Talking the talk...
Saturday, 1 August 2009
I got asked a strange question whilst DJing last night: "Do you talk?"
At first, I wondered exactly what he meant. I'd announced that the buffet was open and introduced a karaoke singer. It was obvious that I had a tongue in my head. After a brief discussion, it turned out that he wanted me to get on the mic and encourage people to dance. I pointed out that the floor was already full and talking over the music would just interrupt the flow. He simply shrugged and walked away.
Although he'd consumed his (and Amy Winehouse's) share of alcohol, his words got me thinking, should I be more vocal during a disco gig? I've heard other wedding DJs committing the cardinal sin of introducing each song as if working on a commercial radio station. That's definitely overkill, as if you're picking the right songs, the music should speak for itself. Unless it's a request for a specific person (a 'shout out' if you will) then keep schtum.
I'm totally at home with a microphone. As a former cruise ship compere, I've been trained to engage audiences and keep them interested. I host quizzes at weddings, introduce couples, organise dance-offs (Run DMC vs Jason Nevins is very popular!) and generally keep things ticking over. I regularly host the Galpharm Stadium's wedding fayre fashion show and of course, introduce songs during our live singing sets. But here's my point for today (and you knew there was one was coming!)
When it comes to DJ chatter, less is more
During the evening, numbers on the dancefloor naturally ebb and flow. Dancing is hard work and everyone needs a drink (or a sit, or a even a smoke) to allow them to keep going. Every DJ hates an empty floor but it's important not to panic and start cajoling people to get up. You can't enjoy a wedding when you're being hassled with someone with a mic.
On the other hand, I'm often booked for gigs where they want a 'personality' to get people moving. These are corporate gigs more often than weddings as the 'colleagues night out' mentality usually leads to a more raucus affair.
These nights are great as we can bring different departments together with quizzes, games and themed activities. But they're totally different to weddings.
So should I talk more at weddings that are already running smoothly? After much soul searching, I've decided...(drum roll)...no. Anti-climax, eh?
What I will do is speak the the bride and groom beforhand and ask exactly what they want. Some already know. Last month, I had an email asking me to announce the buffet, last orders and nothing else. It was a brilliant party and people danced all night without me telling them they had to. Perfect!
But all couples are different and have an idea of a perfect reception in their heads. We just have to ask the right questions at their consultation and ensure we get it right!
Labels: commercial radio, corporate disco, DJ chatter, song requests, theme night, wedding consultation, wedding dj, wedding entertainment, wedding reception
posted by James McCann @ 20:09,
