DJ Intelligence generates a list of the 200 songs most requested by mobile DJ clients over the past 12 months. The 2012 winners are now posted at Mobile Beat’s website.
Of course, just because a song is popular doesn't mean YOU have hear it at YOUR wedding. In fact, some of my clients go through a list like this to ferret out songs for their "Do Not Play" list!
Still, for most events, the DJ Intelligence Top 200 are sure-fire dance floor fillers. And ultimately, at the end of your reception, you'll be happiest if your guests were having a great time dancing.
For more information on DJ Intelligence, see www.DJIntelligence.com.
Showing posts with label music. Show all posts
Showing posts with label music. Show all posts
Sunday, January 6, 2013
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
My "expert picks" for Washingtonian blog posting on wedding songs
Check out Good Note DJ's current article in Washingtonian Magazine's wedding blog. They asked me to pick out one or two of my favorites for each category of wedding music. (When working with clients of course I have long lists for each category for the wedding couple to choose from) .
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Why I Still Use CDs
An article in the May 10 NY Times, "In Mobile Age, Sound Quality Takes a Step Back," reminds me of the reason why I still primarily play music from CDs rather than from mp3s.
The article notes that the music stored on computers and iPods is compressed. The amount of data in the original recording is reduced so as to speed up download times and to allow more songs to be stored on the device. Compression "shrinks the size of the files, eliminating some of the sounds and range contained on a CD."
(For example, a typical 4 minute song on a CD requires 40 MB of data. However, an mp3 file of that same song can be less than 4 MB -- containing less than one-tenth of the audio data on the CD. Even a higher quality mp3 of that same song is only about 6 or 7 MB -- still only about one-sixth of the audio data on the CD.)
As the NY Times reports, "compressed music files produce a crackly, tinnier, and thinner sound than music on CDs."
The reason most listeners don't notice the difference is that today's generation most often listens to music through a pair of iPod earbuds or through their computer speakers. These are adequate for that purpose. It's a trade-off between quality on the one hand and portability and convenience on the other.
But play that same compressed mp3 file through a $5,000 professional sound system like I use and, believe me, you CAN hear the difference between that and the original CD!
The article notes that the music stored on computers and iPods is compressed. The amount of data in the original recording is reduced so as to speed up download times and to allow more songs to be stored on the device. Compression "shrinks the size of the files, eliminating some of the sounds and range contained on a CD."
(For example, a typical 4 minute song on a CD requires 40 MB of data. However, an mp3 file of that same song can be less than 4 MB -- containing less than one-tenth of the audio data on the CD. Even a higher quality mp3 of that same song is only about 6 or 7 MB -- still only about one-sixth of the audio data on the CD.)
As the NY Times reports, "compressed music files produce a crackly, tinnier, and thinner sound than music on CDs."
The reason most listeners don't notice the difference is that today's generation most often listens to music through a pair of iPod earbuds or through their computer speakers. These are adequate for that purpose. It's a trade-off between quality on the one hand and portability and convenience on the other.
But play that same compressed mp3 file through a $5,000 professional sound system like I use and, believe me, you CAN hear the difference between that and the original CD!
Friday, April 2, 2010
Ceremony Music Confusion
There's a saying: Assumption is the mother of all screw-ups. (That's the polite version!)
Nowhere is this more true in at a wedding than when people make assumptions about when the ceremonial music should start. The troubles lie in the space between the PRELUDE music and the BRIDAL PARTY PROCESSIONAL.
During that time, various things can happen. Depending on the bride and groom's religious or ethnic custom:
Some people assume the prelude music should continue during those moments.
Some people assume there is silence. The prelude music ends, and there's no music until the bridesmaids start walking down the aisle.
Some people assume there is a separate song to be played for one or more of these moments (e.g,. a song for seating of the mothers).
Some people assume that whatever song has been selected for the bridal party processional should start playing during these moments (even though the bridesmaids themselves haven't yet come in).
And the funny thing is, everyone who makes one of these assumptions also assumes that "their" way IS "the way."
With years of experience as a wedding DJ, and providing music for people of various religions and ethnic backgrounds, I have concluded that the ONLY way to handle this correctly is: COMMUNICATION, not assumptions. I talk with the bride and groom in advance, and discuss with them exactly who will be walking down the aisle, and in what order, and what music (if any) should be played in the moments between the end of the prelude music and the processional of the bridesmaids!
Whether you're using a DJ or live musicians for your ceremonial music, I strongly suggest you do the same.
Nowhere is this more true in at a wedding than when people make assumptions about when the ceremonial music should start. The troubles lie in the space between the PRELUDE music and the BRIDAL PARTY PROCESSIONAL.
During that time, various things can happen. Depending on the bride and groom's religious or ethnic custom:
- the officiant might enter (if he's not already at the altar);
- the grandmothers and mothers might be seated (which might involve groomsmen doubling as ushers);
- the groom might enter (if he's not already at the altar);
- the groomsmen might enter before the bridesmaids (rather than being paired with bridesmaids for the processional).
Some people assume the prelude music should continue during those moments.
Some people assume there is silence. The prelude music ends, and there's no music until the bridesmaids start walking down the aisle.
Some people assume there is a separate song to be played for one or more of these moments (e.g,. a song for seating of the mothers).
Some people assume that whatever song has been selected for the bridal party processional should start playing during these moments (even though the bridesmaids themselves haven't yet come in).
And the funny thing is, everyone who makes one of these assumptions also assumes that "their" way IS "the way."
