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Should party guests make song requests? For me, it depends on the type of party it is. Not everyone makes great requests. Does the client want everyone to have a chance to ask for a bad song, only to clear the dance floor? Events such as school dances, networking, and fundraisers typically don’t have a reliance on a successful dance floor, to make it memorable.
Every party is different. Every crowd is different. I’ve had parties where I was able to play every request and the night was a hit. I’ve had other events where requests were welcomed by the client and the dance floor cleared.
Corporate receptions and weddings tend to rely on the dance floor, to say it was a good time. Corporate events have more flexibility on random requests. The guests are often from around the nation or even the world. When you have that much diversity in one room, requests are almost needed. It gives the DJ an idea of what type of crowd is attending.
Weddings are generally the most complicated time to play requests. It’s the bride and groom’s night. It’s their vision. It’s what they have been planning for a year. Then, you have a random guest ask for the most obscure song. As a DJ, you know it’s probably not gonna work. The bride and groom gave you a list of songs they like, the obscure request is nothing like it. Does the DJ play it? Will the requester get mad, if the DJ doesn’t play it?
Song requests are predetermined for events I DJ. They are typically “client-list only, DJ’s choice, or client list + DJ choice.” Ultimately, it’s the client’s party. They get final say.
“Client-list only” has become a hit lately. It takes the burden off the DJ. This allows the client to hear all of their songs. The DJ can deny a request and have no guest get mad. “Sorry, the bride and groom have stated no requests tonight.” This eases any negative tension the requester might have on the DJ.
Some clients don’t really have a preference and make it “DJ’s choice.” I like this format as well. I can read the room and go in a direction the crowd is taking us. The ability to hold off on a request is nice. I do try and play requests at the right time. Sometimes, they just don’t work.
“Client list + DJ choice” is my favorite option. The client gets their songs played, with a touch of the DJ’s room reading. Sometimes, just a handful of songs are needed to get the crowd going. Having the ability to add a DJ’s choice can alter a dance floor tremendously. The goal is to help make the client’s vision into a successful party.
As with many events, there is no constant answer. There are plenty of variables to have a successful party. It’s the DJ’s job to work with the client and crowd. It’s all about picking the right DJ for your event. Pick a DJ that is open to your requests. Some DJ’s only stick to their likes. Some DJ’s are limited in music genres. Make sure they are the right fit for your event. Check out this blog for my insight. https://djronnieroux.com/2025/01/picking-a-dj-for-your-event/
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