MOSTOV'S MUSINGS 

"At Last"

February 26, 2025

Ah, so here we are on Valentines Day 2025. On this day for lovers, I want to take just a moment to discuss what I believe to be the quintessential love song. It is one I play at every wedding. It is timeless, and it is beautiful. In my opinion, it is the most romantic song ever recorded. I am t

"At Last"

February 14, 2025

Ah, so here we are on Valentines Day 2025. On this day for lovers, I want to take just a moment to discuss what I believe to be the quintessential love song. It is one I play at every wedding. It is timeless, and it is beautiful. In my opinion, it is the most romantic song ever recorded. I am talking about "At Last," the 1960 masterpiece by Etta James. 

If a song can intoxicate, then blues singer Etta James’ ballad “At Last” is a strong red wine — rich and elegant. The song’s iconic crescendo of strings leads up to her drawn out opening lyrics, “At last/ my love has come along.” The song captures the moment of, ‘You finally said yes,’ resonating with hopeless romantics everywhere. “You smiled,” James sings delicately, “and then the spell was cast.” Make no mistake. With every play, James casts a spell of her own. In the fifty years since she recorded the track, it has become THE classic love anthem, a permanent fixture of wedding receptions for five decades.

What's maybe most satisfying about the song is its placement on the album from which it comes. It is an album of lost and mangled love songs, each and every one a heartbreaker in which relief and fulfillment begin to seem truly impossible. But then, a moment of extraordinary deliverance. Finally, James finds her man: a person who doesn't get spooked, doesn't waver, doesn't leave her crumpled somewhere, alone and pining. “My lonely days are over, and life is like a song," The album’s title track is arguably the single greatest unburdening ever laid to tape. It plays like a person stumbling into a hotel room and simultaneously dropping all of her bags on the floor. 

The ballad is just 95 words long. And yet, in this 3-minute paragraph, James says more than any robust love letter ever could. Originally written by Mack Gordon and Harry Warren for the musical film Sun Valley Serenade (1941), Glenn Miller and his orchestra recorded the tune several times, with a 1942 version reaching number two on the US Billboard pop music chart. But this song belongs to Etta James. Her recording is an arrangement by Riley Hampton who improvised on Warren's melody in 1960.  Today it is one of the most beloved jazz standards of all time.

How ironic that many listeners do not identify James as a jazz vocalist. They are mistaken. It’s true that she is one of those singers that is difficult to categorize, as she successfully recorded in a number of styles. Her pioneering 1950s hits -- “The Wallflower” and “Good Rockin’ Daddy” -- assure her place in the early history of rock and roll. And, although James never grew as popular as 60s soul artists such as Aretha Franklin, Mahalia Jackson, or Dusty Springfield, she still had the voice and the heart to hold her own against any of her contemporaries. She has also been named “the greatest of all modern blues singers” and “the undisputed Earth Mother.”  Yet her vocal style owes much to jazz vocalist Dinah Washington, and while nominated for 13 Grammy awards in the genres of r&b and blues, her first Grammy win was for Best Jazz Vocal Performance. Etta James could do it all. And to celebrate her achievements, she has been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and she has won the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. 

If it has been a while since your last listen, or if you have never heard "At Last," do yourself a favor this Valentines Day. Cue the track, hold your partner, and dim the lights. I promise you will fall in love all over again. What comes after may make this the most memorable Valentines Day you've ever experienced. 

Never Settle for "Good" (Part Three)

January 30, 2025

An Excellent DJ Is Always Approachable

An excellent DJ simply must be affable and welcoming.  He or she should be capable of getting along with the crowd. Some hostile DJs refuse to be interrupted. These DJs believe they know better than you and that speaking to you will only ruin their set. Avoid these DJs at all costs because they will blight your event.

Excellent DJs are always responsive and know how to handle your guests' requests. They also establish a rapport with the audience. Make sure the DJ you hire has strong communication and microphone skills. Experienced DJs know when to get on the mic and involve the crowd. Just as important, they know when to turn off the microphone. 