With years of experience as a wedding DJ, and providing music for people of various religions and ethnic backgrounds, I have concluded that the ONLY way to handle this correctly is: COMMUNICATION, not assumptions. I talk with the bride and groom in advance, and discuss with them exactly who will be walking down the aisle, and in what order, and what music (if any) should be played in the moments between the end of the prelude music and the processional of the bridesmaids!
Whether you're using a DJ or live musicians for your ceremonial music, I strongly suggest you do the same.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
"How many songs should we pick?" - Part 3
This is the third and final part of a 3-part article about how many songs you, the wedding couple, should pre-select for the general dancing portion of their reception.
As discussed in part 1 and part 2, my advice is: give your DJ as much GUIDANCE about the dance music as you want but keep your "MUST-PLAY" list to a reasonable length. That means leaving your DJ with considerable discretion to play a variety of music aimed at keeping the dance floor filled.
But what about your very valid concern that if you give the DJ too much discretion, he'll play music you DON'T want to hear?
There's an easy answer to that. In addition to telling the DJ the music you LIKE, tell him what you DON'T like. In fact, feel free to give him a "Do Not Play" list.
Some clients don't realize they don't have to micromanage the DJ's playlist to avoid songs they absolutely don't want to hear. If you don't want line dances like the "Electric Slide" played, just tell your DJ. If you want to steer clear of gangsta rap or any hiphop you find offensive, instruct your DJ accordingly. Not a country music fan? Tell your DJ to avoid it. Don't want to hear play "Brown Eyed Girl" because you associate it with an ex-boyfriend or ex-girlfriend? Just put it on your "Do Not Play" list.
Think of it like the food. If you're allergic to peanuts, you'd just tell the chef to not to use peanuts -- you wouldn't have to specify every ingredient in his recipe.
One final nuance: When compiling your "Do Not Play" list, tell your DJ whether these are to be avoided EVEN IF requested -- or whether they're not to be played UNLESS requested.
You never know what your Aunt Sally or Uncle Bob might come up to your DJ and request; it could be one of those line dances you're not fond of! After compiling a "Do Not Play" list, go through it a second time and see if you could tolerate any of the songs if a guest asks for them, or whether your DJ should deflect requests for them under any and all circumstances. As your DJ, I will honor your decision either way.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
"How many songs should we pick?" - Part 2
This is part 2 of a 3-part article on the wedding couple's selection of songs played during the general dancing portion of their reception.
Part 1 explained why you should give your DJ as much GUIDANCE about the dance music as you want but keep your "MUST-PLAY" list to a reasonable length. This part explains why.
If you give your DJ too many “must-play” songs for dancing, your DJ ends up having to “DJ by checklist." Here's what's wrong with DJ'ing by checklist.
- A good DJ plays songs that flow well together, taking into account the tempo, the style, and even how the one song ends and how the next one begins. This helps keep the dance floor filled. If he’s DJ’ing from a checklist, you’ll hear more abrupt transitions between one song and the next, which disrupts the flow of energy on the dance floor.
- A good DJ reads the crowd and adjusts his set lists based on the responses he's getting on the dance floor. DJ’ing from a checklist means reading a piece of paper, not reading the crowd.
- A good DJ tries to fit in some songs requested by your guests right there at the reception. When your parents, your siblings, or your dearest friends go up to the DJ and request a song they really want to dance to, do you really want him to say "No" because his playlist is already set in stone?
- A good DJ, with hundreds of events under his belt, knows all sorts of sure-fire dance music that you, the wedding couple, might not have thought of. You may know a lot of music, but chances are you don’t know all the musical nooks and crannies your DJ does. Do you really want to pay a DJ to NOT utilize his expertise?
Sometimes, the most fervent compilers of “must play” lists are guys who are avid listeners but not big dancers. Ladies, do you want your DJ to be playing your hipster husband’s favorite obscure indie bands that he likes to listen to rather than the songs your bridesmaids and girlfriends want to dance to?
Isn’t it fun to have an element of surprise and spontaneity at your reception? If nearly every song during dancing is one you’ve preselected, you’ve eliminated those sparks of surprise and spontaneity.
Your DJ, if he's good at his job, WILL incorporate a LOT of the music you specify but will mix it with other music that seems right for the occasion. If you don’t have confidence in your DJs judgment, or doubt your DJ’s commitment to incorporate your favorites while also satisfying your guests's varied tastes, you should hire a different DJ!
Still not convinced? In part 3 of this series, I’ll reveal a tactic that will greatly increase your confidence in giving your DJ discretion for the dance music while addressing your desire to shape his music selection.
Saturday, January 30, 2010
"How Many Songs Should We Pick?" - Part 1
This is a question I'm often asked by my wedding couples: "How many songs should we pick for the DJ to play?"
A good question. An important question. To answer it, though, we need to clarify two things.
First, how many songs should you pick for what? There are four kinds of music at a wedding: ceremony music, background music (for cocktails and dinner), music for special moments (such as First Dance and Parents Dance), and music for general dancing.
Let's focus on the last category, and so rephrase the question like this: "How many songs should you pick for the general dancing part of the reception?"
Second, what do you mean by "pick"? Do you mean "suggest" or "require?" Because that makes all the difference in the world! Failure to understand the difference can lead to miscommunication between DJ and client -- and to a mismatch between what the DJ is playing and what your guests want to dance to.
