For a long time, we regularly hear that there is a war between live bands and DJs. Moreover, a question remains very popular when clients contact an agency or a production to hire music services: which is better between hiring a DJ or a live band?

I am therefore taking advantage of this first post to present to you all the aspects to consider when you wish to hire musical services. The goal here is not to oppose the options with a simple pro or con, but to bring out as much information as possible so that your choice is more informed when you want to request quotes.

Parlons DJ

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One thing that is very important to check with the DJ is the repertoire you want to hear during your party. Don’t be afraid to ask for background music during cocktails and dinner. Most DJs are equipped with this kind of music and you will avoid eating in a hurry while listening to Rock and Roll! Afterwards, plan to ask for the tempo and volume to be increased in order to attract people to the dance floor after dinner.

The major advantage with the DJ option is that only one person can provide the musical component of your event, so it is ideal for people with a smaller budget.

Animation

Not all DJs are comfortable hosting a party. If you want to have a host, make sure the DJ has experience in this area. If this is not the case, it is often possible to add this option in your request.

In the event that you only want one person in charge of the music without animation, but you want to take part of the evening to do a few presentations, ask that the DJ provide a wireless microphone for you to use.

The major advantage with the DJ option is that only one person can provide the musical component of your event, so it is ideal for people with a smaller budget.

PA system

It is always difficult to estimate a price for renting sound equipment. Indeed, several factors can influence the pricing such as: the place and date of the event, the number of people invited and the size of the room.

The best way to get a good estimate is to know as much information as possible when requesting pricing.

The musical groups, them!

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Most bands have a cover-type vocation, that is to say, they play hits from all decades. It is therefore very useful for the group to have an idea of the age range that will be present at your event so that the group can establish a repertoire adapted to your evening. In addition, it is also possible to make some special requests to the group. However, be sure to plan ahead, as the band may have to arrange and rehearse the piece before the night of your event. Therefore, a group has every right to refuse this request if your request is made the day before.

Of course, it is possible to obtain a copy of the repertoire (set list) of the group you wish to hire. On our side, we have added a Spotify list so that you can listen to some songs from the repertoire of the bands you are interested in to get a better idea.

PA system

You should anticipate that all musical groups hired for the dance part will have technical needs.

The vast majority of groups offer a turnkey option that combines sound and lighting. If you already have a supplier, it is possible to do business with the group in question, but they will send you a technical estimate that you will forward to the technical director of the event.

A DJ and a live band for the same event?

 

This option is always possible, for example if you want to have a live show and your evening continues until the wee hours of the morning, it may be appropriate to have both options on site. It goes without saying that the price will be higher. Some groups often work with a DJ who accompanies them. This way, you avoid asking for two quotes for the same event.

You can also ask the live band to take care of the music during the cocktail. Like the group
already on site, it will then be possible to obtain a ski pass. On the other hand, the group will give the mandate to put music between performances to the sound technician who will not have a repertoire as imposing as a DJ, which makes special requests more difficult.

In conclusion, remember that the key is always to communicate your expectations to the person in charge, hence the importance of feeling confident with this person from the first contact.