Live band or DJ?

Very little can compare to a live band! The energy they bring, the adapability they can have, the raw live talent and crowd work, is all unparalled. However, there are restrictions to the amount of songs they can play as they obvioulsy need to know how to play them, and the biggest issue is often the budget needed. An "open format" DJ is going to be much cheaper than a great band and be able to play/mix any genre in to keep the floor going. Another thing is that a DJ can fit into any venue quite easily, whereas a band just practically needs more space. If money isn't an issue and venue space isn't an issue and you want a band, ask them for a setlist and see that you like the type of music they know before booking them and you won't regret it. 

Hello Bride,

Thanks for the brilliant question!

Here at Baker Boys we love to supply bands and/or DJs to our couples for weddings.   We also love to help our couples decide what's best for them.
Here are a few factors that can be helpful to consider:


1. VENUE SOUND RESTRICTIONS. Many venues only allow DJ's, or have strict sound restrictions, that make working with a DJ a more practical option, as you can always turn it down as much as needed.   If you've got your heart set on a live band, it's a great idea to check if there are any sound restrictions before booking your venue.   

2. BUDGET - DJ's are traditionally cheaper when you first compare BUT, a 3pc band is only slightly more expensive, and can also provide ceremony and canapés music, for a minimal add-on fee.  As opposed to having a DJ, and then having to book live musician/s for your ceremony and canapés at an additional cost, which can ultimately end up being much more expensive.  

3. GO AND SEE! - We showcase our Bands and DJ's live at our free showcases, where you can directly compare the two and see what you prefer. 
There are definitely musical styles that are better suited to DJ's rather than bands, but likewise, there are certain styles where live music simply can't be beaten. 
If you love house or techno etc. a DJ will be best for you.  If you love pop, rock, country or Motown, having a live band who can improvise and be spontaneous, brings the music to life in a way a recording simply can't.

4. BREAKS - there's a lot to be said for a couple of short breaks in the music.  It adds a feeling of structure to the night, allows your guests an opportunity to have dessert, get a drink, have a chat before hitting the dance floor again.    Later in the night a band breaks can be covered by a Spotify DJ playlist, too, so if you book a band, you will still have an opportunity to include those DJ vibes as well. 

5. SPEAKER QUALITY - I think a huge factor to be considered that hasn't been mentioned is the equipment that the band or DJ will be bringing with them.   If you are looking at a freelance DJ, I would ask what speakers they will be bringing and google to check the quality - a quick google of industry standard equipment etc. will show you what you need to know.  It doesn't matter how great a DJ is, if their speakers are too small or low quality, it can be extremely detrimental to the dance floor vibes.


Please reach out if we can help with anything further, we'd love to help :) 
 

Great question, and totally understandable that it feels tricky with so many options out there!

Here's a quick breakdown:

Live Band:

• Fantastic visual presence, engaging and adds a unique atmosphere.
• Great if live music is something you're truly passionate about.
• Typically more expensive, less flexible with song choices, and takes regular breaks, potentially breaking momentum.

DJ:

• Offers an unlimited music library tailored exactly to your and your guests' tastes.
• Keeps energy high with non-stop music—no awkward pauses!
• Usually more budget-friendly, providing exceptional value without compromising quality.

If keeping your guests dancing all night long, versatility in song selection, and seamless transitions are important to you, then a DJ is absolutely the way to go.

At NOVA DJs, we specialise in making wedding celebrations unforgettable. We're passionate about personalising your night, reading the crowd, and creating the perfect vibe from start to finish. Check out our stellar reviews to see how much our couples love us, and head over to our Instagram @novadjs to see the energy we bring to every event!

If you'd like to chat more about what we can create together, I'd love to help.

Warm regards,
Renato @ NOVA DJs

Both live music and DJ are so fun! We often perform pre-ceremony, ceremony and canapé hour through to cutting of the cake and a DJ takes over for the dance floor section. We are able to do MM dance music too but sometime the good ol' faves gets everyone up and dancing. Talk to us about both options and we can quote either ??

Both! Why not opt for a live duo or soloist for the day and swap over to DJ for the night :)

Live music totaly enhances the feel and atmosphere of the night! There is nothing quite like it. A musician or band is much more personal touch and can cater much closer to the couple, the guests and the room!

Great question, it usually depends on budget. If budget not a problem then get U2 or the Rolling Stones. I've heard they are quite good??. But seriously space in the room to set up is also a factor. I am an acoustic soloist and can fit in the corner of a room in a space 3x3. I did a wedding yesterday Wednesday March 19, 2025 at Chapel Farm Estate and I set up and that was plenty of room for dance space in front on me. Every one was comfortable and happy. 

It really depends on what you are looking for. A good live band can be an excellent choice, however they also come at a price. A chep band can be pretty awful. A good experienced DJ can play the original recorded songs. As long as they use a quality PA and present their show in a professional and visually suitable manner for the event they are a great option. Their fee compared to a quality live band will usually be a loy less.

The other thing to consider is that the DJ for an additional small fee can normally do a seperate small setup to provide both ceremony and Canapes music as I will be doing this very weekend. If they are very experienced they can also be a good option as and MC.

I hope this helps.

Cheers, Alan.

Prodiscos

Hello Bride!

Well this is a complex, but classic question.

If cost is a big factor for you I'd go for a DJ who would generally be cheaper than a band, as a band has many people involved whilst a DJ is usually just themselves. Bands also take up quite a bit of space in the venue, which can be a consideration, too.

However, bands definitely have a great 'vibe' as long as they are energetic performers with charismatic singers. DJs can replicate that vibe if they have performance skills, though. I like to think that because I really get in to the music, dance hard when I'm DJing for the floor and encourage the audience to join in, that I can replicate what a band brings to their performance whilst I'm DJing.

DJs can also  play much longer than bands as the co-ordinated playing of many people is tiring and bands will take breaks, whilst DJ can play for many hours, including your background music sets, without one.

Lastly, DJs have almost any song you could wish for at your disposal, whilst bands are limited to the set songs that they have learned, although they definitely should be able to learn special songs for your night.

To sum up, I think bands are brilliant fun. When they're all playing together great there's an amazing vibe. But I think that A DJ can be just as good (depending on the DJ), and usually at a more appealing price point.

Cheers,

DJ Andrew McClelland

While a Live Band will add a special atmosphere they usually have a limited arrangement of songs, making requests from guests difficult to cater to. A DJ on the other hand can take requests without any issue and is used to working a Dance Floor. My recommendation would be a DJ for the night. If you really want a live band have them perform for the Canapes and during Dinner.