In my opinion, you should give your DJ as many suggestions for general dancing as you wish. You can suggest a smattering of songs or hundreds of songs. You can name song titles, artists, eras, genres -- whatever works for you. This gives your DJ a wide array from which to make his selections and work his magic on the dance floor. Or if you want to just give your DJ a few examples and let him take it from there, that's fine, too. So if the question is "How many songs should we suggest for general dancing," the answer is "As many or as few as you'd like!"
On the other hand, you should limit the number of songs you require your DJ to play during general dancing to no more than, say, one-quarter to one-third of the general dancing songs. During a typical hour of dancing, about 17-18 songs will be played. For two hours of general dancing, a common amount, that's about 35 songs. In that case, try to limit your list of "absolute must play" dance songs to about 10 or 12.
Remember, that number does not include the songs you specify for special moments like your First Dance or songs played during the Grand Entrance. Nor does it include songs you specify as background music during cocktails or dinner. We're just talking here about "must play" songs for everyone to dance to.
That being said, if you're my client and you wish to give me a larger number of "must play" songs, I will honor your instructions. After all, it's YOUR wedding. If you hire me and I agree to perform at your wedding, YOU are my boss for that event.
But as I wrote in a prior post, although you're the boss, it's my professional duty to help you be the best boss you can -- so that your wedding turns out great. And my advice is: don't go overboard on the "must play" songs. In my next post, I'll explain WHY I recommend that.
A good question. An important question. To answer it, though, we need to clarify two things.
First, how many songs should you pick for what? There are four kinds of music at a wedding: ceremony music, background music (for cocktails and dinner), music for special moments (such as First Dance and Parents Dance), and music for general dancing.
Let's focus on the last category, and so rephrase the question like this: "How many songs should you pick for the general dancing part of the reception?"
Second, what do you mean by "pick"? Do you mean "suggest" or "require?" Because that makes all the difference in the world! Failure to understand the difference can lead to miscommunication between DJ and client -- and to a mismatch between what the DJ is playing and what your guests want to dance to.
In my opinion, you should give your DJ as many suggestions for general dancing as you wish. You can suggest a smattering of songs or hundreds of songs. You can name song titles, artists, eras, genres -- whatever works for you. This gives your DJ a wide array from which to make his selections and work his magic on the dance floor. Or if you want to just give your DJ a few examples and let him take it from there, that's fine, too. So if the question is "How many songs should we suggest for general dancing," the answer is "As many or as few as you'd like!"
On the other hand, you should limit the number of songs you require your DJ to play during general dancing to no more than, say, one-quarter to one-third of the general dancing songs. During a typical hour of dancing, about 17-18 songs will be played. For two hours of general dancing, a common amount, that's about 35 songs. In that case, try to limit your list of "absolute must play" dance songs to about 10 or 12.
Remember, that number does not include the songs you specify for special moments like your First Dance or songs played during the Grand Entrance. Nor does it include songs you specify as background music during cocktails or dinner. We're just talking here about "must play" songs for everyone to dance to.
That being said, if you're my client and you wish to give me a larger number of "must play" songs, I will honor your instructions. After all, it's YOUR wedding. If you hire me and I agree to perform at your wedding, YOU are my boss for that event.
But as I wrote in a prior post, although you're the boss, it's my professional duty to help you be the best boss you can -- so that your wedding turns out great. And my advice is: don't go overboard on the "must play" songs. In my next post, I'll explain WHY I recommend that.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Checking the Lyrics Before Choosing the Song
Before picking songs for special moments like your First Dance, Parents Dance, or Last Dance, pay close attention to the lyrics to make sure they truly suit the moment.
Some songs with cheerful titles and refrains that at first blush seem to convey a positive message are actually about hurtful, unhappy experiences. Nothing wrong with those sorts of songs; many of the greatest songs ever written are sad songs. ... But they aren't the best choice for the spotlight dances at your wedding.
A few months ago, a wedding couple told me they were thinking of U2's "The Sweetest Thing" for their First Dance. Why? Because they were huge U2 fans and when they thought of that song, what came to mind was the refrain "Ain't love the sweetest thing." But I recalled the song had a darker side, and sure enough, upon closer listening, that song catalogs all the ways an unhappy lover has been mistreated by his mate, with the line about love's sweetness meant sarcastically. Not a good First Dance choice, as my client soon agreed.
Another song sometimes misconstrued is James Blunts' mega-hit "You're Beautiful." Sure, he sings very nicely and longingly about a beautiful woman, but it's a song about unrequited love. He's longing for a woman he realizes he'll never be with; in fact, he'll never even see again. A haunting lyric, a nice ballad, but not a song to signify wedded bliss, to say the least.
Thinking of the Green Day song with the refrain "I hope you had the time of your life" for your Last Dance? Well, think again. I love that song, but it's full title is "Good Riddance (Time Of Your Life)"; and it's really a cold brush-off song about the end of an affair. (On the other hand, the somewhat similarly titled "(I've Had) The Time of My Life" from the Dirty Dancing soundtrack IS a good choice for your Last Dance, its lyrics conveying lovely emotions.)
Sometimes, a song's lyrics can be TOO positive for the occasion. You don't want the father-daughter song to be overtly passionate or romantic. A couple of years ago, a Latin American bride sought my assistance in picking a song by her father's favorite singer, Julio Iglesias, but we ended up ruling out her initial choice because, after I obtained an English translation of the Spanish lyrics, it was apparent they were too sensual if not downright sexual.
