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     The second half of 2002 saw superstar DJs flocking to Taipei, beginning in July with John00Fleming, then Steve Lawler, Goldie, Paul Oakenfold, Paul van Dyk, and Sasha arriving for the year-end celebrations. Last year had perhaps had the most performances ever in Taipei by DJs who have garnered high rankings in the annual readers¡¦ poll conducted by British professional DJing magazine, ¡§DJ.¡¨

     Since 1993, voters from 65 countries have cast their ballots via fax, post, and the Internet. Last year, ¡§DJ¡¨ magazine received 38,000 ballots. The poll is important in the entertainment industry. Rarely do we hear about or discuss rock band or actress listings, but the DJ listing is very influential. DJs who make the top ten see their worth increase immediately; performance fees sometimes reach the million-dollar range, airfare and accommodation not included.

     Does this listing truly reflect talent? Not necessarily. Certainly, experienced old-timers like Paul van Dyk and Sasha (ranked second and fourth, respectively) are bound to surpass small arena rookies. But few people will notice a skill disparity between those in the top ten and those just outside it.

     Maybe the listing is deceptive. But so long as people rowdily pack the dance floor like they are paying tribute to the Pope, leading DJs will arrive on stage, dancers will celebrate, and everyone will have a memorable night. The listing is primarily something for dancers to talk about. The ticket price for Sasha¡¦s New Year¡¦s Eve party was double that of many other parties, but if you ask me, I¡¦d pick Sasha.