Turntablism Reference · TLA Standard · Scratch Techniques
THE ART OF
THE SCRATCH.
TLA DJs are expected to know these techniques. Most are expected to master them. This is not a history lesson — it is the standard.
8 Core Techniques
Foundational Scratch Techniques
Tap any technique to expand · Difficulty ratings reflect time-to-competency, not importance
Performance Doctrine
The TLA Standard.
Six requirements. No exceptions.
These are not suggestions. They are the conditions under which a DJ earns and keeps a place on this platform.
Live Video · Always On
Decks, mixer, hands, and pitch control visible at all times. No camera-off periods. No cropped equipment.
Beat Matching by Ear
Tracks matched manually — by listening, by feel, by adjusting pitch in real time. No sync button. No auto-BPM.
Real-Time Performance
Every set is performed live as it broadcasts. No prerecorded mixes. No playback. No ghost mixing.
Scratch & Turntablism
TLA DJs are expected to know foundational scratch technique. Turntablism is part of the culture — not optional.
Music Knowledge & Selection
A real DJ knows the music — deep cuts, B-sides, and underground releases. Selection is half the skill.
"If you can't show the mix, you can't claim the mix."
The-Lost-Art.com · Core Doctrine · Est. 2009