As the emcee, an excellent DJ engages the crowd by being upbeat and enthusiastic with his or her announcements, but your guests are NOT there to see him or her. Most everyone can recall a horrible DJ who talked too much and wasn’t funny or warm and welcoming with their guests. You do not hire a DJ to be a comedian. Always professional, excellent DJs do not  have a comedy schtick or a routine. They do not insert their own identities; rather they make the event all about you and your guests’ celebration. An excellent DJ never allows him or herself to become the center of attention. Excellent DJs provide smooth-flowing events with proper mic etiquette to formally guide the crowd through the night. They pump up the crowd when appropriate, but their job is to keep your guests informed about what is going on and what is up next. Excellent DJs know not to talk into the microphone all night. You hire a DJ to entertain your guests through a great mix of music, and that is what an excellent DJ does. 

It should also be stated that an excellent DJ pumps up the crowd in many different ways without the help of a microphone. A  complimentary light show is just as important. When a DJ involves the audience in his or her performance, the event feels more inclusive and special to those who are a part of it. This includes your other vendors.

An Excellent DJ Gets Along with the Venue and Staff

Note that an excellent DJ doesn’t have to keep just the audience happy. He or she also has to maintain a positive relationship with the venue and its employees or hired contractors. 

DJs often perform at wedding receptions. Simple mistakes by an unapproachable DJ might ruin the entire event. When a DJ is unapproachable, he or she won’t know when unique moments occur. An inexperienced DJ will miss moments like the bouquet toss or cake-cutting ceremony because he or she has not communicated with the event staff or the hired photographer.

An excellent DJ is part of the experience from start to finish. He or she isn't just there to make music. He or she is there to make the night unforgettable. Hiring a DJ with a positive and approachable attitude is essential for a memorable experience.

A Few More Important Details to Remember

• Keeping up with music trends and sites is essential for a successful DJ. They can’t keep the crowd engaged without knowledge. Knowing popular trends helps, but knowing when it is appropriate and inappropriate to play those trending songs is better. The biggest country hit at the moment might not be the right choice when someone requests a country track. But with a solid understanding of music, an excellent DJ would know the perfect moment to play it so that the celebration’s vibe isn’t ruined. 

• A DJ with outdated technology is never a good choice because he or she is less adaptable to the unique needs of an event. This lack of flexibility leads to an expectation that all events should follow their rigid format that doesn’t serve the best interest of all attendees. Also, a DJ who doesn’t keep up with technology advancements and trends might have outdated equipment. Outdated equipment tends to malfunction. You don’t want a beautiful moment ruined because a song stops playing or the lights go out. 

• An excellent DJ also has a strong social media presence. Excellent DJs use digital marketing as a means of advertisement. A DJ with a weak social media presence might be someone with a less than ideal set-up. Determine if your DJ has an excellent system by taking time to view his or her site or social media. 

• Excellent DJs understand liabilities and insurance. Most venues provide insurance coverage, but DJs are responsible for things that can go wrong. If someone trips on a loose cord that the DJ has left exposed on the dance floor, that is the DJ’s responsibility. An excellent DJ knows what dangers there are and how to avoid them. Additionally, an excellent DJ is aware of copyright infringement laws. Be careful of inexperienced and unprofessional DJs. They might be playing their songs illegally. Excellent DJs are aware of copyright laws and protect their clients from risks.

• Equipment fails, and sometimes no one is at fault. Faulty electrical wiring might blow a speaker or an entire set of equipment. An excellent DJ has backup equipment ready and available whenever unfortunate accidents occur.  No one wants the night to end because of an unexpected event. Excellent DJs keep equipment insurance just for these situations. An inexperienced DJ might not be ready for these situations where faulty equipment ruins the night. 

In closing, knowing what makes an excellent DJ means knowing you’ve selected the right person that will make your event memorable. As you search for the perfect DJ for your event, keep these qualities in mind before choosing. 