Speaking of the father-daughter dance, I'm surprised to see Luther Vandross' "Dance With My Father" suggested on some wedding music lists. Now, that song is, without doubt, one of the most beautiful, moving songs ever written about parent-child relations, but the song is about a deceased father (in fact, he wrote it as a tribute to his own Dad, who passed away when Luther was only eight years old).
Take a moment to examine the lyrics before you finalize your choices for your special dances, to make sure the song's message is the right one for those memorable moments. If you don't recall the words, a quick Google search of the song's title plus the word "lyrics" will bring them up.
Some songs with cheerful titles and refrains that at first blush seem to convey a positive message are actually about hurtful, unhappy experiences. Nothing wrong with those sorts of songs; many of the greatest songs ever written are sad songs. ... But they aren't the best choice for the spotlight dances at your wedding.
A few months ago, a wedding couple told me they were thinking of U2's "The Sweetest Thing" for their First Dance. Why? Because they were huge U2 fans and when they thought of that song, what came to mind was the refrain "Ain't love the sweetest thing." But I recalled the song had a darker side, and sure enough, upon closer listening, that song catalogs all the ways an unhappy lover has been mistreated by his mate, with the line about love's sweetness meant sarcastically. Not a good First Dance choice, as my client soon agreed.
Another song sometimes misconstrued is James Blunts' mega-hit "You're Beautiful." Sure, he sings very nicely and longingly about a beautiful woman, but it's a song about unrequited love. He's longing for a woman he realizes he'll never be with; in fact, he'll never even see again. A haunting lyric, a nice ballad, but not a song to signify wedded bliss, to say the least.
Thinking of the Green Day song with the refrain "I hope you had the time of your life" for your Last Dance? Well, think again. I love that song, but it's full title is "Good Riddance (Time Of Your Life)"; and it's really a cold brush-off song about the end of an affair. (On the other hand, the somewhat similarly titled "(I've Had) The Time of My Life" from the Dirty Dancing soundtrack IS a good choice for your Last Dance, its lyrics conveying lovely emotions.)
Sometimes, a song's lyrics can be TOO positive for the occasion. You don't want the father-daughter song to be overtly passionate or romantic. A couple of years ago, a Latin American bride sought my assistance in picking a song by her father's favorite singer, Julio Iglesias, but we ended up ruling out her initial choice because, after I obtained an English translation of the Spanish lyrics, it was apparent they were too sensual if not downright sexual.
Speaking of the father-daughter dance, I'm surprised to see Luther Vandross' "Dance With My Father" suggested on some wedding music lists. Now, that song is, without doubt, one of the most beautiful, moving songs ever written about parent-child relations, but the song is about a deceased father (in fact, he wrote it as a tribute to his own Dad, who passed away when Luther was only eight years old).
Take a moment to examine the lyrics before you finalize your choices for your special dances, to make sure the song's message is the right one for those memorable moments. If you don't recall the words, a quick Google search of the song's title plus the word "lyrics" will bring them up.
Friday, January 8, 2010
Happy Birthday, Elvis
Today, January 8, 2010, would have been Elvis Presley's 75th birthday.
Some folks nowadays consider Elvis nothing but a bit of American kitsch. They couldn't be more wrong.
Simply put, in his day, Elvis was the king of rock'n'roll.
The lyrics to one of his songs says it best:
A poor man wants the oyster
A rich man wants the pearl
But the man who can sing when he hasn't got a thing
He's the king of the whole wide world
Come on let's sing, sing brother sing
'Cause the man who can sing when he hasn't got a thing
He's the king of the whole wide world
Thursday, December 31, 2009
DJ Intelligence Most Requested Songs of 2009
DJ Intelligence is a company that offers DJs and their clients access to a huge computerized database of songs. Every song requested through its software is tallied by the company (nearly 2 million requests over the past 12 months),
Its latest Most Requested Songs of 2009 charts are now available for PDF download from DJ Intelligence. These are songs requested for all occasions, wherever a DJ might be spinning, from weddings to parties.
Of course, just because a song is popular doesn't mean YOU have to like it, or hear it played at your wedding. In fact, discerning wedding couples will often go through lists like these to identify the songs they'll place on their "Do Not Play" list! But don't go overboard if you do that. Like them or not, these songs are there because masses of people voted for them with their feet (their dancing feet).
Additionally, DJ Intelligence tallies, compiles, and publishes charts just for weddings -- separate lists for the most requested First Dance songs, Father-Daughter songs, Cake-Cutting songs, etc. Those are available as PDF downloads here.
To tell the truth, I don't use DJ Intelligence's database in my own DJ business -- I compile my own song lists targeted to my clients and reflecting my own musical knowledge, and I have other ways of soliciting my clients' musical input. But I'd be a fool to ignore their charts entirely . . . and my Mama didn't raise no fool.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Rolling Stone's Best Songs of the Decade
Fast on the heels of Billboard's top-of-the-decade music lists comes one from Rolling Stone magazine. Unlike Billboard's sales-based list, Rolling Stone's list is merit-based, so to speak, reflecting the subjective artistic judgment of a panel of musicians and music experts (including the magazine's own editors).
