Music Requests

An important topic that almost always comes up in our consultations is music requests at an event.  Some of the questions you may be asking yourself include;

Do I make a “special requests” list for my DJ?

Do I allow my guests to make requests?

Do I put my full trust in my DJ to pick the right songs at the right times?

When you book with Panico Entertainment Boston, you can be confident that you'll have the best of the best running the show. This way, you can sit back, relax, and focus on what matters -- partying.

We always allow your guests to come up and make requests (unless you instruct otherwise), and we'll typically play the requests based upon timing and the quality of the requested song. This “filter” approach is about being proactive, making sure that the songs played fit the crowd and bring the most excitement to the dance floor.  It also ensures that all requests played are appropriate for the particular occasion (and audience), and that they don't go against any of your special wishes for the event.

Lately, it seems like word has gotten out that DJs don't like requests. In defense of DJs everywhere, I would say this is a half-truth. Requests aren't the problem; it's the way people ask for them. For some clarity, we've put together a short list for your guests to consider when making song requests.

1. Don’t ask to see what songs we have. ​

DJ'ing is different from karaoke. We don't bring a book of songs for people to look through. Every DJ catalogues and arranges his or her music differently. More importantly, we’ve had extensive conversations with our clients on what music they want to hear prior to the big day, and we tailor the music we have prepared to play based on these lists. It’s simple: what songs do we have? We have the songs that the client—and therefore probably you—want to hear!

2. Do compliment us -- flattery will get you everywhere.

As a DJ, I work hard to make the event successful and fun, but it can be a major downer when someone is rude or aggressive. We appreciate people enjoying the music and telling us that they like what they hear! When we know you’re happy and we’re doing a good job, we’re excited to take your requests and see what music you’re into.

3. Don't get touchy-feely near the DJ booth.

We bring a lot of expensive equipment with us, and it can be quite nerve-racking when a guest is touching our gear, usually waving a drink around in the other hand. If you hit something accidentally or spill your drink, you can damage the equipment—or worse, cause an awkward moment by messing up the song queue or causing the music to stop playing entirely. Remember, our number one job is to keep the party going and the music flowing for the clients (the people who you're there for!). If you want to learn about the equipment, just ask. We love to show people how stuff works, but we prefer to do it when we are not in the middle of a mix—otherwise we risk getting distracted and messing up. DJs are perfectionists! 

4. Do know the song you want before coming to chat with us. ​

Our number one priority during the party, wedding or other event is to meet and exceed the musical expectations of the client and their guests. We need to be focused and concentrating on our craft to do so; therefore, we ask that you know the name of the song you’d like to hear before you come up to the booth to make a request. We’re happy to chat with you briefly about the music, but we do need to pay attention at all times, so the more you know before you come to speak with us, the more likely we are to be able to entertain your request!

5. Don't expect to hear your song request immediately.

Often, DJs have mixes ready to go and are building up for the right minute to drop your favorite song. If you trust our professional instincts and give us time to prepare, we can expertly work in the request in a cool musical way you may never expect. If you don't hear your song after a little while, it’s OK to politely remind us. You are the client, and we want you to be happy!

6. Do make sure to dance when you hear your request!

If we see you and fellow guests enjoying the music you requested, we are more apt to take further requests. Get up, boogie, and have a great time! That’s what we’re here to facilitate!

So what should you request? Here are some of the most requested songs our clients ask for as part of their special night:
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• "Home" - Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros
• "Marry You" - Bruno Mars
• "Party Rock Anthem" - LMFAO
• "Empire State of Mind" - Jay-Z feat. Alicia Keys
• "P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)" - Michael Jackson
• "Mr. Saxobeat" - Alexandra Stan
• "We Found Love" - Rihanna feat. Calvin Harris
• "One More Time" - Daft Punk
• "Just Dance" - Lady Gaga
• "Bulletproof" - La Roux
• "It's Tricky" - Run D.M.C.
• "Poison" - Bell Biv DeVoe
• "Firework" ​- Katy Perry

At Panico Entertainment, we happily take verbal requests and also provide simple request sheets where your guests can write down the name of the song(s) and artist(s) they want to hear. In addition to utilizing the request sheet, you can now text, tweet or even Facebook message your requests to your DJ in real-time if you don't want to leave the dancefloor! (Yes, we're serious... You'd be surprised at how often this option is utilized at parties, school dances, and even weddings!)

Text:  617.652.9195          Tweet: @djdrewpanico          Facebook: Panico Entertainment Boston

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to Panico Entertainment Boston.

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