Palme DJ contest
Dubai's world-beating Palme crew are back to launch the mother of all DJ contests.
Already a big institution, this year's Palme DJ of the Year Competition event promises to be the biggest one yet, with 50 DJs entering to win the much-prized accolade of number one DJ in the Middle East.
In a unique twist, the competition has been thrown open to all comers - pitting amateurs against professional DJs. They've entered in order to be crowned the don gorgon of selectors in the Middle East, and in this unique environment, the amateurs have a chance to prove their mettle and square up against the biggest spinners.
The first heats are due to take place on 4th May at the Mall of the Emirates' Virgin Megastore in Dubai. "The standards are going to be exceptionally high this year," said Jonathan Gadalla of Palme. "Everything is now in place for a truly outstanding battle." All three initial heats will take place at the Megastore, with the top three contestants going on to the semi-finals at Palme M.E. held at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre between 20th and 22nd May.
The winner of the competition will play at mega dance fest Global Gathering, taking place in Stratford-upon-Avon in the UK on 27th and 28th July 2007. The winner will also receive a package of some of the latest, most cutting-edge DJ equipment.
DJs will be competing on a level playing field, as all will be supplied with the same state-of-the-art equipment, including Ortofon cartridges; a Pioneer CDJ 1000MK3 CD player; Pioneer HDJ – 1000 headphones; a Pioneer DJM 800 mixer; a AKG mikrophone; an Ortofon stylus and slip mats, and Technics turntables.
Contestants will be judged on three main criteria: technical skills, creativity and stage presence. It's going to be an amazing tournament - stay tuned for more news soon...