I know of DJs that are excellent technicians. Some, and I'm being generous, are good entertainers as well. A large number of them do not fit into either category. I do NOT know of a single DJ in the Baltimore metropolitan area that fits into the category DNJ was referring to--not one. And, upon talking with several DJs that I know personally, they do NOT know of any that make more than $1,200 for a four hour wedding job--most make less than $600.

I also know a lot of really great musicians, several were Peabody trained and can play any song that was ever written. They have more musical talent in one finger than I have in all 10. However, the vast majority are NOT good entertainers. And, most cannot sing at all.

Then there is the category that a very small number fit into--musician/entertainer. Individuals that are good players, sing well, interact with their audiences and put on a great show during the entire time they're on-stage. These individuals are quite rare, in extremely high demand, frequently booked a year or more in advance and music is their full time job. It's their sole source of income, and as Don Mason has often said "I've made hundreds of dollars in the music business."

In my opinion, a DJ is NOT a musician. He or she can be an entertainer, just as someone that does not play any form of music or musical instrument, CAN be an entertainer. But first and foremost a DJ must also be a technician--a person that really knows the inner-workings of their equipment well. Are they artists? I don't think so.

Gary