The Wedding PlaylistThe Wedding Playlist

In this article I aim to cover many of the questions which many of my clients  ask me, and frequently it relates to the important wedding or party playlist.

What is the Wedding Playlist?

A wedding playlist is a song request list which is frequently sent to your wedding DJ by email in advance of your wedding reception. I would add at this point that not every couple has a list and it is simply meant to give your DJ a flavour of what you want played including the all important ‘first dance‘ of the evening.

Sometimes a client will compile a playlist which includes a request from each wedding of their guests which adds an additional nice touch to the wedding reception.

Bear in mind that during a typical 5 hour wedding reception or party a DJ will play approximately 80 or so songs.

How Long Should the Wedding Playlist Be?

This is a great question. I personally accept every playlist which a client sends to me regardless of the size of it. However, from my experience over the years, I would highly recommend limiting the size to no more than 25 songs. In my view. this virtually always works out the best balance. Why is this? Because:

  • it allows for your guests to make requests to the DJ throughout the party (assuming you are happy with guests making requests)
  • allows your professional DJ to use their experience & knowledge knowing what fits well to compliment your requests allowing him/her to keep the dance floor full.
  • A long playlist can be quite restrictive, may not flow well and often what you like, your guests may not!
  • Possibly the DJ will be unable to fit in all of the songs during the evening

Do I have to Have a Playlist?

No. Many of my clients will advise me their ‘first dance’ preference and a general guide in respect of their music taste and preferred genres and then leave the rest to the skill and experience of their DJ. It’s entirely up to you!

Can I expect the DJ to Have & Play all of my Requests?

Generally speaking, yes. It’s also important that the client ensures that the song title, artiste and version are correct to avoid misunderstandings!

Most DJ’s have a vast music collection or they are able to gain access to the song ensuring that your requests are played. Should a song be obscure and proving difficult to source, I would expect the DJ to inform the client to seek clarification and if necessary suggest an alternative song.

Obviously if the list is very long, the DJ simply won’t be able to get through all of the requests. In these circumstances, I would recommend highlighting the ‘must play’ songs in a long wedding playlist. I mentioned earlier in this article that during a typical 5 hour wedding reception the DJ will play less than 100 songs.

I would recommend songs on your wedding playlist should be ones to get your guests up and dancing rather than general background songs, although these are great early on in the proceedings or during a buffet interval.

The Don’t Play List

This is sometimes sent to the DJ specifically asking him/her not to play specific songs or possibly a certain genre of music. This is absolutely fine and a good idea.

Sending the List

I’d highly recommend that any wedding playlist is sent to the DJ at least 2 weeks prior to the wedding. Why is this?

  • To ensure that the DJ has time to listen to and source any additional tracks
  • Allow time to clarify any queries with the client

Anything Else?

If you are unsure of whether a track should be included or would like to clarify or seek advice from your DJ, you should not hesitate in doing so, as they are the experts and will have the experience to advise you.