The entire list of 100 best songs 2000-2009 is on Rolling Stone's website. Here are the ten highest vote-getters from the Rolling Stone panel:
- Gnarls Barkley, "Crazy"
- Jay Z, "99 Problems"
- Beyonce with Jay Z, "Crazy in Love"
- OutKast, "Hey Ya"
- M.I.A., "Paper Planes"
- White Stripes, "Seven Nation Army"
- Yeah Yeah Yeahs, "Maps
- Amy Winehouse, "Rehab"
- U2, "Beautiful Day"
- Eminem, "Stan"
If you're a music fan , you'll find it fun to go through Rolling Stone's list, read their comments on each song, and even listen to those you've missed (through the RS site's link to Rhapsody).
___________
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Billboard's Top Songs of the Decade
Hard to believe it, but in a few weeks, the first decade of the 21st century draws to a close.
To mark the occasion, Billboard Magazine, the leading music industry publication, has just posted its Best of the 2000s lists.
One category is top songs of the decade. This is not an artistic judgment; it's based strictly on sales and airplay. Likewise, I'm not saying these are my favorites, and they might not be yours. But when it comes to pop music, popularity counts -- that's what pop stands for, after all!
Here they are, in order:
- Black Eyed Peas "I Gotta Feeling"
- Mariah Carey "We Belong Together"
- Usher with Lil Jon & Ludacris "Yeah"
- Eminem "Lose Yourself"
- Black Eyed Peas "Boom Boom Pow"
- Destiny's Child "Independent Women Part I"
- Beyonce "Irreplaceable"
- Ashanti "Foolish"
- Kanye West with Jamie Foxx "Gold Digger"
- Nelly with Kelly Rowland "Dilemma"
- Flo Rida with T-Pain "Low"
- Santana with The Product G&B "Maria Maria"
All of those songs spent at least 10 weeks atop Billboard's Hot 100 chart between 2000 and 2009.
Of these recent mega-hits, the ones I find most requested nowadays at wedding receptions are "I Gotta Feeling," "Yeah," "Irreplaceable," "Gold Digger," and "Low." Of course, I always play the clean edits of these songs.
____________
Sunday, November 22, 2009
44 Weddings, 42 First Dance Songs (2009)
As the year draws to a close, I thought it'd be fun to compile and post a complete list of the First Dance songs chosen by my 2009 wedding couples (including two whose weddings are coming up over the next few weekends).
The list is refreshingly diverse: old standards, indie rock, R&B ballads, classic rock, country, a Broadway show tune, a Latin song.
Many of the songs were already on the extensive list of suggested First Dance songs I give my clients; a few were new to me but are now included in my suggested list; and a few were outlier picks that I don't expect to use again (which is fine, the First Dance choice is very much the bride and groom's personal choice).
Of the songs below, only two were used more than once by my 2009 wedding couples: Etta James' "At Last" and Ben Folds' "The Luckiest." I performed at 44 weddings this year, and played 42 different First Dance songs, sung by 39 different artists. (Besides Etta James and Ben Folds, the Foo Fighters and Frank Sinatra were represented twice.)
Here's the honor roll: the First Dances of Good Note's 2009 newlyweds:
The list is refreshingly diverse: old standards, indie rock, R&B ballads, classic rock, country, a Broadway show tune, a Latin song.
Many of the songs were already on the extensive list of suggested First Dance songs I give my clients; a few were new to me but are now included in my suggested list; and a few were outlier picks that I don't expect to use again (which is fine, the First Dance choice is very much the bride and groom's personal choice).
Of the songs below, only two were used more than once by my 2009 wedding couples: Etta James' "At Last" and Ben Folds' "The Luckiest." I performed at 44 weddings this year, and played 42 different First Dance songs, sung by 39 different artists. (Besides Etta James and Ben Folds, the Foo Fighters and Frank Sinatra were represented twice.)
Here's the honor roll: the First Dances of Good Note's 2009 newlyweds:
Allison Krauss, “When You Say Nothing At All”
Babyface, “Every Time I Close My Eyes”
Beach Boys, “God Only Knows”
Ben E. King, “Stand By Me”
Ben Folds, “The Luckiest”
Ben Harper, “Forever”
Big & Rich, “Eternity”
Bobby Darin, “Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square”
Brad Paisley, “Then”
Chicago, “You’re the Inspiration”
Johnny Hartman with John Coltrane, “My One and Only Love”
Eric Benet, “Spend My Life With You”
Etta James, “At Last”
Etta James, “Sunday Kind of Love”
Eva Cassidy, “Songbird”
Foo Fighters, “Miracle”
Foo Fighters, “Everlong” (acoustic version)
Frank Sinatra, “Love Is Here to Stay”
Frank Sinatra,“Night and Day”
Frankie Valli, “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You”
Harry Connick Jr, “The Way You Look Tonight”
Israel "Iz" Kamakawiwo'ole, “Over the Rainbow”
James Morrison, “Better Man”
Jason Mraz ,“I’m Yours”
Josie de Guzman, “If I Were a Bell” [from Broadway's "Guys and Dolls"]
Journey, “Open Arms”
Juanes, “La vida es un Ratico”
Lionel Richie, “Stuck on You”
Little Big Town, “To Know Love”
Lone Star, “Amazed”
Norah Jones, “Come Away With Me”
Oasis, “Let There Be Love”
Prince,“Adore”
Rachael Yamagata, “Meet Me By The Water”
Rascal Flatts, “Bless the Broken Road”
Sam & Dave, “Hold On I’m Coming”
Sister Hazel, “This Kind of Love”
Stevie Wonder, “You Are the Sunshine of My Life”
The Notwist, “Consequence”
Tom Waits, “Sea of Love”
Van Morrison, “Crazy Love”
Wings (with Paul McCartney), “My Love”
Babyface, “Every Time I Close My Eyes”
Beach Boys, “God Only Knows”
Ben E. King, “Stand By Me”
