A man from Bexleyheath has created open deck sessions to help give up-and-coming DJs a chance to play to a live audience in Bexleyheath.
Mark Delee, a DJ who plays under the name Marky D, has played at numerous bars and clubs across south east London for more than 20 years.
Mark previously set up music events in support of the Help for Heroes Charity that took place in Bexleyheath and Beckenham, but now wants to create opportunities for up-and-coming DJs to help them gain vital experience and a path into the DJing industry.
Mark’s latest music event – Hit the Decks – is an open decks session for aspiring DJs in south east London, giving them the opportunity to build and develop their DJing skills whilst playing to a live audience.
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Although Mark works full time, he continues his work as a DJ to fulfil his passion and has worked with renowned DJs from across the UK.
Mark told the News Shopper: “I've hosted a lot of local events and have performed at the local bars and clubs across south east London.
“I really wanted to start music events for people who have a passion for DJing or are beginning their career in the industry.
“I think myself and other DJs have found the industry quite heard to break in to.
“A lot of places will book a resident and then they won't really give anyone else an opportunity for a long time.
“The sessions will be a great time for people to get together and have fun.”
On Thursday, October 6, Mark will be hosting the launch night for Hit the Decks at the Arcadia in Bexleyheath, which will see DJs play from 8pm until 1am, including a set from established DJ Danny Foster.
Mark said: “The event has really taken off.
“I've got experienced DJs performing, a local DJ who is really good playing a set and a few others who are coming from a bit further afield.
“Hopefully it will be really good night with a mix of people with different ages and different music tastes.”
From club classics to deep house to garage sounds, the night is set to feature a range of genres that will offer a “happy party vibe” to all audience members.
Mark says the not-for-profit events will be a “great opportunity” to attend with friends, meet new people and mingle with the DJ's. The next Hit the Decks session will be on Thursday November 3 – with a number of DJ’s already interested and wanting to play.
Although Mark was told by relatives to advertise the Hit the Deck sessions nationally, he decided this wouldn’t be the best approach, as his main focus is to bring “locals across Bexleyheath and south east London together” for these unique events.
He added: “We haven’t even had our launch night yet and there is still so much interest – I just hope locals across Bexley will attend.
“DJS performing have sent over their mixes for the night and there is so many sets and styles of music – a perfect mix for everyone.
“I have loved seeing everything coming together and networking with DJs in the borough.
“We have been bouncing off of each other’s ideas and learning new skills behind the decks.
“Hopefully, the Hit the Decks sessions will be great for aspiring DJS as well as locals who want to pay us a visit and have a great night out.”
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