Playlists have become an increasingly important part of what we do as DJs. The amount of customization and input from couples/clients has significantly increased now vs in the past. Although there are some exceptions where I’ll get a client giving me just a general idea of the genres they’d like at their wedding/event, much more often than not, I get a detailed playlist with song and artist names.
Increasingly, some clients are using platforms such as Spotify and Apple Music which I then follow and incorporate into your event. While I definitely want the playlist to reflect YOUR tastes, it’s important to consider your GUEST’S tastes in music as well. So ideally, songs that YOU like BUT your GUESTS will enjoy as well. Think of it a lil like the meal you’ll have your caterers serve. You want to serve FOOD they like, right? Similarly your playlist should have MUSICAL Menu choices that appeal to MANY people’s tastes not just a few (Mass Appeal Hits). I’ll be happy to help you create the right playlist and/or offer honest feedback on your choices.
Here’s some general guidelines and things to consider:
Demographics: What are the ages and backgrounds of your guests. What songs do the different subgroups of your guest mix like?
Many only think of Dancing/Party Songs, and while YES these are the musical main course, it’s important to consider other segments of the overall music playlist for your event since they account for several hours worth of music, or what’s known in Radio Programming circles as Dayparting i.e. What time of day these songs work BEST in because of the vibe/energy they inherently have. With regard to weddings/events these are:
Weddings:
(Where applicable when I’m playing your ceremony music)
Prelude: (Romantic/cool easy relaxing tunes to set the mood as guest arrive and are seated
Ceremony: Romantic Songs for Bridal Party and Bride/Partner Processional (Walk down the aisle), sometimes a song DURING the ceremony
Recessional : A fun upbeat song for after your officiant pronounces you as a married couple
Cocktail Hour: Mellowish but not sleepy, not TOO crazy music that sets a cool vibe for beverages at a “conversational” volume
Formalities: Your entrance songs, formal dances, etc
Dinner: Usually a lil mellower than Cocktail Hour described above. Can be similar or different genres, but suitable for dinner vibe at lower volume.
PARTY TIME!! Musical Main Course! The songs/artists that will connect with MOST of your guests to get em out there on the dancefloor with you and celebrate your love! A mix of genres and “banger” tunes with a good history of getting people with demographics similar to yours movin n groovin with you on the dancefloor. Remember, these songs should appeal to a majority of your guests. Also, try to limit the length to 15-20 songs/hour x 2-3 hours since the above segments often take up that much time. I can help you curate your playlist. Text email me at 786-325-7696 or djajfalcon@gmail.com
Do Not Play/Filters: Please let me know what songs/genres you DON’T want to hear, and if requests are to be taken, what filters if any to apply
DJ Flexibility/Improvisation: Most couples allow me to improvise as needed to keep the party goin. This often means selecting a song not on your playlist but that’s compatible with the song/genre of the tune playing just before it. We can discuss.
Corporate Events:
Typically there is some type of Cocktail Hour or Reception where upbeat but not too crazy background music is playing at a conversational volume. The genres, songs, or artists should be consistent with the demographics of your guests and/or enhancing your brand image, appeal to target customers, and be consistent with the “theme” of your event such as Holiday Party etc
Dinner: Again, background music can be similar to above but usually a bit mellower to set the right vibe for dinner.
Dancing/Party Time! Corporate Events sometimes have a more diverse demographic Ideally, as many “crossover” tunes that are consistent with your brand/company image that appeal to many different demographics. Let me work with your event planner to create a successful, fun event !
Birthdays, etc
Usually less structured musically speaking with fun dancing music from the beginning throughout. Music as always should reflect your guest’s demographics and appropriate to the guest of honor’s tastes. Of course, there are exceptions where there may be a more formal sit down meal with the appropriate music. Do Not Play requests are also important as well as taking requests from your guests.
