The joy of Crookes, books and 7” singles
Seven by 7, an open-decks night in Sheffield, lets anyone take a turn playing records, offering an alternative to the exclusive image of superstar DJ culture. The long-running event is part of a monthly good-news edition highlighting local community initiatives.
Launched in 2001, Seven by 7 asks each participant to play seven 7-inch vinyl singles before handing over to the next DJ. Organiser Tim Bowell says it began because Sheffield’s music scene felt cliquey; more than 1,000 DJs have since played, including Phil Oakey, Richard Hawley and members of I, Monster.
- Seven by 7 has welcomed aspiring DJs since 2001.
- Each participant plays seven 7-inch singles.
- More than 1,000 DJs have taken a turn.
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An open-decks night gives people a chance to play records in front of an audience, whether or not they are professional DJs. Sheffield has a long music history, but its local scene, like many music scenes, can have social circles that are difficult for newcomers to enter.
Seven by 7 began in 2001, organised by Tim Bowell as a way to make taking part more accessible. Each person plays seven singles on 7-inch vinyl, then passes the turn to someone else; more than 1,000 people have played, including musicians from Sheffield.
The event offers a different model from DJ culture built around star performers: the focus is on sharing music and giving each participant a short set. It is part of a wider local tradition of community events organised around shared interests.