While DJs are musicians who love entertaining and interacting with their audience, certain questions should be avoided to maintain a positive and respectful relationship.
What Not To Ask A DJ?
Below are questions you should never ask a DJ:
1. “Can you play [insert obscure song]? I doubt anyone else will know it.”
As a DJ, it is our job to create a playlist that will appeal to the majority of our audience. Asking for an obscure or niche song is unrealistic and disrespectful to the rest of the guests.
2. “Can you lower your price? I’ve seen other DJs who charge less.”
Just like any other professional service, our rates are based on our experience, skills, and equipment. Trying to negotiate our price can be insulting and devaluing.
3. “Can you skip this song? I don’t like it.”
As much as we want everyone to enjoy the music, we cannot cater to each individual’s personal taste. It disrupts the flow of the party and can make it impossible to meet everyone’s preferences.
4. “Can you turn up the volume?”
We understand that some guests may want louder music, but as professionals, we also have to consider noise ordinances and avoid disturbing neighbors or other events happening nearby.
5. “What kind of music do you play?”
It is better to trust in our expertise and let us do what we do best – read the crowd and select appropriate songs accordingly. Our music selection typically caters to various genres and age groups.
6. “Why aren’t you taking requests?”
While some DJs may allow requests, others prefer not to because they have already curated a specific playlist for the event or simply because they are confident in their song selections.
7. “Do you know my friend [DJ’s name]? He said he knows you.”
DJing is a small community, but just because we’re in the same profession doesn’t mean we all know each other personally or professionally.
8. “Can I come behind your equipment and try DJing?”
Our equipment is expensive and delicate; please respect that this is our workspace and refrain from touching anything without permission.
9. “Can you keep playing for another hour? We’ll pay you extra.”
While we appreciate the offer, most DJs have set agreements and schedules with their clients and cannot extend their services without prior arrangements.
10. “Can I request a song that just came out today?”
As much as we want to stay up-to-date with new music, it’s not always possible to have every new release on hand. Our playlists are curated based on popular songs that appeal to our audience, not just solely on what’s new.
11. “Can you play this song next?”
It’s best to let the DJ control the music flow and not make requests during their set.
12. “Can you turn down the volume?”
The DJ has likely already adjusted the volume levels for optimal sound quality, so it’s best not to ask them to change it.
13. “Why aren’t you playing my favorite genre of music?”
Every DJ has their own style and specific genre they specialize in, so respect their musical choices and don’t criticize them for not playing your preferred genre.
14. “Can I come up and pick some songs?”
The playlist is carefully curated by the DJ and they have a specific plan for which songs to play and when, so it’s important not to disrupt their flow.
15. “Do you take song requests?”
Unless specifically advertised, DJs typically do not take requests as it can throw off their carefully planned out set.
16. “How much do you charge per hour? Can you give me a discount?”
Asking about rates or requesting discounts during an event is unprofessional and disrespectful towards the DJ’s time and talent.
17. “Why are you using pre-recorded mixes instead of mixing live?”
Some DJs use prepared mixes or tracks during their sets, but questioning their methods can be seen as insulting or doubting their skills.
18. “Can I plug my phone in and play a few songs?”
DJs spend years perfecting their craft, so don’t undermine their expertise by asking to play your own music at an event they were hired for.
19. “This party isn’t that great, can you play more upbeat music?”
The DJ is there to enhance the atmosphere of the party, but ultimately it’s up to the crowd’s energy level on how successful the event will be – not just the music being played.
20. “Do you mind if I stand behind the booth and watch you work?”
The DJ’s workspace is their personal area, so it’s important to respect their space and not crowd them while they are performing.
Things Not To Say To The DJ
1. “Can you just play whatever? It doesn’t really matter.”
2. “Can you turn it down? My little cousin is asleep upstairs.”
3. “I have a whole playlist ready, so don’t bother playing any requests.”
4. “You’re the DJ, right? Can you fix my broken speaker?”
5. “Why are you playing old songs? We want to hear something new!”
6. “I know you’re busy, but can you take a break and go get me a drink?”
7. “Don’t worry about the volume, I’ll let you know when it’s too loud.”
8. “Are you sure this is the right song? I’ve never heard of it before.”
9. “I’m not really into this music, can’t you just switch genres?”
10.”What’s with all the breaks in between songs? Can’t you keep the music going?”
11. “Can you change the song? I don’t like it.”
12. “I know you’re busy, but can you take a break to play my friend’s request?”
13. “Can’t you just play some real music?”
14. “You call this DJing? My cousin can do better on his laptop.”
15. “Do you have any good songs besides these ones?”
16. “Can you make the music louder? I want to dance!”
17. “Why are you playing old songs? Can’t you keep up with the latest trends?”
18. “What kind of DJ doesn’t take requests?”
19. “Why did you skip my favorite song? Play it now!”
20.”You should get a real job instead of this DJ gig.”
What do you say to a DJ?
“Good evening, DJ [insert name]. Thank you for providing the music for tonight’s event. Could you please mix in more upbeat songs to keep the energy high? We want the guests to have a great time. Also, could you lower the volume a bit so people can comfortably converse? Thank you for your attention and for keeping the party going.”
“Good evening, DJ. Thank you for providing the music tonight. I just wanted to let you know that your skills and song selection have been absolutely excellent. Keep up the great work!”
- “What would you like me to play next?”
- “Can you turn up the volume a bit please?”
- “Do you have any requests for songs or genres?”
- “Could we adjust the lighting to match the mood of the music?”
- “Thank you for keeping the energy up, can we keep it going with some upbeat tracks?”
- “I noticed a few technical difficulties, do you need any assistance?”
- “Please announce our sponsors before playing their requested song.”
- “The dance floor seems a little empty, can we switch up the music to get people moving?”
- “Great mix so far, can we add in some throwback hits as well?”
- “What is the current song playing?”
- “Can you play some more upbeat tracks?”
- “Could you turn up the volume a bit?”
- “Can you mix in some throwback songs?”
- “Do you take requests?”
- “The music selection is great, keep it up!”
- “Is there a specific genre or artist you specialize in?”
- “Could you announce the next song and artist before playing it?”
- “How long will your set be for tonight?”
- “I’m really enjoying your playlist, can’t wait to hear what’s next.”
Conclusion
Certain questions should be avoided when speaking to a DJ. These questions may come from a place of curiosity or even ignorance, but they can still be offensive and disrespectful.
Instead, focus on showing appreciation for their skill and hard work and trust in them to create an amazing atmosphere for your event.
