Video Jockey commonly called VJ, as a career has become one of the top most career option among the music crazy younger generation in the recent past. It is the person who introduce the television programs especially the music shows.
The main function of the VJ is to announce music videos and host music related shows on television. But now competition increases, music channels are on the trend of incorporating many diverse shows to attract the public. So the VJ’s area of work involves apart from introducing videos,.. hosting reality shows, travel, game, chatting with the public, doing interviews with artists and music celebrities etc.
VJ is required to be up-to-date on the latest trends in music, information about music stars and other celebrities. To fulfill their role as experts, VJ should have a well-rounded knowledge of all types of music and also should be informed about a bit of everything from films to politics to travel whatever the theme the show demands.
The important skills required for the video jockey are being energetic, good sense of humor, excellent communication skills, good voice modulation and excellent knowledge of the subject. Besides these, they also have to undertake a lot of other functions as well such as writing the script for the program, preparing the a list of the songs to be played during the program, deciding different themes and interacting with audience.
Jockeying generally involves three areas and as such Jockeys are called a VJ, DJ, RJ .
Video Jockey (VJ)- is a person who present shows on TV, introduce music videos on TV.
Radio Jockey (RJ)- entertains listeners of a radio program and provides information along with selecting and playing records. They have their own style to entertain listeners.
Disc Jockey (DJ)– selects and plays music for an intended audience in club, parties and restaurants.
Courses and eligibility
A formal education is not required to become a video jockey, but due to competition, a college degree in television, broadcasting or the music business can come in handy. Several institutions have started offering certificate and diploma programs in this field. They are..
- Diploma in Radio Jockeying
- RJ & Anchoring Training
- Certificate Course in Radio Jockey
- Radio jockeying and production
The coursework focuses on tweaking the skills of public speaking, writing and overall presentation of an individual.
Remuneration
For a RJ the starting salary can be anything between Rs 10,000 to Rs 15,000 per month while for a VJ it is around Rs 15,000 to Rs 20,000 per month. If they become popular their salary keeps multiplying and with some experience and real talent, one can surely hope to rise quickly in this profession. The best part about this profession is that a video jockey can earn name and fame upon excelling in the field, apart from mere handsome earnings.