Should guests be able to request songs?

Or is that annoying

Question Asked: 15/04/2025

Wedding Date: 9/08/2018

Most Helpful Response

Darioviolin & Double Show Entertainment

(52) · Melbourne & Surrounding Areas

Posted: 16/04/2025

Yes, absolutely – it’s your big day, and if there are songs your guests would love to hear, we’re more than happy to include a few requests where possible.

That said, we do recommend letting your musicians guide the overall music selection. With our experience reading the room and creating the right atmosphere, we’re able to keep the energy flowing in the best way. Some songs might not translate well live or suit the vibe at that moment, so a balance between guest requests and professional judgment usually works best.

Let us know if there are any “must-plays” or favourites you'd like us to include!

Answered by: 17 Experts

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The Bow Tie DJ Guy

(0) · Hunter Valley

Posted: 16/04/2025

That honestly depends on what you want, as some people really do just want the DJ to do their thing.

A lot of DJ's will still only take requests that fit the criteria you've probably specified that you're after in the lead up.

Whenever people have selected on my music form that they don't want me to take requests, it doesn't necessarily mean that I will turn away people that come up to me. I will always say "let me see what I can do", but if it is an average request or something that doesn't quite fit then I probably won't play it.

Requests need to be for the whole group, the whole dance floor. They can't just be "play something I can dance to" or "my favourite song is ... ".

Most good DJ's or bands will know what to do with requests, otherwise sometimes they can seem a bit arrogant, so trust your DJ or band to handle requests properly.

A hot tip, if it's still early, is to get your guests to submit a song request with their RSVP. Some platforms will then spit out a spreadsheet or list of some sort, which you can then give to your DJ/Band. In theory, you've then given them all of your guests requests and that list can be used appropriately, perhaps meaning your guests don't really need to approach and let the DJ/Band know what they want to hear.

Hope this helps!

Richard Hughes

THE BOW TIE DJ GUY

Stevie Lee Music

(9) · Based in Newcastle NSW but will travel anywhere for LOVE

Posted: 16/04/2025

I think it's a great idea to allow guests to request songs—it gives me a better sense of what people are in the mood to dance or listen to! That said, it’s up to me as the entertainer to read the room and decide whether a request suits the moment—or whether it should be skipped entirely. Some songs can kill the vibe, and my job is to keep the energy flowing just right.

Hope that helps!
– Stevie x

The Groove

(0) · Gold Coast / Tweed Heads

Posted: 16/04/2025

I will always do my very best to satisfy song request. I don't do Tiny Tim impersonations but I can do most songs suitable for weddings !!!

Regards John " The Groove "

Hayden McGlinn

(3) · Perth

Posted: 16/04/2025

I usually tend to ask them to run it by the bride and groom if it's a random guest. 
It does disrupt the flow especially if it's a song I'm not 100% familiar with and I have to search my IPad for the lyrics. 

It can be annoying when they come up and ask mid song. It usually has a bit to do with how much alcohol has been consumed. 
I've had it happen many times. I'm really ok with it but depends on the circumstances of how casual the wedding is. I always have a set list prepared and curated with the bride and groom before hand so random songs tend to raise eyebrows. 

Corinna's Voice

(15) · Adelaide and surrounds | Regional and Winery Regions SA

Posted: 16/04/2025

Absolutely! I’d love for you to request songs for your wedding – it’s such a special part of personalising your day. All of my packages include learning a song or two just for you, and you’re also welcome to browse my extensive repertoire to choose your favourites (or let me know any you'd prefer to leave out!).

On the wedding night, I’m always happy for guests to come up and chat with me. If I know the song they’re after, I’ll gladly play it. My goal is to make sure the music reflects your style and helps create the perfect atmosphere for your celebration.

Davertainment

(106) · Sydney, Wollongong, NSW South Coast, Southern Highlands & Beyond

Posted: 16/04/2025

Absolutely Yes. A good DJ will be able to manage the requests and ensure that the songs are appropriate for the Wedding crowd. The mood can be maintained while still satisfying requests from guests. Certain crowds can also have clicky songs that the DJ may not ever contemplate playing only to find out it has significant impact with that particular group of people. Crowd interaction  between the DJ and the guests is good.

Lights & Sights Entertainment

(21) · Melbourne and Surroundings

Posted: 16/04/2025

Hi, 

Interesting question and there's a couple of ways to look at this.  People's taste in music can vary significantly, but the important thing to note is that it's YOUR day and it's YOUR music taste is what matters.  At the end of the day, it's a supplier's job to execute your vision for your day, but we're also there to put on a good show for your guests.

In my experience, the requests I get generally match the genre of music I'm playing at the time and so I play it, however sometimes I get a few curveballs thrown.  If the request matches what I have planned for later in the set-list (which any good supplier will have discussed with you well before the day) then I tell them that I'll play it later on.

If the request is completely out there (and against what you want) or it will clear out the dancefloor - then a poilte but firm "I'll see what I can do" is my response with actually means 'no'  :-)

A good way to scratch everyone's request itch, is to ask them for a song request in your RSVP's and then put together a Spotify or Apple Music playlist which the DJ can refer to.  

Good luck for the big day!! 

Andrew

Lights & Sights Entertainment

JP Music

(10) · NSW State Wide / Happy to Travel

Posted: 16/04/2025

Yes of course! All requests are welcome as we know how much more guests enjoy their night when their favourite song/s are played!

Sean K Acoustic & DJ

(33) · Ballarat / Bendigo / Echuca

Posted: 16/04/2025

  1. Yes, I think that guests should be able to make requests. At the the same time, a DJ has every right to politely decline a request if he or she, based on experience, thinks that the song is in bad taste, will clear the dance floor or is not the right time for that particular song.

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