The art of Song Requests
Wholesome DJ has been spinning tracks at weddings, corporate events and parties across Brisbane, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast for years. One question we get all the time is about song requests - how they work, when to make them and what makes for good request etiquette. So let's drop the beat on this topic!
Why Song Requests Matter
Song requests create that beautiful connection between you (our amazing guests) and us (your dedicated DJs). They help us understand what you're vibing with and allow us to craft an experience that feels personal. When done right, requests can take an event from good to unforgettable!
The Balancing Act
Here's the thing about DJing that many people don't realise - it's all about balance. We're constantly juggling:
Reading the room and maintaining the energy
Honoring the event host's preferences
Considering the diverse audience demographics
Creating smooth transitions between songs
And yes, incorporating your awesome requests!
It's like cooking a perfect meal - all ingredients need to work together, even that special spice you want to add!
It takes time to curate the perfect playlist.
The Pre-Event Preparation Reality
It's important to understand that professional DJs don't just show up and play random tracks. We typically spend hours preparing music specifically tailored to each event. Before your wedding, corporate function or birthday bash, we've already curated playlists based on the client's brief, researched appropriate tracks for key moments and planned transitions that will keep the energy flowing.
This preparation is why spontaneous requests can sometimes be challenging to accommodate - they might not align with the carefully crafted musical journey we've designed or the specific instructions we've received from the event host.
When we do incorporate requests, we're actively working to blend them seamlessly into our planned set without disrupting the overall experience. This behind-the-scenes preparation is actually one of the most valuable services we provide!
Request Etiquette
Make your DJ happy
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Make your DJ happy 〰️
Want to be your DJ's favorite guest? Here's how:
DO:
Make requests early in the night when we have more flexibility to work them in
Be specific - "Uptown Funk by Bruno Mars" is much more helpful than "play something fun"
Consider the event type - requesting "WAP" at your grandmother's 80th birthday might not be the move!
Accept that not every request can be played (more on this below)
Use the request method we've set up - whether it's a digital system, request cards, or simply approaching the booth between songs
DON'T:
Request the same song multiple times if we haven't played it yet
Hover around the booth waiting for your song
Get upset if your request doesn't make it into the set
Request songs that dramatically shift the mood (like a slow ballad during peak dancing time)
Try to scroll through our music library yourself (seriously, we've had people try this!)
Why We Might Not Play Your Request
If we don't play your request, we promise it's not personal! Here are some common reasons:
The host has specifically asked us not to play certain songs or genres
The request doesn't match the current energy or would disrupt the flow
We've received many requests and are working through them
The song contains content inappropriate for the venue or audience
We don't have access to that particular track (yes, even in the streaming era, this happens!)
Our Approach
At Wholesome DJ, we pride ourselves on finding that perfect balance. We love your input and want to incorporate your musical tastes while keeping the overall event flowing beautifully. Before each event, we work with our clients to understand their must-plays, do-not-plays and the general vibe they're going for.
We also have various ways for guests to make requests, from our digital request system to good old-fashioned conversation (we're friendly, we promise!).
It's All About the Experience
At the end of the day, both DJs and guests want the same thing: an amazing, memorable event with great music that keeps people on the dance floor. When we work together with mutual respect and understanding, that's exactly what happens!
Got more questions about how we handle music at events? Ready to book Wholesome DJ for your next celebration? Drop us a line - we'd love to chat about creating the perfect soundtrack for your special day!
Until next time, keep those tunes pumping!