The Ultimate Playlist: Selecting Songs for Your Event
Hey Party People!
Music is the heartbeat of any event. After all, it’s pretty hard to get your guests on the dance floor if the songs aren’t hitting! As a DJ, it’s my responsibility to play tracks that everyone will enjoy. Over the years, I've built up an extensive and well-organized library of songs, giving me a solid sense of what works for different events. But when it comes down to it, what kind of music do YOU want to play at your party?
During the booking process, one thing I always emphasize is the importance of providing a song list. The length doesn’t matter—it can be as few or as many songs as you like. That said, I usually recommend 20-40 songs. This list helps me understand your tastes, and from there, I can transform those selections into a full, customized playlist for the event.
Now that you’ve secured your date, booked your venue, and locked in your DJ, it’s time to curate the perfect playlist. But where do you start? Here are my 3 top tips for creating a playlist that will set the right tone for your event!
Pick Songs that YOU Like! When creating the perfect playlist for your event, remember—it’s YOUR day! Whether it’s a mitzvah, wedding, or any other personal celebration, the music should reflect your taste and vibe. For mitzvahs and weddings, pick songs that resonate with you and create the atmosphere you want. Don’t be afraid to include tracks that are meaningful to you. For corporate events, it's a little different; you’ll want to consider your colleagues’ preferences. A great way to get input is to ask your coworkers what songs they like and gather suggestions in a shared spreadsheet. This ensures everyone feels included and the playlist has broad appeal.
Look at the Charts! A quick and reliable way to find popular music is by checking the Billboard Hot 100 or tuning into the radio. These charts reflect current hits that people are enjoying nationwide, making them a great resource for picking songs that will get the crowd dancing and singing along. Whether it's pop, hip-hop, or even country, the Billboard charts can help guide your choices for mainstream, widely-loved songs that will bring energy to your event.
Do Some Digging! We're living in a golden age of curated playlists—there's a playlist for every mood and occasion. Simply searching “[your event type] playlist” on music platforms like Spotify or Apple Music can reveal a treasure trove of pre-made song collections tailored to your needs. These playlists are made with specific vibes in mind, whether it's a wedding reception, a corporate dinner, or a dance party. Don’t forget to ask your DJ for recommendations too! DJs have tons of experience and can suggest the perfect mix of songs that will keep the energy up and the dance floor full.
Choosing the right songs for your event can set the tone and ensure everyone has a great time. By picking songs you love, tapping into the current charts, and doing some research or asking your DJ for advice, you can create a playlist that enhances the experience and gets everyone in the mood to celebrate. Happy listening!
- DJ Juss Joshin
October 2022
One of the craziest events I’ve done! High School Homecoming in the East Bay. Great energy!
