Bar and club resident DJ

Bar, club and restaurant owners or managers who book DJs for weekend nights, themed evenings and special events.

A set fee per night or per shift from each venue. Income grows as you add more regular nights or take on private bookings.

• Mixing and building a set
• Knowing your local music scene
• Self-promotion on social media
• Reliable, professional approach with venue staff

• Late nights and irregular income, so many people keep another job at first
• Check who is responsible for music licensing (SOCAN and Re:Sound) at the venue
• Insurance for your own equipment, and whether a liability policy is needed
• Agree fees and payment dates in writing, as some venues pay late
• Check your provincial rules on sole proprietorship registration and tax obligations as a self-employed contractor

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $500 to $2,500, depending on whether you buy a controller, headphones and other gear. Venues usually provide the sound system, so your own equipment needs can be modest.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $300 to $1,500, depending on how many nights you play and what each venue pays. Income can be irregular, so many people keep another job at first.

Check who is responsible for SOCAN and Re:Sound music licensing at each venue, and whether you need insurance for your equipment or a liability policy. Also check provincial rules on sole proprietorship registration and self-employed tax, and agree fees in writing.