We recently connected with Erkan Yavas and have shared our conversation below.
Erkan, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Have you been able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen? Was it like that from day one? If not, what were some of the major steps and milestones and do you think you could have sped up the process somehow knowing what you know now?
As a DJ or producer, earning a full-time living from my creative work requires a combination of dedication, persistence, and a strategic approach. To achieve this, I believe in following these key steps:
Firstly, it’s crucial to define my brand as my name and develop a unique sound that sets me apart from others in the industry. I take the time to explore different genres, experiment with my style, and refine my artistic vision. This helps me establish a recognizable brand and sound that attracts a dedicated fan base and potential opportunities.
In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is essential. I create a professional website and optimize my social media profiles to showcase my work, upcoming releases, and performances. Platforms like SoundCloud, Mixcloud, and YouTube are great for sharing my music and mixes. I engage with my audience regularly by responding to comments and messages, and I also maintain a mailing list to keep my fans updated.
Collaboration and networking are potent tools for DJs and producers. I connect with fellow artists, vocalists, and instrumentalists to collaborate on tracks or live performances. Collaborations expose me to new audiences and open doors to new opportunities. Attending industry events, music conferences, and local gigs allows me to meet professionals in the industry, build genuine relationships, and gain valuable advice.
Releasing music is crucial for establishing myself as an artist and generating income. I release singles or EPs on digital platforms like Bandcamp, Beatport, Spotify, and Apple Music. Joining a reputable record label can enhance my credibility and provide exposure. I also explore licensing opportunities for my tracks in commercials, movies, or video games. Additionally, I monetize my performances and interact with fans through streaming services like Twitch.
To ensure a sustainable income, I offer DJ lessons, produce custom tracks for clients, and provide mixing and mastering services. I explore opportunities to perform at corporate events, weddings, Night clubs, and private parties. Building a strong reputation and a diverse portfolio of services helps me maintain a stable income while pursuing my artistic endeavors.
Continual skill development and education are vital as a DJ or producer. I continually hone my skills and stay updated with the latest industry trends and technologies. Experimenting with new software, hardware, and techniques allows me to expand my creative possibilities. I attend workshops, seminars, and online courses to enhance my production, mixing, and mastering skills. Constant learning and growth set me apart from the competition and ensure my work remains fresh and relevant.
In conclusion, earning a full-time living from my creative work as a DJ or producer is attainable with dedication, persistence, and a strategic approach. Defining my brand, building an online presence, collaborating and networking, releasing music strategically, diversifying income streams, and continually investing in my skills are key elements of this journey. With these strategies and a bit of entrepreneurial spirit, I am confident in transforming my passion into a fulfilling and sustainable career as a DJ or producer.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
Hello everyone! I’m DJ Erkan Yavas, and I’ve had an incredible journey of DJing. It all began when I was just nine years old, recording my first mixtape from the radio using our family’s double-deck Sony stereo. I would carefully select songs from various radio stations, edit out the DJs, and even record my own voice-overs to create my own amateur radio show on tape. Those early experiences ignited my passion for audio production and DJing.
At the age of 16, I had a remarkable opportunity to visit a famous radio station in Istanbul, where I met a popular and influential DJ at the time. She invited me to record my first jingle for one of the biggest radio stations in the country. This was a significant moment for me as it marked the first unforgettable memory in my career. Back then, radio personalities and shows were a primary source of entertainment and pop culture.
In the early 2000s, I started working as a producer at the Selcuk University radio station, which eventually led me to a job at the Hilton Hotel nightclub as a DJ assistant. I paid my dues, learning the ropes and gaining valuable experience. Eventually, I secured my first residency at the Hilton nightclub, and my career started to take off.
One of the highlights of my early career was playing nightly gigs at the Selcuk University Summer Festival, performing in front of an audience of approximately 60,000 to 70,000 people. During one of those performances, a producer from Best FM in Istanbul noticed me and offered me a role as a producer, programmer, and DJ with my own show. This opportunity opened doors for me to perform at various prominent radio stations such as Virgin Radio, Capitol Radio, and Power FM.
As my career progressed, I had the privilege of playing the main stage at events like the Formula 1 Turkish Grand Prix Coca-Cola stage and the GQ Men of the Year Award Ceremony. I also had the honor of warming up opening sets for renowned artists such as Blondie, Justin Bieber, Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Blondie, and major Turkish pop stars of that time, including Tarkan, Kenan Dogulu, Gulsen, and Serdar Ortac.
In 2018, I embarked on a new chapter in my career by applying for a special VISA for US Citizenship that granted green cards based on “extraordinary ability and special/unique talent.” This EB-1 VISA allowed me to come to New York and build my brand and business in the vibrant Manhattan music scene.
