I don't agree at all. A bad promoter who books a good DJ does not make for a good party. There are a lot of other factors. A good promoter with a strong reputation can put on a good gig with out the big names and it can still be a great night. The best nights I have been too, I didn't even know who was playing and I am quite sure they weren't big names.
Nights with big names usually disappoint me. Too much hype and pretentiousness and less money in my pocket for substances.
you are in the small minority though of die hards.
90% of people will not go to a night without one of their faves playing.or atleast someone they have heard of.