John 00 Fleming’s wildest DJ changeover story

John 00 Fleming has carved his name in the electronic music world not only through his iconic progressive and trance sets but also as a seasoned expert who deeply understands DJing’s technical and performance demands. Over decades, he has witnessed countless live moments, both smooth and chaotic, offering insights from the frontline of club culture. Recently, John shared a vivid story about one of the most chaotic DJ changeovers he has experienced, providing valuable lessons for DJs everywhere.

“If it wasn’t for my experience, it could’ve easily left me in a big mess.” – John 00 Fleming

During a recent gig, John faced a truly chaotic DJ handover that tested his skills and composure. Typically, a DJ changeover follows an unspoken etiquette: the outgoing artist signals their last track, allowing the incoming DJ to prepare gear, plug in USBs, and load the first song. However, this time, the previous DJ ignored all protocols. With only two Pioneer CDJ 3000s and a Pioneer V10 mixer available, both USB slots were occupied. As the set ended abruptly without warning, John was left scrambling. The mixer’s flashing lights, erratic effects, and reversed deck settings created a confusing scene that could have overwhelmed anyone less experienced.

Despite the chaos, John stayed calm and methodically reset the equipment. He stressed that understanding your gear thoroughly can save your set in moments like these. Most importantly, he urged DJs to practice courtesy by giving notice, clearing effects, and helping the next DJ settle in. In this way, artists preserve the flow of the night and respect their peers.

John’s story highlights how professionalism and gear knowledge combine to keep a night running smoothly – even when the unexpected hits.