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What DJs Can Learn From Warren Buffett

Warren Buffett—the most famous investor in modern history—just officially retired. Known for his decades-long partnership with Charlie Munger, Buffett wasn’t just a stock picker. He was a master of mindset, discipline, and long-term thinking.

And although he couldn’t be further from the dancefloor (and probably wouldn’t be seen near a Funktion-One speaker), there’s a lot that DJs—especially those early in their journey—can learn from the way Buffett built his empire.

Here are four key principles from Buffett’s life that can rewire your DJ journey:

1. Play the Long Game

Buffett started investing as a teenager, but he didn’t become a billionaire until his 50s. Today, more than 90% of his net worth was accumulated after he turned 65.

Lesson for DJs: You don’t have to “blow up” at 22. Most DJs who truly shape the culture—whether it’s Dixon, Sasha, or Carl Cox—have decades behind them. Success in DJing compounds. The more you play, produce, build community, and learn your craft, the stronger your foundation becomes.

Think in decades, not weekends.

2. Confidence Without Desperation

Buffett once said, “The most important quality for an investor is temperament, not intellect.” He always knew he would succeed—without needing to rush or overcompensate.

Lesson for DJs: Promoters, fans, collaborators—they can all feel whether you’re confident or desperate. That energy speaks louder than your Instagram profile. When you’re secure in your value and enjoy the process, people are drawn to you. Even more so if you’ve done the inner work to feel grounded and focused.

3. Be Known for One Thing First

When you think of Warren Buffett, one word comes to mind: investing. Not real estate, not crypto, not tech startups. His brand is laser-focused.

Lesson for DJs: Pick a lane and own it. That doesn’t mean you can’t evolve later, but it’s easier to build a following when people know what to expect from you. Whether it’s Organic House, vinyl-only sets, or sunrise festival moments—let people associate you with something first.

Once you’re known, then you get permission to surprise people.

4. Let Compound Interest Work for You

Buffett calls compound interest “the eighth wonder of the world.” He credits his wealth not to intelligence, but to patience, discipline, and time.

Lesson for DJs: Here’s what compounding looks like in the music world:

• Making one small track a month instead of waiting for one perfect EP.
• Playing local gigs, meeting 10 people at a time, building real community.
• Posting regularly without obsessing over viral success.
• Learning one new trick or production skill per week.

These small efforts stack. And they don’t just build skills—they build momentum and trust.

Final Thought: Buffetts Are Everywhere

Morgan Housel, author of The Psychology of Money, writes that the most successful people “consistently do the unsexy work.” They embrace repetition, they resist shortcuts, and they don’t stop. This is true whether you’re managing a billion-dollar portfolio—or a warm-up set at a 100-person event.

The next time you feel discouraged about your progress, ask yourself:

What would Warren do if he were a DJ? He’d focus, stay patient, build consistently—and let time do the heavy lifting.

Ok. I admit it’s the most ‘un-cool’ way to look at DJing. But some strategic thinking could take a lot of effort out of your game and more success your way.

Follow-Up Questions You Can Reflect On:

• What’s the one thing I want to be known for as a DJ?
• Where am I rushing instead of compounding?
• How do I radiate calm confidence rather than performance anxiety?