Well an interesting night - quick gig report

[Pazz]

OK here we go.... big deep breath... a rare gig report from me!

I spent most of Saturday afternoon working on a new background music playlist for the night's wedding as I wanted to try and make it more specific for the night instead of using one of my more jazzy, swing type playlists I always use. I based it loosely on the playlist of songs the client had already sent, a variety of songs that have worked well before and some classics that I don't get to play too often. I was happy what I came up with and I started playing at 6pm as they requested me to do while they were having coffees. They were supposed to come upstairs after the meal (downstairs) but they didn't really start filtering up until at least 7.15pm so my efforts for a background playlist were a little wasted... but this was just the start of an interesting night for me!

I had setup all nice and early and tested everything out without breaking a sweat and as I said I had the background music playing even though there were only the odd 1 or 2 people going in and out of the room. There was supposed to be a 'one man band' (as the client described him) playing his first set at 8pm. Once the room was pretty full at around 7.45pm a couple of young gents come up to me (I presume one of them was the best man) and asked for a couple of requests which was fine but then informed me of the first dance. Now I have to say I emailed the client earlier in the week to confirm that I had all the requests on her playlist (apart from one) but for her to contact me before the night for the first dance. She didn't get back to me and I have no idea why she couldn't have written it on the list with the other songs.

They informed me of the first dance choice which was You and Me by Lifehouse. Now I knew I didn't have this (and have never heard of it before last night) and I was a bit stumped and informed them that I had never heard back from them about this song. I know I should have chased it up again but I did email the client. She insisted she did email me back but I refuse to believe that as I check all my emails thoroughly and so I think they were trying it on. Anyway I suggested I could play it if somebody could get hold of the song on a CD but they were not interested and then came back to me with the password for the wi-fi connection at the venue. I was a bit reluctant to do this as I didn't think I would be able to get the track they wanted, I never try and get hold of songs on the day of the event, I don't always take my backup laptop with me - just my main laptop which is never connected to the internet - but as I did have my backup with me I thought I'd give it a go on this laptop. Anyway, cut this story short I couldn't download it on itunes to begin with (I was willing to pay the price to get this one song), so I tried Youtube (a first for me) and this worked and the bride listened to the song through my headphones. I thought this would be ok but once the one man band (who was actually a male artist with a guitar) had finally arrived at 7.45pm (he even had the cheek to ask me if he could play through my system but I said no as I'm not comfortable with him playing through my speakers as I can't afford any replacements if they blow etc) and finished setting up; I played the song on youtube BUT there was no sound . After a lot of panic and a red face they chose a different first dance and then picked a 2nd and third choice song before the artist came on.

The artist done his first set for 45 mins, then I had 20mins of disco and then the artist had another 45mins. To be honest the artist was ok but did sort of shout his songs out a lot and the choice of songs IMO were the wrong choice. I was sat out in the van and I could you hear him howling Hallelujah out for about 5mins . His songs weren't really cheerful or upbeat and I think it didn't go down too well. Anyway I got on for my final part from 10.30pm until 12 but from 11.15pm they were drifting away. I thought I would give the first dance another try and I managed to download it straight away this time. I saw the B&G on the dancefloor towards the end and I decided to surprise them with their song, albeit a little late! I think they were happy and it was a good finish.

A good few danced through the night and they seemed happy enough but not one of them came up to thank me for my efforts for the evening especially as I had also offered them discount for this wedding as a 'one-off'. The thanks you get sometimes!

Anyway I was glad to get out of there and get home only to discover that my neighbourhood was in the middle of a power cut but as you can see power all back on now and I'm off to bed... knackered!

NOTE - I have not yet got my new leads and velcro ties so my setup was still a little untidy – I tried to tidy them a bit by spending more time sticking them to the rig. I managed to take a few photos before the night got started and guests arrived etc. I will post these photos tomorrow in the Gallery. I have tidied them up a bit as you will see but I'm just waiting to receive the controller I purchased and the leads and then I can get cracking with it hopefully next week or the week after!!!

[DeckstarDeluxe]

If Ive not got a first dance song for an upcoming wedding I always call the client and explain the need to know the first dance song. I say a week because if its one I can only find on a cd it gives me time to order and for it to arrive.

My iphone and lappy can download songs too and its great to have the knowledge you wont have to say I havent got it to requests anymore.

