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disc jockey?

what makes a great wedding dj?

Public Comments

1. I actually prefer live music, maybe an orchestra or jazz band.
2. I'd say someone who is more interested in what YOU want to be played and how YOU want the music to be than what they think should be played. I've heard plenty of stories about djs who don't play any songs on the list you gave them, etc. Look for someone that is confident, comfortable and PROFESSIONAL. & You can always ask for references from previous weddings that they've done.
3. Someone that plays the music requests you want to hear along with a diverse selection of music for all at the reception to enjoy (young folks, hip folks, old folks, senior citizens, etc.). Diverse selection includes popular dance, R&B, country, Rock, classical, and Jazz songs that are standard at most weddings. If needed, ask the DJ for references or inquire about some events they have done within their business so they have a feel for various types of music.
4. do you have a certain theme for this wedding? not that i'm conservative or anything but most weddings have a live band/orchestra playing or previously recorded (piped in) music--selections meaningful to the couple. in any case, make sure you hire someone that has a relatively extensive library if you aren't gonna be providing the songs for the event. Also, check out the equipment he's gonna be using...are you providing this or is he? Most important of all, he must be someone that can be trusted to stick to the program/playlist (if you have one) Giving him creative freedom is a bit risky but its up to you...he must really be trustworthy and dependable if you decide to do this. After all, a wedding is not only one of the most memorable experiences in life for the couple...what happens during the wedding also leaves an imprint on the memory of those that attend it.
5. Someone who is experienced, knowledgeable and able to provide you with one on one service BEFORE the event. Someone who will keep your event running smoothly and on time. (a professional DJ is not a juke box that only plays music) As for requests, a good DJ knows what requests to play and when. No, they cannot play the entire list of songs some couples provide because through YEARS of experience they have learned that those songs will clear the dance floor!! A good DJ will let you know before your event that he/she will accept and play the most "danceable" requests. (certainly a good DJ welcomes/encourages requests but Pantera really has no place at a wedding reception) I noticed some of the other posters say a bad DJ is one who doesn't play your requests then please consider this... if a DJ plays all of your requests but no one dances...which is worse? Why did you hire the DJ? As a juke box to play the songs you selected no matter what or to get people dancing, having fun and celebrating? I know that there are more bad DJs out there than good. Hire one that is licensed, professional and insured. Word of mouth is a great way to learn about talented DJ companies. Meet your DJ, sign a contract and since you wouldn't tell the caterer how to cook, please respect the experience of your DJ company and let them do what they do best.
6. Someone who knows there stuff... Go with Complete Music they got all the right stuff,