Proper, hard-working DJs submit track lists from gigs which then compensates artists through copyright and performing arts agencies, which is way more money than the $0.50 you get from a single track sale. This has been standard for decades and is no different from Twitch collecting revenue. You can also submit tracklists from online events these days. Although in my experience most DJs are lazy (or do not know of this scheme), and this stuff needs to be automated.
Pretending that the DJ's experience matters more than the music they play is cringeworthy for any DJ worth their salt. Nobody beside self-centered assholes think this way about themselves.
And this is not even getting to how a lot of DJs don't even pay for their music.. big names have a constant stream of free promos coming their way, and you can sign up on any number of promo lists from labels to get their latest releases delivered in your inbox. It used to be that they mailed out physical vinyl, for free!
Pretending that the DJ's experience matters more than the music they play is cringeworthy for any DJ worth their salt. Nobody beside self-centered assholes think this way about themselves.
And this is not even getting to how a lot of DJs don't even pay for their music.. big names have a constant stream of free promos coming their way, and you can sign up on any number of promo lists from labels to get their latest releases delivered in your inbox. It used to be that they mailed out physical vinyl, for free!