To further develop my skills and knowledge, I enrolled in NYU and the Clive Davis Institute’s Music Essential program. This program equipped me with the tools and insights to develop my music brand from the ground up. I learned about producing my own records, effective marketing strategies, and the business side of the industry.
By February 2020, I made the move to Los Angeles to focus on my own work. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, I remained dedicated to producing, remixing, and releasing new music. Some notable works include the “Advice” remix by Buel, “The Hanging Tree” by Erkan Yavas and Can Canel (from The Hunger Games Original Motion Picture Soundtrack), and my cover of “Don’t Give Up” by Groove Armada.
What sets me apart from others in the industry is my diverse background, extensive experience, and ability to seamlessly blend genres. My sound is a fusion of various musical influences, resulting in a unique and captivating style. I aim to create memorable experiences for my clients and listeners, adapting to different atmospheres and preferences.
I take great pride in the connections I’ve formed with my clients, followers, and fans. Their support and the incredible experiences we’ve shared are truly meaningful to me. I want potential clients, and followers, to know that when they choose me as a DJ they’re selecting an artist who is deeply passionate about music and dedicated to delivering exceptional performances and experiences. I bring a wealth of experience, an innovative approach to mixing genres, and a commitment to creating unforgettable moments through my music.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist, both as a DJ and music producer, is the ability to connect with people through my music. Music has a unique power to evoke emotions, bring people together, and create memorable experiences. Being able to craft a set or produce a track that resonates with someone on a deep level and seeing the impact it has on them is incredibly fulfilling.
As a DJ, there’s nothing quite like the energy and connection that forms between me and the audience when I’m behind the decks. The shared experience of dancing and celebrating to the music I play creates a sense of unity and joy that is truly special. Witnessing people lose themselves in the music, creating a momentary escape from their worries, and seeing smiles on their faces is an indescribable feeling.
Furthermore, being an artist allows me to constantly learn and grow. The music industry is ever-evolving, and staying at the forefront of trends and technologies keeps me on my toes. Pushing my own boundaries, experimenting with new sounds and techniques, and continually developing my skills is both challenging and rewarding. It enables me to evolve as an artist and maintain a fresh and dynamic approach to my craft.
Ultimately, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the ability to touch people’s lives through music. Whether it’s bringing joy, comfort, inspiration, or a sense of connection, knowing that my art has made a positive impact on someone else is truly humbling and serves as a constant reminder of why I do what I do.
Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?
I’ve been fortunate to come across several resources that have greatly influenced my management and entrepreneurial thinking within the electronic music industry. These resources have provided valuable insights and guidance on navigating the music business and developing a successful career. Here are a few that have made a significant impact on me:
“All You Need to Know About the Music Business” by Donald S. Passman: This book is considered a must-read for anyone in the music industry. It provides a comprehensive overview of the music business, covering topics such as contracts, royalties, copyright, and marketing. It has helped me better understand the intricacies of the industry and make informed decisions.
“The Artist’s Guide to Success in the Music Business” by Loren Weisman: This book offers practical advice and strategies for artists looking to navigate the music industry. It covers topics like branding, marketing, networking, and building a sustainable music career. The insights shared in this book have helped shape my entrepreneurial mindset and approach to managing my music brand.
“How to DJ Right: The Art and Science of Playing Records” by Frank Broughton and Bill Brewster: This book provides comprehensive insights into the art of DJing, covering topics such as selecting and mixing tracks, reading the crowd, building a set, and the history and culture of DJing.
“Last Night a DJ Saved My Life: The History of the Disc Jockey” by Bill Brewster and Frank Broughton: This book explores the fascinating history of DJs and their impact on music and nightlife. It delves into the evolution of DJing, the rise of different genres, and the stories behind legendary DJs.
“The History of House Music” by Jesse Saunders: This book provides an in-depth look at the origins and evolution of house music. It explores the Chicago and New York house scenes, key DJs and producers, and the cultural and social impact of the genre.
“Our House: The Stories of House Music” by Chris Llewellyn: This book features interviews and stories from DJs, producers, and industry insiders, providing a firsthand account of the history and culture of house music. It offers personal insights and anecdotes that shed light on the genre’s development.
Industry Conferences and Seminars: Attending industry conferences, seminars, and workshops has been instrumental in my growth as an artist and entrepreneur. These events provide opportunities to learn from industry experts, gain insights into the latest trends, and network with like-minded individuals. They have helped me stay updated with the rapidly evolving music landscape and provided valuable connections within the industry.
It’s important to note that while these resources have significantly influenced my thinking and philosophy, the electronic music industry is constantly evolving. Therefore, it’s essential to continue exploring new resources, staying up to date with industry developments, and adapting my strategies and approaches accordingly. The key is to maintain a continuous learning mindset and leverage the knowledge gained to thrive in this dynamic and ever-changing field.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.erkanyavas.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/erkanyvas