing beyond any associations you already have with the words. Of course, this isn’t to say that using your real name is a no-go; for now, it’s just an observation.
On the other hand, Bad Boy Garage Master probably set some expectation for this artist’s stage presence and musical style—namely, that he’s a bad boy, one who probably plays some form of garage, and, by his own estimation, with some level of mastery. Again, we’re not saying that your DJ name has to be this direct or literal. But you can see how both names created preconceptions.
It’s important to accept the reality that in today’s “attention economy,” people will make fast, superficial decisions about whether or not to give you attention. Your name won’t be the only determining factor in this, but it can be the difference between creating that all-important initial engagement or not. The crowded digital landscape also means that people need to easily find you. If a simple Google, social media or streaming platform search doesn’t immediately retrieve you they probably won’t try again.
Then there’s the fact that deciding to change your name at a later stage can be frustrating and labour-intensive at best, and at worst, a career-killer. This isn’t to say that being 100% happy with your DJ name forever is the goal; it’s more that doing all of the correct due diligence will at least ensure that you made the best decision you could in the moment.
Of course, anyone looking for a DJ name has a readymade solution: their given name. This is the option that plenty of the biggest DJs out there went with, and it’s easy to see why. It’s an authentic choice that those around you will already know. It utilises any existing leverage or reputation you have in your chosen market or scene. And it doesn’t require you to do much beyond the checks and due diligence that we’ll discuss later.
However, putting aside any practical considerations for using your own name, the annoying truth is that when placed in the context of a DJ lineup, many real names look boring. You can point to loads of famous examples of headline DJs using their own name, but the trouble is that we’ve collectively attached memories and meaning to these names—Carl Cox, David Guetta, Charlotte De Witte—that make the names themselves feel more appealing. In the cases of the older DJs, also remember that they got their break before the internet, a time when there were simply fewer DJs vying for people’s attention, and so in theory less need for an attention-grabbing name.
Like most parts of this process, be as honest and objective with yourself as possible. Does your own name draw attention or generate intrigue? If you’re unsure, ask straight-talking friends and family members what they think about using your real name, or jump onto a DJ forum or discussion group.
Conflicts of interest and mixed messages should also be looked at. For example, if you do a serious, public-facing day job, would you be comfortable with people coming across your DJ profile? For teachers, is it OK if students find your latest mix? You get the point here. Also, the blurring of boundaries and roles may not be an issue for you now, but it’s best to think about any possible future complications.
Many other DJs opt for an alias. This choice has several key benefits. First and foremost, an alias gives you creative freedom. You can choose a name that resonates with your musical style or persona, if that’s what you’re after. “World building” is a term that people in the music industry like to use, which describes all of the creative choices an artist makes to generate an overall vibe or impression.
Take memorable artist names like Deadmau5 or Skrillex. These aliases help maintain a sense of mystery and separate the artist’s personal life from their professional persona. (Deadmau5 even benefitted from the initial confusion over how to say his name, which got people talking about him even more.)
Arguably this separation can offer more flexibility. If you decide to shift to a different style of music, you can create a new alias or adapt your current one, while keeping your personal identity separate. If you were using your real name, a significant shift in style might be more challenging because your personal identity is directly tied to your musical brand, perhaps making it harder to leave behind or change the public’s perception of you.
The freedom to basically come up with any name also means you can test for memorability. For example, tell people around you some potential names and see which they remember days or weeks later. Living with several names for a time is like a “survival of the fittest” process, with options that in some way feel unsatisfactory gradually falling away.
Consider the fact that whatever you choose will become one, or some, of the main words in your life. You will end up saying the name many, many times, and probably quite often. Setting aside any practical considerations, decide whether it’s good enough to earn this level of real estate in your life. Do you like it enough to say it hundreds of times over the course of many years?
It’s important to also look at the downsides to using an alias. The unique name you come up with could be nice to say, but it could also be harder to find online if the name is too abstract, difficult to spell, or doesn’t rank well in search results. Building an alias can also mean trying to build a whole persona or world around it—great from a creative standpoint but this can be difficult to communicate in a world of increasingly short attention spans. Also consider that your potential musical scene or market might prefer that you “keep it real”; our hypothetical DJ from earlier, Bad Boy Garage Master, might not feel relatable enough for most wedding bookings.
You don’t necessarily need to choose between your real name or an alias before starting this process, but it will help to keep the above in mind as you go.
DJ names tend to fall into a few different categories:
– A real name
– An embellishment of a real name
– An alias of some kind
– Invented words or terms
If you prefer to incorporate your real identity, consider modifications of your name. Shortening it or combining elements of your first and last names can help maintain a connection to your identity while creating a distinctive stage name. Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, Jazzy Jeff, Fred again…, ATB—there are countless examples to be inspired by.
Halfway between using your real name and a pseudonym is adopting a name that could conceivably be your real name. Adam Richard Wiles didn’t think his name would cut it and instead went with Calvin Harris. Kim Min-ji became Peggy Gou, while Matthew Walker chose the much more flamboyant moniker Julio Bashmore.
