I've been a dj as long as i've been making beats, though the genres vary on both. I've been scratching for only 2 years with no drive at all except plain fun. I lack skills and dedication to become a turntablist, I've been to all dmc's in past 4 years which is actualy been demotivating to even compare myself. I've spunn a lot breaks n electronica for the sake of the dancefloor ( n chix ) only, nowadays I only spinn D&B ( since 96, completly since 99 ). Funny thing is that I seldom produce D&B, at least not as much as would like to, in this case productions are mainly hiphop based and commercialy based. Two different things with two different purposes and values, I can't care less about a rep as a dj, all producers in my opinion create music to make a statement, personal or not. I think, in the correct order it's beneficial to be a producer first, than a dj. I say this since I've met so many dj's that eventualy discover that in order to make it or expand creativity you want to make music too besides spinning it. Knowledge upon records is a must too, but you don't need to be a dj in order to find original sample material cq. diggin crates n 2nd stores. Sorta like R&D, for the love of the game and respect for the orignals. I found so many good records/music that after listening I wouldn't even dare to sample it.