[Excalibur]

OK here we go.... big deep breath... a rare gig report from me!
. Now I have to say I emailed the client earlier in the week to confirm that I had all the requests on her playlist (apart from one) but for her to contact me before the night for the first dance. She didn't get back to me and I have no idea why she couldn't have written it on the list with the other songs.[/COLOR]



If Ive not got a first dance song for an upcoming wedding I always call the client and explain the need to know the first dance song. I say a week because if its one I can only find on a cd it gives me time to order and for it to arrive.

My iphone and lappy can download songs too and its great to have the knowledge you wont have to say I havent got it to requests anymore.

If they're wanting a specific or off the wall one, rather than "Amazed" :D :D :D then really they've got to warn you in advance.

Craig, no help now, but

http://www.7digital.com/artists/various-artists/smallville-volume-2-international-version/03-You-And-Me-(Wedding-Version)/

[notroubleclubber]

I always make sure i have the first dance (2nd or 3rd as well) on mp3 as well as cd so if one goes down the other is there.
When i get to the venue and during setup i always find the B&G and make sure they know im there. Then you could have checked for the first dance track.
Did you not have a meeting beforehand? I always have a meeting beforehand if its a wedding and if i cant i always make sure i will see them when setting up in the afternoon at least for an evening gig. Then i have time to get hold of the track if need be.
It probably didnt look very professional that you didnt have their song hence why you didnt get no thanks!

As always, just learn from your mistakes.
The key to a good wedding do i find is preperation!

[Excalibur]

I always make sure i have the first dance (2nd or 3rd as well) on mp3 as well as cd so if one goes down the other is there.When i get to the venue and during setup i always find the B&G and make sure they know im there. Then you could have checked for the first dance track.
Did you not have a meeting beforehand? I always have a meeting beforehand if its a wedding and if i cant i always make sure i will see them when setting up in the afternoon at least for an evening gig. Then i have time to get hold of the track if need be.
It probably didnt look very professional that you didnt have their song hence why you didnt get no thanks!

As always, just learn from your mistakes.
The key to a good wedding do i find is preperation!

Indeed so, but if the B&G haven't given you the info, despite being asked............................................. .......................................

[NKR]

First dance is vital.

I have it on MP3, sat loaded on a CD in deck one and also second version on the reserve CD player. I also ask when its something off the wall that if they have the CD to also bring it, just in case the version I download is not the one they expect. They appreciate I am ensuring their first dance is spot on and bring it. Never had to use one yet, but it is there.

I have only ever screwed up one first dance and it was Neil Diamonds fault (he had stood on my cable bundle and loosened a connector, which fell out mid first dance - long story)

Rule is if you haven't heard from them you ring them. Its the one bit you can't fix if it goes wrong.

You live and learn and its one for the experience book.

Oh never let a solo artist with a guitar run through a DJ desk. I have plugged guitars into my Yammy, but insist on a DI box rather than a direct connection.

[Pazz]

First dance is vital.

I have it on MP3, sat loaded on a CD in deck one and also second version on the reserve CD player. I also ask when its something off the wall that if they have the CD to also bring it, just in case the version I download is not the one they expect. They appreciate I am ensuring their first dance is spot on and bring it. Never had to use one yet, but it is there.

I have only ever screwed up one first dance and it was Neil Diamonds fault (he had stood on my cable bundle and loosened a connector, which fell out mid first dance - long story)

Rule is if you haven't heard from them you ring them. Its the one bit you can't fix if it goes wrong.

You live and learn and its one for the experience book.

Oh never let a solo artist with a guitar run through a DJ desk. I have plugged guitars into my Yammy, but insist on a DI box rather than a direct connection.

Thanks for your comments. I completely agree with all of you that the first dance is so important and I normally always make sure that this and the other 'special dances' are all sorted long before the day. I just don't know what happened on this occasion - for some reason I was stood there last night asking myself why didn't I try calling the client (instead of 'chancing' it on the night) after they had not replied to my email. It was a bit of a strange one last night anyway TBH so I'm not too worried about it and I'll just learn from it and move on - which reminds me I will be contacting the client tomorrow for next week's wedding as I still haven't received their playlist or choice of 'special songs' yet - I'm eagerly anticipating the list though as they apparently have been putting a lot of thought into them.

Thanks Excalibur too, I have to say their choice of dance was probably the most obscure choice I have had for the past year and also Amazed by Lonestar has to be one of the most requested. I might try and purchase that album though just to add to the collection. :beer1: :)

[soundtracker]

Actually I've done this Lifehouse track a few times over the last couple of years, as others have already said - preparation is king.

[Pazz]

Actually I've done this Lifehouse track a few times over the last couple of years, as others have already said - preparation is king.