We covered the pros and cons of aliases above, but didn’t mention some of this approach’s sub-categories.
One option to keep on the table is inventing a completely new word or words. This can be a fun way to shape your brand, and unique names often rank higher in search results. For example, Skrillex has a catchy and memorable name that doesn’t have a specific meaning, which adds to its appeal. You might also try combining two nouns randomly. This method can lead to catchy names like Knife Party, which is somehow intriguing (“Would I attend a knife party..?”) and easy to recall.
Injecting humour or absurdity can make a name more memorable too. A classic example is Eats Everything, which obviously reflects Dan Pearce’s love for food but also seems to capture his easy-going DJ spirit. There seem to have been a spate of off-the-wall names in recent years, perhaps the most (in)famous of which is HorsegiirL, whose madcap brand identity we looked at in an article called We studied DJs who are social media masters: Here’s what we learned. Simplicity can also be powerful, as seen with someone like Diplo, derived from Thomas Pentz’s childhood love of dinosaurs (it’s short for Diplodocus).
In the beginning of the process, it’s best to cast a wide net, leaving all of these options open. Note down absolutely anything that comes to mind, no matter how goofy it feels. Mentally tell yourself that you’re looking for inspiration and that you’re open to suggestions—from your subconscious mind, the people around you, the universe etc. The important thing for the time being is to not apply too many filters.
Part of this process could involve DJ name generators or ChatGPT. Name generators are fun and a little silly but could spark something, and while ChatGPT can be incredibly useful for this type of thing, there’s also the risk of being overwhelmed or misguided by its suggestions.
“ChatGPT can help you brainstorm and refine a DJ name by generating creative ideas based on your style, interests, or real name, while also suggesting unique, marketable options,” it told me. “It can help you explore different languages, themes, or wordplay, and offer variations or tweaks for simplicity and impact. ChatGPT can also assist with checking the availability of your chosen name across platforms, ensuring it’s unique and fits your brand.”
Its answer here highlights one of its drawbacks: a fact-finding mission like “checking the availability of your chosen name across platforms” doesn’t play to its strengths, so you’ll definitely need to double check anything it tells you with your own research. An article we published last year, Can ChatGPT be a groundbreaking tool for DJs and artists?, gives an introduction to, and advice on, using the platform, with a focus on marketing yourself.
Analysing existing DJ names can also provide insight into what makes a name appealing. Platforms like DJ Mag’s Top 100 DJ list or Mixcloud can be excellent resources. Additionally, databases like babynames.com allow you to look up meanings and origins, offering unique combinations. Online dictionaries can help you discover synonyms or related words.
As a suggestion, try to come up with a long list of 10 to 20 names, and do so in a defined time period so you don’t drive yourself mad—a week or two ought to do it.
It’s now time to test your names against the cold reality of the outside world. We’d suggest running your candidates through the checklist at this point in the process rather than later. Although you’re still in the sketching phase, checking the viability of names helps to eliminate options before you grow too attached to them. It’s also a quick way of whittling a list of, say, 20 names down to a more manageable size.
Using the checklist as part of the initial process makes some sense, but we think that letting your imagination initially run wild can lead to more interesting results. For example, the weird word that came to you in the shower might not make it through the checklist on its own, but you might find it works perfectly in combination with your real first name.
The checklist covers the more cultural and viral stuff, and we’ll then look at the search and internet-related criteria. So…
A quick word on spelling and pronunciation. These are relative questions; at the risk of stating the obvious, what’s difficult for people in one country to pronounce or spell won’t be the same in another country. The advice here isn’t that DJs should anglicise their names, but more that it’s generally good practice to consider the linguistics of your potential names. As much as possible, consider how your name could be reasonably interpreted by people from other countries and cultures, regardless of your personal intentions.
Once you have a list of names that pass all (or at least some) of the checklist, try living with it for a week or so. Put it somewhere you can see it and casually (but regularly) return to it. It can be amazing how, given a little time and separation from ideas, the mind becomes a cutthroat editor, immediately showing you what’s working and what isn’t.
Get feedback from friends. Say the names out loud. Type out imaginary DJ lineups with the names included. Run a poll on your WhatsApp groups. How does it feel when other people call you by this name? Does it feel right, almost like a nickname? Or do you wince a bit? Whatever you go with, it should feel good when people actually refer to you by this name. If you cringe every time someone calls you Bad Boy Garage Master, it’s probably not the right choice.
Once you’ve got a smaller list of potential names that you feel pretty happy with, it’s now vital to validate your choices to avoid any potential conflicts or confusion down the line. Depending on your relationship with disappointment, you might want to run these tests earlier in the process—just make sure you don’t skip them.
The Google test
Start by searching for your chosen names on Google. This step will help you see if anyone else is using it, and is crucial to check for any negative associations linked to the name. Look out for other DJs, businesses, or even notorious individuals that might overshadow your brand.
The website/domain test
Next, check if the domain name (preferably the .com) is available. Having a matching domain for your DJ name is critical for establishing a cohesive online presence.
