True. I was gonna add that exception but I slacked I totally agree with you. You can just buy stems now or dj tools for layering.
What you describe regarding disco was done in studio environment though not live, at least not to my limited knowledge.
Then again, the question is regarding ‘successful’ DJs. I’m more of a house/deephouse/minimal type of DJ, and I have not heard someone use a loop or just a stem honestly. From what I have seen/heard, there is a strong preference for complete tracks. I have not heard a DJ layer three tracks in that category.
But if we’re talking techno/big room, I’m sure the likes of Hawtin and Cox do it. The whole thing with the Model1 mixer they’re marketing is that it lets you add lots of layers.
I feel for them, it could make sense. They have been DJing for decades and can dissect a sound on the spot. If you been DJing for few years, I think you should focus on having a good selection first and foremost. Even before mastering beat matching or any of the techniques.
I’m always interested in reading others’ thoughts on what DJing is and how they perceive it.