An LA Nightclub Has Banned DJs From Using Laptops

The proliferation of young DJs trying to make it on the music scene has been greatly boosted by computer-based mixing technology that makes it easier than ever to curate a live mix.

Kenny Summit, the proprietor of the Cure And The Cause nighclub in LA has weighed into the debate, announcing via Facebook that the club would be banning the use of laptops in their DJ booth.

“Unless you’re using it to control VINYL to do a turntablist type of set, a’la Jazzy Jeff type shit, or if you’re doing a LIVE thing where you’re actually programming shit on the fly,” reads the post “Keep your controller in your crib, dont come to work with training wheels. LEARN THE TOOLS OF THE TRADE already.”

The announcement sparked much debate on Twitter, with DJs including Richie Hawtin (who primarily uses a laptop and a controller) speaking out against the new rule.

In an interview with Magnetic Magazine, Summit clarified the reasons behind his decision. He said that the ban on laptops wasn’t aimed at stifling headliners, but that the decision was made in an effort to encourage young DJs who are “cutting their teeth” in the industry to learn their craft.

“We have House music events four nights per week. So we get A LOT of DJs coming through the club every week,” said Summit. “Obviously, DJs like Louie (Vega) or Kenny Dope or ANY seasoned veteran are welcome to use whatever the hell they want to use,” he clarified.

“The problem lies with the opening DJs (mostly), many of them show up with a laptop and controller, and that’s all they’ve ever used. That’s a problem. They don’t know what to connect with our Pioneer system; they have no clue what they’re plugging in or what plugs they’re taking out.”

Summit went on to describe his frustration with “DJs who haven’t bothered to go the full distance and LEARN how to set their shit up without interrupting the flow of the night. Midnight is not the ideal time to turn the mixer off, pull it out and start guessing which port to plug your Traktor into.”

He also said that the decision was part of a desire to throw back to a time when DJs “took pride in knowing the equipment, knowing how to set up every component in the DJ booth.  The kids just don’t seem to give a fuck today. We immersed ourselves into the culture whereas this is now just a stupid hobby that anyone and everyone seem to have picked up.”