Ben Folds, “The Luckiest”
Ben Harper, “Forever”
Big & Rich, “Eternity”
Bobby Darin, “Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square”
Brad Paisley, “Then”
Chicago, “You’re the Inspiration”
Johnny Hartman with John Coltrane, “My One and Only Love”
Eric Benet, “Spend My Life With You”
Etta James, “At Last”
Etta James, “Sunday Kind of Love”
Eva Cassidy, “Songbird”
Foo Fighters, “Miracle”
Foo Fighters, “Everlong” (acoustic version)
Frank Sinatra, “Love Is Here to Stay”
Frank Sinatra,“Night and Day”
Frankie Valli, “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You”
Harry Connick Jr, “The Way You Look Tonight”
Israel "Iz" Kamakawiwo'ole, “Over the Rainbow”
James Morrison, “Better Man”
Jason Mraz ,“I’m Yours”
Josie de Guzman, “If I Were a Bell” [from Broadway's "Guys and Dolls"]
Journey, “Open Arms”
Juanes, “La vida es un Ratico”
Lionel Richie, “Stuck on You”
Little Big Town, “To Know Love”
Lone Star, “Amazed”
Norah Jones, “Come Away With Me”
Oasis, “Let There Be Love”
Prince,“Adore”
Rachael Yamagata, “Meet Me By The Water”
Rascal Flatts, “Bless the Broken Road”
Sam & Dave, “Hold On I’m Coming”
Sister Hazel, “This Kind of Love”
Stevie Wonder, “You Are the Sunshine of My Life”
The Notwist, “Consequence”
Tom Waits, “Sea of Love”
Van Morrison, “Crazy Love”
Wings (with Paul McCartney), “My Love”
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Happy 100th Birthday, Johnny Mercer
One of the joys of being a wedding DJ is the opportunity to share with people the glorious musical repertoire known as the "Great American Songbook." Those are the classic, jazzy songs written in the 1920s through 1950s and made famous by singers like Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Ella Fitzgerald, and Fred Astaire. They continue to charm audiences in new renditions by contemporary crooners like Michael Buble and Diana Krall and through their insertion in so many Hollywood romantic movies. This was in fact THE popular music in America in the pre-rock'n'roll era.
Today marks the 100th birthday of one of the greatest songwriters from those Tin Pan Alley days: Johnny Mercer, born November 18, 1909 in Savannah, Georgia. Best known as a lyricist, he was also a popular singer in his day, and he co-founded Capitol Records.
You can thank Johnny Mercer for such romantic favorites as "Satin Doll" (co-written with Duke Ellington), "Moon River" (co-written with Henry Mancini), "Come Rain or Come Shine" (co-written with Harold Arlen), and "Too Marvelous for Words" (co-written with Richard Whiting).
He also wrote such of the best "torch" songs -- sad ballads like "Blues In the Night," "One for My Baby (One More for the Road," and "Autumn Leaves," which I'm less likely to play at your wedding but which are beautiful, haunting tunes.
Overall, he wrote or co-wrote over 1,200 songs, hundreds of them hits or featured prominently in movies and Broadway shows. He must have died a very rich man, but I don't begrudge him his millions in song royalties --he enriched our lives forever, and his tunes continue to enrich wedding receptions to this day.
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Today marks the 100th birthday of one of the greatest songwriters from those Tin Pan Alley days: Johnny Mercer, born November 18, 1909 in Savannah, Georgia. Best known as a lyricist, he was also a popular singer in his day, and he co-founded Capitol Records.
You can thank Johnny Mercer for such romantic favorites as "Satin Doll" (co-written with Duke Ellington), "Moon River" (co-written with Henry Mancini), "Come Rain or Come Shine" (co-written with Harold Arlen), and "Too Marvelous for Words" (co-written with Richard Whiting).
He also wrote such of the best "torch" songs -- sad ballads like "Blues In the Night," "One for My Baby (One More for the Road," and "Autumn Leaves," which I'm less likely to play at your wedding but which are beautiful, haunting tunes.
Overall, he wrote or co-wrote over 1,200 songs, hundreds of them hits or featured prominently in movies and Broadway shows. He must have died a very rich man, but I don't begrudge him his millions in song royalties --he enriched our lives forever, and his tunes continue to enrich wedding receptions to this day.
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Monday, November 2, 2009
Rock'N'Roll Wedding Bands
Interesting article in the Sunday (Nov. 1) New York Times about what the reporter terms "one of New York’s premier wedding bands for people who would never dream of hiring a wedding band." The group, The Dexter Lake Club Band, is a raucous rock band with a rakish rock'n'roll attitude -- not the typical tuxedo-clad all-purpose wedding band. Yet they specialize in wedding gigs.
The article portrays the group as a fun alternative to the traditional wedding band, but not without some drawbacks.
The band plays a wide range of popular covers, but unabashedly balks at playing others, even if requested. A more conventional wedding band (or DJ) will play whatever the bride and groom and their families and friends wish to hear.
This band actually puts a clause in its contract giving them access to the bar. Normally, a professional wedding vendor would never dream of drinking on the job, much less demand it!
And, if the article is to be believed, the group will at times purposely play unappealing songs if they feel put upon by the mother of the bride or aren't happy with the vendor meal. That rebellious stance befits the rock'n'roll mystique but strikes me as sketchy when we're talking about somebody's wedding!
