Issue 3: Planning Music For A Multi-Generational Crowd
So, you’re getting married, throwing a big party, or having some other sort of event that is going to involve a crowd of mixed ages, likes, and dislikes. How do you plan music that is going to appeal to everyone and have them raving about your party?
Here are a few things to consider:
Know Your Timeline
The later the party, generally the younger the crowd. Even with a wedding, many older guests will often leave before the final dance set. So plan music with broader appeal - classic dance songs from the 60’s to the early 2000’s - for earlier in the night and work up to the newest dance hits later in the evening.
Be open to a wide variety of styles & artists
Even if you're not a fan of certain styles, eras, or artists, some of your guests might be. Completely omitting popular genres limits the ability of your band leader or DJ to keep the dance floor full. Sprinkling them in throughout the evening keeps your crowd happy and the dance floor packed!
While there may be stuff you don't want to hear, the right band leader will work with you to limit the music you don't love, yet select enough crowd-pleasers to keep the floor busy all night long.
Keep it clean
You probably knew this one was coming - while you may not mind cursing, highly suggestive, or violent lyrics, chances are many guests at a multi-generational event will mind. So make sure your band or DJ sticks to clean song versions throughout the night, and maybe save "WAP" and "Damn It Feels Good to Be a Gangster" for the afterparty.
Pick sing-along favorites
While you don't see the Chicken Dance, the Electric Slide, and the Macarena much anymore, you can plan plenty of songs that create a feeling of togetherness, get the whole crowd on their feet, and interacting with the band or DJ. Some favorites include Livin’ on a Prayer, Sweet Caroline, Don’t Stop Believing, and Piano Man, among others.
One last thing to remember…
As the host, the crowd is going to go where you go. So if you're not on the dance floor, chances are your crowd won’t be either. They are there to celebrate with you. So be sure to get on the floor yourself and enjoy the party!
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