Yesterday, the New York Post broke the news that Paris Hilton, who proclaimed herself to be a top 5 DJ, signed a new residency with Harrah’s AC. The contract provides for 4 performances by Hilton, worth around $100,000 each time. This follow her summer residency at Amnesia in Ibiza. Whether you like it or not, she has become apart of the EDM community or at least the DJ community. It is interesting to think about what this means for EDM going forward?
For most, its a perfect example of the consequences that come with the rise of EDM. When capitalism gets in the way of any genre of music, it is bound to downplay the need for quality and focus strictly on making money. It is the only reason why people such as Paris Hilton or DJ Pauly D have been successful in the first place. Before starring on “The Jersey Shore,” did you even know who Pauly D was? The people most affected by signings like this, are DJs who have actually perfected their craft and do not simply rely on a prerecorded set. Take a second to watch some of Laidback Luke spinning for DJ Sounds and you will realize that DJing is not just some hobby, but a true profession that takes years to master. Paris Hilton getting $100,000 to spin is like a kick in the proverbial balls for DJs still trying to make it after putting in years of work.
If people like Paris Hilton continue to get gigs, the quality of EDM will ultimately be decreased and we should not allow that to happen.