Two rock'n'roll/R&B bands here in the Washington DC area that qualify as nontraditional wedding bands but without the naughty behavior of the group profiled in the Times -- are The Grandsons and The Johnny Artis Band . Both bands listed as among Washingtonian Magazine's "Best Wedding Vendors" (as, I'm proud to say, am I).
_____
The article portrays the group as a fun alternative to the traditional wedding band, but not without some drawbacks.
The band plays a wide range of popular covers, but unabashedly balks at playing others, even if requested. A more conventional wedding band (or DJ) will play whatever the bride and groom and their families and friends wish to hear.
This band actually puts a clause in its contract giving them access to the bar. Normally, a professional wedding vendor would never dream of drinking on the job, much less demand it!
And, if the article is to be believed, the group will at times purposely play unappealing songs if they feel put upon by the mother of the bride or aren't happy with the vendor meal. That rebellious stance befits the rock'n'roll mystique but strikes me as sketchy when we're talking about somebody's wedding!
Two rock'n'roll/R&B bands here in the Washington DC area that qualify as nontraditional wedding bands but without the naughty behavior of the group profiled in the Times -- are The Grandsons and The Johnny Artis Band . Both bands listed as among Washingtonian Magazine's "Best Wedding Vendors" (as, I'm proud to say, am I).
_____
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
A Rockin' Recessional
Here's an idea that I think is fun, and that ends your ceremony with a bit of a kick.
Lots of brides and grooms who choose traditional classical music for most of their ceremony -- the prelude and processional music -- switch to a rock'n'roll, R&B, or pop song for their recessional. The recessional, of course, is the song played just after the officiant pronounces you husband and wife, and you walk together back up the aisle, away from the altar.
Here are just some examples of songs for a rockin' recessional:
With their lyrics about the joys of love, these songs suit the moment when you've just been presented as husband and wife, and have shared that first married kiss. And with their upbeat tempo, they signal to the guests that, with the ceremony over, the party is about to begin!
__________
Lots of brides and grooms who choose traditional classical music for most of their ceremony -- the prelude and processional music -- switch to a rock'n'roll, R&B, or pop song for their recessional. The recessional, of course, is the song played just after the officiant pronounces you husband and wife, and you walk together back up the aisle, away from the altar.
Here are just some examples of songs for a rockin' recessional:
- "Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now" by McFadden & Whitehead
- "All You Need Is Love" by The Beatles
- "Beautiful Day" by U2
- "Crazy Little Thing Called Love" by Queen
- "Happy Together" by The Turtles
- "Higher and Higher" by Jackie Wilson
- "Hold On, I'm Coming" by Sam & Dave
- "I Got You (I Feel Good)" by James Brown
- "I Walk The Line" by Johnny Cash
- "I'm a Believer" by The Monkees OR Smash Mouth
- "It's Too Late To Turn Back Now" by Cornelius Bros. & Sister Rose
- "Let's Stay Together" by Al Green
- "Signed Sealed Delivered" by Stevie Wonder
- "With This Ring" by The Platters
With their lyrics about the joys of love, these songs suit the moment when you've just been presented as husband and wife, and have shared that first married kiss. And with their upbeat tempo, they signal to the guests that, with the ceremony over, the party is about to begin!
__________
Friday, September 11, 2009
BEATLE-MANIA
To succeed at wedding receptions, a DJ must play dance music that appeals to guests from a wide range of ages.
A good DJ does this by playing a wide variety of styles during the reception -- playing sets of music from 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, and so on -- varying his selections to appeal to one age group or another.
Even better for DJs are those songs and artists so universally known and loved, they appeal to many guests of all ages.
The Beatles are one such group. I know this from experience as a DJ. But now I also know it from a recent study by the Pew Research Center, a highly respected think-tank. In its report on current trends in generational attitudes among Americans, Pew concluded that "there is one area of culture that members of every generation can agree on: music, and more specifically, the Beatles."
The 2009 Pew study found the Beatles the most popular performers in America across-the-board, with roughly half of all Americans liking the Beatles "a lot" and four out of five liking them at least "a little." No other performer scored as high.
Affinity for the Beatles is so widespread across generations that they were only performers scoring in the top five in ALL the age-groups surveyed (16-29 years, 30-49 years, 50-64 years, and 65+ years)!
No wonder the newly remastered reissues of the Beatles on CD are creating such a buzz. At the time I write this, the reissued Beatles albums hold 9 out of 10 slots in Amazon.com's list of music top-sellers.
A good DJ does this by playing a wide variety of styles during the reception -- playing sets of music from 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, and so on -- varying his selections to appeal to one age group or another.
Even better for DJs are those songs and artists so universally known and loved, they appeal to many guests of all ages.
The Beatles are one such group. I know this from experience as a DJ. But now I also know it from a recent study by the Pew Research Center, a highly respected think-tank. In its report on current trends in generational attitudes among Americans, Pew concluded that "there is one area of culture that members of every generation can agree on: music, and more specifically, the Beatles."
The 2009 Pew study found the Beatles the most popular performers in America across-the-board, with roughly half of all Americans liking the Beatles "a lot" and four out of five liking them at least "a little." No other performer scored as high.
Affinity for the Beatles is so widespread across generations that they were only performers scoring in the top five in ALL the age-groups surveyed (16-29 years, 30-49 years, 50-64 years, and 65+ years)!
