Flip The Script on Haters (as a DJ / Producer)

Haters are inevitable. They show up in all forms, and trust me, I’ve seen them all.

You will find them wearing different masks. Online trolls, drunk fans, panicked promoters, even those you thought had your back.

But haters are not obstacles. They all come from the same place – envy. And that envy? It's rooted in fear.

You’ll face hate in so many different ways as an artist. But it shows you are doing something right.

Let me explain.

You Will Learn

• How to manage online trolls.
• Strategies to redirect drunk fans to hype the room.
• Techniques to convert unsolicited experts into allies.
• Ways to manage panicked promoters to your advantage.
• Tips to play everywhere despite club scene tribalism.

The Online Trolls

Some anonymous keyboard warrior will leave a comment on your post: “This track is mid”. You know why? Because it costs them nothing.

They hide behind screens. They pop up in your comments, slide into your DMs. But they're just noise.

You’ve done something they couldn’t. It reminds them of their stagnation.

Do this instead

Use their noise. Pin their comments, own your narrative.

Starve Them: No DM replies. No engagement with them.

Redirect: It's free advertising. Trolls actually market your art better than your friends do.

The Panicked Promoter

Promoters aren't haters, but they can act like it. They're stressed, scared the night will flop. “Play something everyone knows! This will save the night!”

No. It won’t. Their panic is not your problem.

They don't get the crowd like you do. Make them feel involved, but not in control.

Deliver. No confrontation.

Why? Don't blow your set early or change direction to please them. Pace your set. Imagine walking into the club mid-set – does your next track still fit?

True Story: A promoter once demanded a hit song mid-set. I faked agreement, then did the opposite. Slowly built up my set, switched up the mood 40 minutes later and the crowd lost it. To a track they'd never heard before.

Let promoters get an emotional response – it shows them they are wrong. And you will be trusted.

The Drunk Fan

This one’s unavoidable. You know the type. They're loud, desperate for attention. Waving their phones like they’re casting spells while requesting songs. Again, they are not haters, they are people needing validation.

Eye contact. Nod. Smile. Say nothing.

Drunk fans aren’t enemies – they’re entertainment. Learn to control the chaos. Give them a quick nod. Use it to your advantage.

Club Scene Tribalism

Modern nightlife tribalism = rules like “If you play here, you can’t play there”. This is always small-time thinking.

I dealt with this early. Club owners, promoters, all fear competition. They’ll try to box you in.

No one owns you. Not the club. Not the promoter. Not the scene. Not an agency.

Do this instead

Play everywhere anyway.

Work with everyone – clubs, promoters, collectives – but stay independent. Show loyalty, not exclusivity.

• Play fewer gigs but make them events. Let clubs chase you.
• Host your own nights. Partner with others. Lead.
• Avoid drama. Let others waste their energy.
• Sidestep the politics. Play the game, but don't let it define you.

Other DJ Friends (or Foes?)

This one's tough. DJs are competitive, even your friends. When you start getting more bookings, some will act distant or salty. You’ll notice the vibe shift. Pay attention early on to artists that bad mouth others. There can be a lot of back stabbing. But here's the thing – you want to partner with DJs who are open to grow.

Don't get caught up in the politics. Jealousy burns fast.

The Producer & The Ego

When you start releasing music, some producers will "give you feedback" not to help, but to make themselves feel like they know better. Some will lift you up. Others? Not so much. They’ll critique, undermine, or ignore you entirely. Why? Because you’re stepping into their territory.

Don’t waste your energy.

Do this instead

Share your process – when you’re open about your creative tricks it humanizes you and attracts genuine producers more likely to help.

Keep releasing music. Ignore the static.

Recap

• Online trolls can help with your engagement.
• Drunk fans aren't enemies.
• Convert unsolicited experts into allies.
• Keep promoters busy and deliver your set.
• Stay independent and play everywhere.

The Bottom Line?

Haters. Trolls. Critics. They come from fear and envy, and the two are tightly connected. Let them hate.

You're not here for them.

Do your work. Stay humble.