For a long time, we have regularly heard that there is a war between live musical groups and DJs. Moreover, a question remains very popular when clients contact an agency or a production in order to hire musical 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 contrast the options with a simple for or against, but to bring out as much information as possible so that your choice is more informed when you want to make a request for submissions.
Let’s talk DJ
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One thing that is very important to check with the DJ is the repertoire you want to hear at your party. Don’t be afraid to ask for background music during cocktails and dinner. Most DJs are equipped with this type of music and you will avoid eating in a hurry by listening to Rock and Roll! Afterward, plan to ask for the tempo and volume to be increased 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 aspect of your event, so it is ideal for people with a smaller budget.
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Not all DJs are comfortable with hosting a party. If you want to have a host, make sure the DJ has experience in this field. If this is not the case, it is often possible to add this option to your request.
In the event that you only want one person in charge of the music without entertainment, but you want to take part of the evening to do some presentations, ask that the DJ provide a wireless microphone that you can use.
The major advantage with the DJ option is that only one person can provide the musical aspect of your event, so it is ideal for people with a smaller budget.
Sound system
It is always difficult to estimate a price for renting sound equipment. Indeed, several factors can influence pricing such as: the location 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.
Musical groups, them!
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Most groups have a covers 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. Additionally, it is also possible to make some special requests to the group. On the other hand, make sure to book in advance, because the group will potentially have to make the arrangement and rehearse the piece before the evening of your event. Therefore, a group has every right to refuse this request if your request is made the day before.
Obviously, it is possible to obtain a copy of the set list of the group you wish to hire. For our part, we have added a Spotify list so that you can listen to some songs from the repertoire of the groups that interest you to get a better idea.
Sound system
You will need to anticipate that any musical groups hired for the dance portion 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 quote which 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 early hours of the morning, it may be relevant 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 requesting two quotes for the same event.
You can also ask the live band to take care of the music during the cocktail party. Like the group
already there, it will then be possible to obtain a package. On the other hand, the group will give the mandate to put music between performances to the sound technician who will not have as impressive a repertoire 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.
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