Media. Music. Business. Life.

Not to be a naysayer. But: not sure I’m bullish on cramming DJs into the reality competition format. (Headline of this post is a link to the press release.) If it works, it will create DJ stars based on looks and personality as opposed to skills. One could argue that #EDM needs more of that to help its commercial viability. But I don’t see it working. Throughout my nearly 20 years of taking part in and observing dance music, it only ever really thrives as an experience for those in the club and on the floor. Everything else has tended to miss the audience — and the point. That said, streaming numbers for those watching DJ sets from home — very much not the same thing as a reality show, but an exception to my “you gotta be there” rule — have been occasionally impressive. And there are some great, smart folks I know who are associated with this new program. For their sake and for the sake of dance music, I’ll hold out hope of a pleasant surprise.