No wonder the newly remastered reissues of the Beatles on CD are creating such a buzz. At the time I write this, the reissued Beatles albums hold 9 out of 10 slots in Amazon.com's list of music top-sellers.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
RODRIGO & GABRIELLA ... and FOO FIGHTERS UNPLUGGED
In my August 17 post I mentioned how my clients sometimes bring to my attention wonderful music that I hadn't heard before.
Two recent examples come to mind.
A couple getting married this September told me they'd like to hear some Rodrigo Y Gabriela as during dinner. I must admit, I wasn't familiar with them, but I quickly filled that gap in my musical database. It turns out Rodrigo & Gabriela are an extraordinary guitar duo -- from Mexico but based in Ireland -- who play a fiery, edgy blend of Central and South American and world music. They're like a stripped-down, acoustic version of the Gipsy Kings. Wonderful stuff, and very suitable if you want something a bit different during cocktails or dinner.
A couple whose wedding was earlier this month wanted the Foo Fighters' "Everlong" for their First Dance. One doesn't normally think of that noted grunge-rock group as a source of First Dance material, but this couple had come across a lovely acoustic renditon of the song. It took some digging to find a downloadable version, but after getting it, I not only played it as their First Dance but also added that song, with its poignant, emotionally-charged lyrics, to my list of suggested First Dance tunes for future clients.
Two recent examples come to mind.
A couple getting married this September told me they'd like to hear some Rodrigo Y Gabriela as during dinner. I must admit, I wasn't familiar with them, but I quickly filled that gap in my musical database. It turns out Rodrigo & Gabriela are an extraordinary guitar duo -- from Mexico but based in Ireland -- who play a fiery, edgy blend of Central and South American and world music. They're like a stripped-down, acoustic version of the Gipsy Kings. Wonderful stuff, and very suitable if you want something a bit different during cocktails or dinner.
A couple whose wedding was earlier this month wanted the Foo Fighters' "Everlong" for their First Dance. One doesn't normally think of that noted grunge-rock group as a source of First Dance material, but this couple had come across a lovely acoustic renditon of the song. It took some digging to find a downloadable version, but after getting it, I not only played it as their First Dance but also added that song, with its poignant, emotionally-charged lyrics, to my list of suggested First Dance tunes for future clients.
Monday, August 17, 2009
MUSICAL KNOWLEDGE - A TWO-WAY STREET
It's often said that the best teachers don't just teach; they learn from their students.
Likewise, the best DJ's learn from their clients. The best DJ's understand that sharing knowledge of music is a two-way street.
I'm something of an expert in music, but I didn't get that way by sticking to what I already knew. Over the years, I've considerably expanded the scope of my knowledge (and vast collection) of music. Some of my most interesting discoveries have come from my clients.
When I meet with a wedding couple and go over their musical requests, I don't dismiss or ignore any artists or songs I'm unfamiliar with. In fact, one of the first things I do upon returning to my office after a planning meeting is to check these out -- read up about them, listen to excerpts, and download them (or order the CD). That way, I am able to satisfy ALL of that couple's musical needs -- not just those I already know or have. And that way, I constantly expand the musical repertoire I can offer to future clients.
Likewise, the best DJ's learn from their clients. The best DJ's understand that sharing knowledge of music is a two-way street.
I'm something of an expert in music, but I didn't get that way by sticking to what I already knew. Over the years, I've considerably expanded the scope of my knowledge (and vast collection) of music. Some of my most interesting discoveries have come from my clients.
When I meet with a wedding couple and go over their musical requests, I don't dismiss or ignore any artists or songs I'm unfamiliar with. In fact, one of the first things I do upon returning to my office after a planning meeting is to check these out -- read up about them, listen to excerpts, and download them (or order the CD). That way, I am able to satisfy ALL of that couple's musical needs -- not just those I already know or have. And that way, I constantly expand the musical repertoire I can offer to future clients.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
"DO NOT PLAY"
What the DJ doesn't play can be almost as important as what he does play. Your wedding DJ should respect any "do not play" list of songs you provide him.
In fact, your wedding DJ should ask you in advance to provide him with your "do not play" list. He can even help you by mentioning examples of songs other clients have vetoed. If you're not strongly opposed to any songs, that's fine. But it's your wedding; you should have the option of excluding songs you really don't want.
There's an important additional step that some DJ's overlook. After receiving a "do not play" list, he should ask you: "Should I not play these EVEN IF requested? Or would it be okay to play any of these IF a guest requests it?"
This clarification is important. You'd be surprised how often the very song that you dislike, or think inappropriate, is the very one your Aunt Margaret or your Cousin Bob comes up to the DJ and requests! So you'll want to instruct your DJ in advance how to handle the request of a "do not play" song.
In fact, your wedding DJ should ask you in advance to provide him with your "do not play" list. He can even help you by mentioning examples of songs other clients have vetoed. If you're not strongly opposed to any songs, that's fine. But it's your wedding; you should have the option of excluding songs you really don't want.
There's an important additional step that some DJ's overlook. After receiving a "do not play" list, he should ask you: "Should I not play these EVEN IF requested? Or would it be okay to play any of these IF a guest requests it?"
This clarification is important. You'd be surprised how often the very song that you dislike, or think inappropriate, is the very one your Aunt Margaret or your Cousin Bob comes up to the DJ and requests! So you'll want to instruct your DJ in advance how to handle the request of a "do not play" song.
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