The social media test
Visit major social media platforms and search for your potential DJ names. Ensure that your name isn’t already taken or overly similar to another account.
The music platforms test
Check platforms specific to DJs and producers, like Mixcloud, Discogs, SoundCloud, Resident Advisor, and Beatport. Then check more general music platforms like YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music etc. We’d advise not skipping any of these platforms: you never know if, for whatever, a DJ or producer has decided to only have a profile on one of the platforms.
We should add that it’s probably OK if someone, somewhere, once had the same DJ name. The main thing is you won’t be actually confused with someone else. If the name you want is “taken” but it’s by an early ’90s DJ who released two records in a different genre, you’re probably fine. But if there’s someone with your name who is vaguely in your world and they have upcoming gigs, that will be a no-go.
How is that list now looking?
If you’ve followed all of the above steps and are now down to a single name—congratulations. Go ahead and have a long and rewarding DJ career.
The more likely situation is that you’re still kicking around a few names and are starting to feel slightly stressed about it. This is completely normal. While it’s a lot of pressure knowing that the name will follow you around indefinitely, there’s only so much you can do before ultimately taking a leap of faith. If you made a rational decision based on your current thoughts and feelings and the best information you have available, you can’t really ask more of yourself.
However, there is an exercise that might help, one that we came across in Creative Quest, a guide to living a creative life by the respected musical polymath Questlove. He explains that early in his career, before he started working on a record with his band, Roots, he would imagine the album’s eventual review in Rolling Stone. He would try to think as the critic, describing standout moments and the feelings the music created. “If you’re a writer, imagine the blurbs that will be on the paperback,” he went on. “If you’re a painter, imagine what people will say when they’re standing in front of your canvas.”
Or if you’re a DJ trying to decide on a name, imagine people saying these possible names as they walk past a poster showing you headlining at your favourite venue or event. Visioning, manifesting—whatever you call it, the idea is that you imagine a fantastic possible future and work backwards from it.
You’ve now come down from the mountain with your dazzling new DJ name in hand, so it’s time to lock everything in.
Reserve your preferred website domain address
Once you’re happy with your chosen name, purchase the domain as quickly as possible to ensure no one else snatches it up. Look for reliable domain registration services and secure your online identity.
Reserve all the different accounts
Go back to social media and reserve your handles on all platforms where you plan to engage with fans. Even if you’re not ready to start promoting yourself, securing your name everywhere is a smart move. Consistent branding across platforms is essential for easy recognition and promotion.
While choosing a DJ name is important, it is just the first step to getting yourself set up. We’re going to look at things like brand building, writing a biography, and taking press photos in the near future, but for now give yourself some credit for clearing a first major hurdle. Or is the first hurdle learning to DJ…? Don’t forget to do that as well.
We’re going to finish by looking at what to do if you’re already an established DJ and are looking, for whatever reason, to change your name.
If you’ve been DJing under a particular name for a while but feel like it no longer represents you or your style, changing your DJ name can be a fresh start. However, it’s a significant decision that requires careful consideration, as it can affect your brand identity, fanbase, and online presence. Here are some suggestions for how to approach it.
Evaluate why you want to change
Start by reflecting on the reasons for wanting a new name. Are you shifting musical genres? Has your style or persona evolved? Or maybe your current name isn’t resonating with your audience the way you’d like? Clarifying your reasons can help ensure that the new name aligns with your goals.
Consider the impact on your brand
If you’ve built a reputation, changing your DJ name can create confusion among your fans and followers. You’ll need to strategize how to transition smoothly, so you don’t lose the audience you’ve cultivated. Consider whether the change will alienate your current fanbase or open you up to new audiences.
Communicate with your fans and followers
Once you decide on a new name, it’s crucial to communicate the change clearly with people. Use social media, email newsletters, and other channels to explain the reasons behind the shift. Frame it as an exciting evolution of your artistry or career, and engage your followers in the journey to help them embrace the change.
Update your online presence
Ensure that your new name is consistent across all digital platforms. This includes your social media handles, streaming profiles, websites, and DJ/producer platforms like Mixcloud and SoundCloud. Ideally, try to reserve your new name’s handles across all platforms before announcing the change to avoid losing key usernames.
Rebrand your visual identity
If your DJ name change comes with a shift in your sound or style, consider updating your logo, typography, and visual branding. This can be an opportunity to reintroduce yourself with a fresh, cohesive image that aligns with your new name and direction.
Transition slowly if necessary
Depending on how established you are, it might be helpful to transition gradually. You could start by introducing the new name alongside the old one, e.g., “DJ X, formerly known as DJ Y,” to help fans adjust. Over time, you can phase out the old name entirely.
Prepare for setbacks
Changing your DJ name can sometimes lead to short-term confusion or a drop in engagement. Be prepared for this and stay consistent with your messaging and branding to rebuild momentum. It might take time, but if the new name truly represents your vision, the long-term benefits will hopefully outweigh the initial challenges.
