There was a time when being a working DJ meant being part of a DJ pool. DJ pools are exclusive lists offering new music directly from labels. They’re aimed at pro DJs, like the ones who offer courses at DJ Courses Online. In the past, record companies actually shipped 12”s to DJs in the mail with dance versions of upcoming singles. In return, DJs submitted info back to the labels on which tracks were playing well. DJ download stores are the current equivalent of pools. Here are the most popular ones.
ZipDJ
If EDM is still your thing, zipDJ is your place. They have the largest Electronic EDM catalog of any digital DJ pool. Not as popular as the other options, but nicely focused on underground house music. Their site is a zippy web app which allows you to use keyboard hotkeys to find new stuff, making discovery smarter and easier. Learn more about ZipDJ.
DJCity
Originally a hip hop pool, DJCity now covers everything. Affordable entry level tier. DJCity now is the leading source of exclusive, first-look music directly from the labels. New music only. They’re actually owned by Beatsource, so for throwbacks you kinda have to go through Beatsource. Check out the DJCity FAQ for more.
BPM Supreme
Bootlegs, dirty versions, vintage tunes. BPM Supreme has it all. BPM Supreme boasts a healthy selection of the more commercial side of dance music. A solid bet if you’re looking for exclusive DJ-friendly re-edits of popular tracks. New music arrives from the record label daily.
Maybe you’ve been stuck playing whatever tracks were dumped on your hard drive in 2015 and haven’t really thought to look any further. But if there’s one thing that separates a hobbyist from a professional DJ, it’s their music source. Joining a DJ pool is a great way to level up. And there are tons to choose from. Also check out Promo Only, Digital DJ Pool, MyMP3Pool, DMS and Club Killers. Hit them up with a monthly sub fee and start decorating your collection with exclusive cuts.