Agreed. Just looked up some details on Lifehouse just goes to show that there's always a band or artist some of us have never heard of (they been around for almost 10 years by the looks and I had never heard of them) and always a song that we haven't got. It's an endless job I think of updating your music collections but a job I never get tired of as I always enjoy being introduced to new music and developing my knowledge base.

Just remembered too that the guitarist played that that well known song during his set last night... "Postman Pat"... seriously! I couldn't believe my ears. I was outside when I heard it so all I can think of it must have been for the kids... or was it! Strange!

I'll post the pics of my setup later tonight when I'm back home from visting the family.
:beer1: :)

[CRAZY K]

Indeed so, but if the B&G haven't given you the info, despite being asked............................................. .......................................

Like any good businessman you hassle them until they give you an answer.

I would NEVER turn up for a Wedding without a first choice dance--even if it is--A BARN DANCE;)

[Excalibur]

Like any good businessman you hassle them until they give you an answer.

I would NEVER turn up for a Wedding without a first choice dance--even if it is--A BARN DANCE;)

Welcome to my world then mate. I regularly turn up without even knowing who I'm working for. They trust me to have all the required music. :D :D :D :D

[DAVESOUNDS SERVICES]

It seems to be a common problen...ive been in the dark a few times this year depite chasing the Bride n Groom..
Maybe theyre not bothered anymore?

cheers

[robbiedj]

Yes, I've had first dance for Saturday wedding finally sent on the Friday and one couple who, having asked for Harvest Moon, turned up at the function to say they had changed their minds and wanted Andy Williams instead.

Another couple couldn't decide, so gave me three tracks ........... then got the guests to vote for the first dance! :eek:

Sometimes it's :bang: :bang: :bang:

[Excalibur]

Yes, I've had first dance for Saturday wedding finally sent on the Friday and one couple who, having asked for Harvest Moon, turned up at the function to say they had changed their minds and wanted Andy Williams instead.

Another couple couldn't decide, so gave me three tracks ........... then got the guests to vote for the first dance! :eek:

Sometimes it's :bang: :bang: :bang:

I've regularly had them just ask me to pick one!! :eek: :D :D

On one ocasion, the venus owner and I were looking for one, and we both picked " Baby can I hold you", although I picked Tracy Chapman, and she Boyzone. :D :D :D

[simon1969]

I did a wedding passed on by another dj to me didnt know what their 1st dance was gonna be and played dance remix of chasing cars , half way through the song someone came up (not sure who it was maid of honour/ bridesmaid) screaming thats the B+G song swith it off!
At another wedding groom came up said were not having a 1st dance and were not making any speeches bliss!!!!:D :D

[Pazz]

Thanks for your comments. I completely agree with all of you that the first dance is so important and I normally always make sure that this and the other 'special dances' are all sorted long before the day. I just don't know what happened on this occasion - for some reason I was stood there last night asking myself why didn't I try calling the client (instead of 'chancing' it on the night) after they had not replied to my email. It was a bit of a strange one last night anyway TBH so I'm not too worried about it and I'll just learn from it and move on - which reminds me I will be contacting the client tomorrow for next week's wedding as I still haven't received their playlist or choice of 'special songs' yet - I'm eagerly anticipating the list though as they apparently have been putting a lot of thought into them.

Thanks Excalibur too, I have to say their choice of dance was probably the most obscure choice I have had for the past year and also Amazed by Lonestar has to be one of the most requested. I might try and purchase that album though just to add to the collection. :beer1: :)

Well this looks a lot better already for next weeks wedding. I chased this client up today with an email and she got back to me straight away today with an attachment. A lot better than last night client. A good selection of songs and interesting choice of first dance (usually play it half way through the disco) but looks all good and I have 5 whole days to prepare :D :D :D

[Pazz]

Well this looks a lot better already for next weeks wedding. I chased this client up today with an email and she got back to me straight away today with an attachment. A lot better than last night client. A good selection of songs and interesting choice of first dance (usually play it half way through the disco) but looks all good and I have 5 whole days to prepare :D :D :D

Ok, forgot to copy the email and playlist... here it is...

Songs for Meal / Dancing – this is just a list of suggestions etc to give you an idea of what we are looking for (the list seems to have got rather long – not every song is essential, obviously you can use your judgement!!)

I guess some slower / background music for the meal and then more poppy dancing ones at the disco. You will get loads of requests for “Never Forget” but can we have it for the last dance please
There are not many “recent” songs but we would be happy for a few. I hate Birdy Song, Macerena, things with a dance routinue etc ESP that horrible one where everyone sits in a row slapping the floor! (and Sit Down, and things that are solely designed for head banging in a circle!) Not that we are difficult!!


