To provide a disco playlist that suits everyone can be difficult, even for the most experienced DJs. Here are a few pointers on the best way to support your DJ, to get the best out of your party.
Is it a good idea that you provide a disco playlist for your party?
It is your party, so yes!
Of course, the first point it is your party. You get what you want. Don’t let cousin Jeff have his tunes from his band ruin a great vibe when their music would probably be beaten in the charts by a pneumatic drill. However, providing a list of songs for the DJ to work through throughout the night is fantastic. It gives the DJ an idea of what you like.
For example, if you give the DJ three or four songs from 2000’s that feature RnB artists, then we can work out what songs we can add to your list that will enhance your night. Having a list, and told to only play off the list restricts the DJ from using their experience to, well DJ. If you provide a lengthy list, DJs will play only off it, but most will tell the crowd the music has been hand picked by you. So pick really good songs!
If you provide a disco playlist the DJ can pick songs that fit into your list. Remember most of the night you are gonna be so busy enjoying yourself you may not hear that SpiceGirls song you love. Doesn’t mean the DJ didn’t play it. Check with your DJ if this is a service they offer. Some DJ’s are specific genre and will stay within that. You will be hiring them specifically for their talents, so make sure you understand the list might not et played if it doesn’t fit.
Careful what you wish for.
Before you hire a DJ, meet them. In our experience, we have come across clients that have had really poor experiences with resident DJs, or ‘professional’ DJs. Get a feel for who they are, and what they stand for before committing to hiring. We pride ourselves on being the service you need. This will help you to avoid:
- muffled sound system.
- poor lighting effects.
- the same songs played again and again.
- DJs looking bored.
Please, before you pay any money, do at least two fo the following:
- Met the DJ,
- Read a review,
- Ask for a recommendation,
- Been to one of their disco’s,
Doesn’t always end in a good evening
Sometimes a friend or relative will recommend a DJ, but then you provide a playlist. Remember that bit. You provide a disco playlist. If you have to use a resident DJ to the venue you have booked your party. Ask to meet them, contact them, talk to them. You will want to make sure the DJ will be great for you and your guests. If you want full control, provide them with a ‘play by play’ playlist. This is where you work out the songs, and tell the DJ to just play them in order. This is NOT recommended if you trust the DJ. They will likely know exactly what your guests will like, or be the DJ you want them to be.
Recommended tips:
- If you can, always meet the DJ. Either face to face, through a wedding showcase, or simply through social media. Trust me, their Instagram or Facebook posts should tell you how their parties go.
- Always try your best to give a list of songs, but remember to allow the DJ to chose if certain songs are not to be played. Allow the DJ to add songs, or play around your list. This means to put songs in that work with your list, and will keep the party going. This is the bit you are paying them to do. Of course, if there is a song or two you really want, highlight them.
- No need to request floor fillers. Have a read through our blog ‘5 things that can ruin your party! [Weddings, Engagements, and more]’ for reasons why playing power house tracks too soon is a bad idea.
Final thought.
If you want to ask your guests to request songs, that is fine. But please remember that you are giving control of your evening party to them. If they chose songs that are boring, or inappropriate but you have said they need to be played, we will play them. If through invites, vet them yourself before providing them to the DJ. You will see for yourself, not all guests know what’s best for a great disco. However, feel free to allow guests to request songs on the night. They may just surprise the DJ with a tune that they haven’t heard in a long time. We may even end up joining you on the DanceFloor.