This week’s DJ LIFE Mobile Monday DJ spotlight, presented by QSC, shines on Dylan Weisman of Xplosive Entertainment.
Dylan Weisman is this week’s DJ LIFE Mobile Monday spotlight. Presented by QSC, Weisman of Xplosive Entertainment is based out of central New Jersey. Although based of out central Jersey, Weisman also primarily services Pennsylvania, New York, Connecticut, Maryland, and has done dozens of “destination events” in Aruba, Mexico, Greece, and more.
As a mobile DJ, there’s far more that goes into each event than people might be aware of. For Weisman, mobile DJing might present its own set of challenges with each event, but he believes the thrill lies in finding inventive solutions to keep the energy flowing and the experience seamless for attendees.
Having the opportunity to dive deeper into the world of being a mobile DJ, Dylan also touches on how he got his start as a mobile DJ, some of the biggest pros and cons within the field, current setup (sound, lighting, software, equipment, and more), DJ-related pet peeves, and the most important life lesson he’s learned (so far) from his work as a mobile DJ.
When DJ LIFE spoke with Dylan Weisman regarding all things mobile DJ, here’s how it went down…
DJ LIFE: What does being a mobile DJ mean to you?
Dylan Weisman: To me, mobile entertainment is about unleashing creativity and harnessing the energy of people to create moments of pure joy. It’s the challenge and excitement of transforming any space into an unforgettable experience, no matter where it takes place. Whether it’s a small private party, a corporate event, or a large public celebration, mobile entertainment allows me to adapt, problem-solve, and bring people together through music, interaction, and shared experiences.
What I love most about mobile entertainment is the constant opportunity for creative problem-solving. Every event presents its own set of challenges—whether it’s tight spaces, diverse crowds, or unexpected changes—and the thrill lies in finding inventive solutions that keep the energy flowing and the experience seamless. It’s about more than just setting up a sound system; it’s about designing a dynamic atmosphere that amplifies the joy and excitement of everyone involved.
At the heart of it all is the energy of the people. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing a crowd come alive, connecting through music and experiences that leave them smiling long after the event is over. Mobile entertainment is about curating those moments that spark joy, create lasting memories, and make every celebration feel truly special.
DJ LIFE: Tell us about your current DJ setup…
Weisman: My current DJ setup is built around top-tier gear & software from QSC, Pioneer, Serato, CrateHackers, MixEmergency and Chauvet.
For sound, I rely on QSC K12.2 speakers as my main system, paired with either KS118 subwoofers for larger events (200+ guests) or KS112 for more intimate crowds. For big events with 300+ guests, I switch to the QSC LA112 alongside the KS118 for unbeatable coverage and power. I also use K10.2 and CP12 for monitors and fill speakers, and our new QSC KC12 is a game-changer for us and there will be a variety of ways we plan on using these new speakers!
Regardless of the size of the event, every setup includes a QSC TouchMix (8 or 16) for smooth, professional sound control. For mixing, I stick with Pioneer DJ’s DDJ-SZ2, which, though older, has proven to be reliable and durable for all my performances. I use Serato for my DJ software, and I partner it with CrateHackers as well as MixEmergency for Video mixing.
When it comes to lighting, I rely on Chauvet DJ products to elevate the atmosphere. The Chauvet Intimidator Spot moving heads are perfect for creating dynamic effects and vibrant colors, and they always provide that “wow” factor. We use Chauvet Ev100 for our Gobo Projections as well as ProGobo for all of our custom gobo needs (seriously, thes guys are amazing!) We also have a variety of Uplighting and special effects to add depth and excitement. All lighting is controlled through Chauvet’s ShowXpress software, allowing me to perfectly sync cues, effects, and transitions for a fully immersive experience. And, of course, we’re always bringing extra entertainment to the table—whether it’s photobooths from LA PHOTO PARTY or custom-built specialty stations, we make sure to elevate every celebration!
DJ LIFE: What are the pros and cons of being a mobile DJ?
Weisman:
Pros:
Flexibility and Variety: As a mobile DJ, no two events are the same. I get to work at a wide range of venues—everything from intimate weddings to large corporate events or festivals. This variety keeps things exciting and allows me to use my creativity in new ways every time.
Personal Connection with Clients: One of the most rewarding parts of being a mobile DJ is the personal relationships I build with clients. I’m often there for some of the most important moments in their lives, like weddings, Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, milestone birthdays, and corporate celebrations. Being part of those memories is incredibly fulfilling.
Creative Freedom: Mobile DJing offers a lot of room for creativity, both in terms of music selection and event planning. I have the freedom to design custom playlists, interactive elements, and even live remixes. It’s a chance to make each event unique and memorable.
The Energy of the Crowd: There’s nothing like feeding off the energy of a crowd. Seeing people light up on the dance floor or reacting to a surprise moment I’ve planned is one of the best parts of the job. The atmosphere I create can really set the tone for the whole event.
Cons:
The biggest downside for me is being away from my family. With young kids (4 & 16 months) at home, missing out on evenings and weekends with them is the toughest part of the job. I try to explain it in a way they can understand, saying, “Daddy has to work, but when I do, I help people have fun and dance.” They also know that working hard means we can do special things together, like go to their favorite place, Disney World!
DJ LIFE: Do you have any DJ-related pet peeves?
Weisman: Stairs.
DJ LIFE: How did you get started as a DJ?
Weisman: My journey as a DJ started right after my Bar Mitzvah in September 2006, when I was just 13. Bobby Morgenstein saw my energy and excitement on the dance floor and asked me to come work with him. He saw something in me that he believed could make me a great entertainer, and that was the beginning.
A few years later, I found myself working for Bobby at BMP (Bobby Morgenstein Productions), a large DJ company at the time. I was doing everything—MCing mitzvahs, helping out in the warehouse, assisting with sales, and even serving as Bobby’s personal DJ. High school brought out my entrepreneurial spirit, so I started DJing smaller Sweet Sixteens and school dances on my own. When Bobby caught wind of it, he offered to partner with me, and that’s when things really took off.
As the years went by and the partnership evolved, Bobby and I eventually became partners in Flare Event Group, a premier entertainment company in Philadelphia. I ran the company as owner/operator from 2011 to 2019, and it was an amazing ride. With the success of Flare, we were fortunate to align with industry leaders like A-sharp Productions and Xplosive Entertainment. After some conversations (and a few drinks), we decided to merge Flare and A-sharp with Xplosive to create a powerhouse in the Philly and New Jersey area.
Surviving the pandemic and looking at us now, my partner in Xplosive, Micheal Langsner and I cannot be prouder of where Xplosive Entertainment is today as compared to just a few years prior.
I just goes to show that building connections and betting on yourself while staying humble is a recipe for a great future. Who knew that a little hobby, coupled with a great mentor, and some self-sacrifice, I’d be helping run a company that will do hundreds of events a year, it really is something special.
DJ LIFE: What is the most important life lesson you have gained from your experience as a DJ?
Weisman: The most important lesson I’ve learned is that you’re never too good to learn something new. Staying open to impact and inspiration is key, and it’s something I constantly remind myself of, especially when things get hectic, or I start feeling stuck. Growth comes from embracing new ideas and experiences, no matter how far along you are in your journey
Photo Credits: Scott Maguire