Tips on Creating a Successful Cheerleading Mix

When it comes time to create the cheer mix for your cheerleading competition you’ll notice the members of your squad will have very mixed opinions on what the cheer mix should sound like.  You’ll find choosing the right blend of music can be very difficult.  Since everyone has their own opinions on music I thought I would give you mine, as well as give you some tips on what you should put into your cheerleader mix.

1. The first step when planning a cheerleading mix would be to find a professional who has experience mixing cheer music.  I’ve found that the best people who can do this are DJs!  Now I don’t mean your average wedding DJ or people who think they are DJs.  I mean DJs are experienced in beat mixing the latest stuff, live right in front of you.  These tend to be the best people to use for this type of work.

2.  After you’ve found this professional DJ, it’s very important that you give him or her an 8 count sheet of your routine.  An 8 count sheet is going to be your road map for the DJ.  You’ll want to map all the 8 counts of your routine and write them down for him.  He’ll then be able to read your sheet and know which count you hit your toe touches, baskets, scorpions, and your double downs.  He’ll then be able to add in the sound effects in the proper places, and make sure transitions are smooth!

3. What music should you use? When creating a mix you’ll always want to stick with music you think your judges will like.  Most judges at competitions are going to be a little older and will like music from the 80s and 90s era.  Using new music in your routine will work, but try not to use every new song that comes out this summer.  Otherwise your mix may end up being a little dull as it will sound similar to your rival’s routine.  Imagine being a judge and hearing "I'm bringing sexy back" in every routine.  You can see how this would annoy them. Be creative and maybe even try to pick songs that you haven’t heard before.

4. When arriving at a competition, be sure to have a gym copy, competition copy, and backup on your computer of the cheerleading mix.  It is very important to have several copies of the music.  You never know what could happen and without the music you’ll have no routine.

These are just a few ideas I’ve compiled over the years as a Chicago cheerleading disc jockey.  Following these tips will help you as you prepare for your next big competition!