Work hard, party harder: the work of the DJs in the São Paulo nightlife

• Grant number: 14/08098-2
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• Start date: August 01, 2014
• End date: April 30, 2018
• Field of knowledge: Humanities - Sociology - Other specific Sociologies
• Agreement: Coordination of Improvement of Higher Education Personnel (CAPES)
• Principal Investigator: Jacob Carlos Lima
• Grantee: Marcos Roberto Mariano Pina
• Host Institution: Centro de Educação e Ciências Humanas (CECH). Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCAR). São Carlos , SP, Brazil
• Associated scholarship(s): 15/19499-0 - Le travail des DJs dans la ville de São Paulo: une analyse comparative avec le travail artistique et musical français, BE.EP.DR

Abstract

The analysis of changes in contemporary work relations may have its energy renewed by the study of non-traditional occupations, especially the ones related to the musical-artistic scene - which is normally understood as the opposite side of work. We can see in them a promising approach to flexible work, after the productive restructuration; thus, we are able to revisit the classical and recurrent concepts of subordination, autonomy, formality, informality etc. In this perspective, we propose to study the work of nightclub DJs in São Paulo, which are responsible for handling and creating songs played in these parties. We have collected data regarding variations in agreement contracts, the benefits and construction of these professionals' identity as workers. We have analyzed their dependence on weak-linked networks for entering and maintaining their jobs, their multifaceted, decentered and bordering identification with artistic creation and subordinate work - the parallel lines of the worker and the independent musician. This study is based on qualitative methodology, semi-structured interviews and field visits in presentations. (AU)