Eris Drew & Octo Octa’s Philosophy of DJing

DJing is not always about switching from one track to another, it’s an art form that blends technical skill, deeply personal aesthetics, and community. Discerning the truth that breaking into the scene as an aspiring DJ with barriers to knowledge and access can appear to be overwhelming, Eris Drew and Octo Octa created Hot n’ Ready DJ Tips, Tricks, & Techniques—a guide designed to illustrate the unique picture of the DJ world and provide both beginners and experienced artists with invaluable insights. 

When we were both learning to be musicians and DJs, we found a lot of barriers to knowledge and technical craft. We created this guide to share knowledge that we have learned and to also help push forward information that people taught us along the way. Our hope is that this information helps to show DJing as both an art form for individual expression, but also as a craft that has a lot of technical knowledge that can help you achieve your goals. Community can be built when you get together and teach each other, so take this information and share it along with what you've learned.
With love,
Maya & Eris

T4T LUV NRG: A Label with Love

Eris Drew began DJing in the 1990s, playing at small parties, raves, bars, and clubs. Her first residency was in a restaurant-turned-nightclub, and from there, she built a career that now spans the globe.

Octo Octa (Maya) started her journey playing in basements and kitchens before progressing to club gigs. Like Eris, she learned through experience, refining her craft with every performance. As time passes by, they both have developed distinct styles that resonate within underground music communities worldwide.

Throughout their careers, they discovered that DJing is not just about technical skills—it’s about collaboration, community, and learning from mistakes. Their journey underscores the importance of sharing knowledge and fostering connections in the music scene.

Eris Drew and Octo Octa’s influence extends beyond DJing. Together, they run T4T LUV NRG, a label dedicated to uplifting trans and queer artists while fostering a deeper connection between music and self-discovery. Since its launch in 2018, the label has embraced an aesthetic that is authentic, unapologetically queer, and rooted in community. Through vinyl releases, DJ guides, sample packs, and workshops, they aim to democratize and demystify underground music culture, ensuring accessibility for aspiring DJs and producers.

Their approach is about more than just skill—it’s about crafting personal narratives through music, connecting with audiences on a profound level, and celebrating individuality in every mix. With this philosophy in mind, their guide, Hot n’ Ready DJ Tips, Tricks, & Techniques, serves as an accessible resource for both beginners and seasoned DJs.

Curating Your Music Collection

A DJ’s collection is a reflection of their personality and artistic vision. Here are some key principles Eris Drew and Octo Octa emphasize when selecting and organizing music:

1. You Are What You Play

Think of DJing as a form of storytelling. Your song choices should represent your emotions, experiences, and unique musical perspectives. Instead of chasing trends, focus on tracks that truly resonate with you. A DJ’s identity is shaped through the music they play, making every selection an extension of their personal story.

2. Explore the World of Vinyl

Many rare and distinctive tracks are only available on vinyl. Digging through record stores can uncover hidden gems that haven’t made their way into digital playlists. Even if you primarily DJ digitally, converting vinyl into high-quality digital files can bring exclusivity to your collection.

3. Embrace Unexpected Discoveries

Great music isn’t always found in the most obvious places. Venturing beyond curated playlists and well-known sources can lead to surprising and unique finds. Record shops, niche online platforms, and even word-of-mouth recommendations from fellow DJs can open doors to incredible tracks.

4. Support Artists Directly

Buying music from platforms like Bandcamp or independent record stores helps sustain the artists and labels that contribute to underground music scene. Supporting the underground scene ensures that innovative music continues to thrive.

5. It’s More Than Just The First Impressions

Some of the best tracks may come from overlooked records with unassuming cover art or lesser-known artists. Being open to exploring beyond appearances can lead to exciting discoveries that set your sets apart from the ordinary.

Thriving in the DJ Scene

Building a strong music collection is just the beginning. To truly grow as a DJ, it’s essential to refine technical skills, engage with the community, and develop a personal style. Here’s how to navigate the world of DJing successfully:

1. Practice Makes Perfect

No one becomes a skilled DJ overnight. Mastery comes from consistent practice, experimenting with different techniques, and learning from mistakes. The more time spent behind the decks, the more natural and confident your mixing will become.

2. Adapt to Different Equipment

Every venue has its own setup, and being adaptable is key. Learning how to use different DJ gear—from turntables to CDJs—ensures smooth performances in any setting. Having a strong grasp of various formats and mixers prepares DJs for any technical challenges they might face.

3. Engage with Your Community

DJing isn’t just about playing music—it’s about building relationships. Supporting local events, attending gigs, and collaborating with other DJs can lead to opportunities and help foster a sense of belonging within the scene.

4. Stay True to Your Sound

It’s easy to feel pressure to play what’s popular, but the best DJs cultivate a distinct musical identity. Playing music that excites and inspires you will resonate with audiences more authentically.

5. Read the Room

While technical skills are important, a DJ’s ability to read the crowd and create an emotional journey is what makes a set memorable. A seamless mix is great, but the energy and connection a DJ brings to the floor matter just as much.

6. Keep Your Library Organized

A well-structured collection allows for smoother performances. Organizing tracks by mood, tempo, or energy level can make selecting the right song at the right moment easier, keeping the set's flow dynamic and engaging.

Eris Drew and Octo Octa encourage artists to break the rules, experiment, and embrace their musical journeys with confidence. Their guide isn’t a rigid formula but rather a toolkit to inspire DJs to grow, connect, and contribute to the music community.For the full guidebook (available in Spanish, French, German, Portuguese and Vietnamese), visit: T4T LUV NRG's website.