Pre first dance (to throw bouquet) Single Ladies - Beyonce
First Dance: Don't Stop me Now – Queen
Second: God Only Knows – Beach Boys
Third: Shine – Take that

Then up to you!!


When I'm Sixty Four - beatles
Dean Martin - Everybody Loves Somebody / Sway
Rule the World - Take That
The carpenters - we've only just begun
Nobody does it better by Carly Simon
Kiss Me – sixpence none the richer
Madness "it must be love"
Come fly with me, buble

All you need is love – beatles
Diamonds on the soles shoes (http://www.secretweddingsongs.com/easy-listening-wedding-songs/diamond-on-the-soles-paul-simon-lyrics.html) Paul Simon (http://www.secretweddingsongs.com/easy-listening-wedding-songs/diamond-on-the-soles-paul-simon-lyrics.html)
Good Vibrations (http://www.secretweddingsongs.com/easy-listening-wedding-songs/good-vibrations-beach-boys-lyrics.html) Beach Boys (http://www.secretweddingsongs.com/easy-listening-wedding-songs/good-vibrations-beach-boys-lyrics.html)
Your song, elton (http://www.secretweddingsongs.com/easy-listening-wedding-songs/good-vibrations-beach-boys-lyrics.html)
Can't help falling in love – elvis
Any song – Stevie wonder
You and me – wannadies
Greatest day – take that

Beautiful – christina aguilera
My love is your love – whitney!
All the time in the world – louis armstrong
You're just too good to be true – Andy williams
Songbird – eva cassidy
suddenly angry anderson
Best friend – queen
Tom Jones – all esp the one catatonia
Amazed – lonestar
crazy little thing called love – queen

First, last, my everything – barry white
Chapel of love -the Dixey Cups
Take That – any!
Then he kissed me – Crystals
Like a prayer – Madonna
I got a feeling – Black Eyed Peas
Grace Kelly Song – Mika
She Said – Plan B
Total Eclipse of the heart – Bonnie Tyler
Don't Stop Believing – Journey
Reach / don’t stop moving – S Club 7
Father and Son – Boyzone
Africa – Toto (not disco!!)
Torn – Natalie Umbruglia
Lucky You – Lightening seeds
The Boy does nothing – Alesha Dixon
Crank That – Soulja Boy
Whenever, wherever – Shakira
I think we're alone now – Tiffany
9 to 5 – Dolly Parton
I got the feeling / meet me halfway – black eye peas
Lady gaga
:beer1:

[NKR]

Thanks for your comments. I completely agree with all of you that the first dance is so important and I normally always make sure that this and the other 'special dances' are all sorted long before the day. I just don't know what happened on this occasion - for some reason I was stood there last night asking myself why didn't I try calling the client (instead of 'chancing' it on the night) after they had not replied to my email. It was a bit of a strange one last night anyway TBH so I'm not too worried about it and I'll just learn from it and move on - which reminds me I will be contacting the client tomorrow for next week's wedding as I still haven't received their playlist or choice of 'special songs' yet - I'm eagerly anticipating the list though as they apparently have been putting a lot of thought into them.

Thanks Excalibur too, I have to say their choice of dance was probably the most obscure choice I have had for the past year and also Amazed by Lonestar has to be one of the most requested. I might try and purchase that album though just to add to the collection. :beer1: :)

Hey - If you learn the hard way it goes in for good. Glad it worked out in the end though.

[Pazz]

Can a mod look at my earlier post here please? Not sure whats happened with it to look like that :confused:

[Charlie Brown]

If Ive not got a first dance song for an upcoming wedding I always call the client and explain the need to know the first dance song. I say a week because if its one I can only find on a cd it gives me time to order and for it to arrive.

My iphone and lappy can download songs too and its great to have the knowledge you wont have to say I havent got it to requests anymore.

I agree with Neil.

Why you didn't chase them up beforehand, I don't know? Seems very last minute and hectic. :shug:

I would of had a panic attack if I were you!

[rob1963]

I agree with Neil.

Why you didn't chase them up beforehand, I don't know? Seems very last minute and hectic. :shug:

I would of had a panic attack if I were you!

I agree with Neil too, apart from the last bit about being able to download stuff at gigs.

Once it gets to about 10-14 days before the gig, If I haven't heard from the client regarding payment of the outstanding balance or requests, I chase them up to find out how they'll be paying the balance & to let them know that I need their requests at least a week before their function.