Learning to DJ and playing (or at least
going to) parties is pretty important. Just like knowing some theory is important, you also need to know what works on a crowd and
why. I'm constantly having to edit other people's tracks because a breakdown might be too long etc... it kind of forces me to keep my own productions tight as well.
Learning to DJ with Ableton would be good because the techniques you use there would be applicable to your productions as well. However, you definitely lose a lot of the spontaneity (not even gonna try and spell that correctly) and honestly it's pretty boring to watch.
If you don't really care to DJ and just want to produce, get out there and
party your ass off. Clubs, raves, house parties... go out and have a blast, and keep an eye on what the dancers are responding to. Just don't smoke too much weed or you'll never get anything done.