The emotional impact of a DJ’s performance separates the good from the excellent. A good DJ provides a fun and enjoyable experience, keeping the crowd dancing and entertained. However, an excellent DJ creates an unforgettable and emotional journey through music. He or she leaves a lasting impression that resonates with the audience long after the event, turning a night out into a profound musical experience. 

An excellent DJ is positive and approachable with a passion for music. He or she has a strong social media presence and a professional attitude. Most importantly, an excellent DJ comes to your event prepared but open with a sense of spontaneity. 

Please, never settle for "good." You deserve better. 

Never Settle for "Good" (Part Two)

January 25, 2025

How do the big DJ companies differ from individual wedding DJs? 

From a personal perspective, the biggest difference is this: 

I am ONE person, and I can only be in ONE place at a time.  

ONE Wedding DJ for ONE day: YOUR Day. 

Think for  a moment. How does a prospective bride know what type of DJ she is getting when she hires a company with multiple DJs? This is a question that should give you pause. This is NOT a stab at companies who operate like that. For ten years I worked for one of these companies, and I have nothing but the highest regard for the owner. He is a very good friend of mine. But he is often spread too thin. 

I have no desire to have a huge company with lots of DJs who possess many different personalities because these larger companies do not match DJs to couples by personality. The larger companies match one of their DJs to each wedding reception based only on the DJ's availability.  But when couples approach me, they see me for who I am. They know what they are getting, and if our personalities "click"—and they almost always do—it helps to put their minds at ease. They know I am the right choice for their weddings because they know exactly what I am going to offer them. It usually takes just one brief conversation. Then, they breathe a sigh of relief. When a couple is in the thick of planning a wedding, they are usually very overwhelmed. And when a couple knows their DJ is assigned by lottery, it does not lessen their stress. For many couples, this increases their worry and stress. 

What's interesting is that the large companies started out just like me. But in just a short time, their websites began to feature other DJs.  When you begin to feature other wedding DJs, you are putting your reputation that you have worked so hard to build on the line. I've invested a lot of time and money into building my brand and image, and I am just not interested in putting all of that hard work into the hands of others.  Doing my best to give every couple the wedding of their dreams—that is the secret to my success. I never have to worry about a wedding DJ who has a bad night and ruins a couples' wedding reception and my reputation at the same time. I will never put my reputation in the hands of someone else. As a result, I'll always do a limited number of weddings per season. I'm not trying to be greedy. My goal has always been to be the most professional wedding DJ in my market with the most affordable pricing.  I DJ because I love to do it. The money is wonderful, but the human connection makes me far richer.

Another big difference between the big companies and the individual DJ is this: wedding DJs on payroll under an umbrella company tend to use the same songs at every wedding. While this may work for some couples, it’s not the best idea if you want a more customizable playlist. Settling for less might not give you the memorable celebration you want.

But, most individual DJs that I know are like me in that they think outside the box. As self-employed DJs, most of us genuinely love music, and we know how to plan an unforgettable event. Excellent DJs are skilled entertainers who can curate a playlist for all sorts of events, not just weddings. We bring our own unique touch, and we can adapt to any crowd. Thanks to our versatility, we can match our clients' musical tastes and make their events feel special. By working with excellent DJs with their own unique styles, you are far more likely to have a celebration that feels personalized, fresh, and exciting.

How to Tell if a DJ Has the Technical Skills They Need

An excellent DJ exudes positive energy through his or her passion for what he or she does and is proficient in the basics: he or she can mix tracks smoothly, understand beatmatching and cueing, and read the crowd to play appropriate tracks. However, an excellent DJ takes these skills to the next level. He or she masters seamless transitions with creative flair, uses advanced techniques like harmonic mixing, and anticipates crowd energy to adjust his or her sets dynamically. This mastery creates a cohesive and engaging musical journey.

The best DJs build up their sets and drop them at the right moment. This talent ensures the crowd isn’t overwhelmed with a constant barrage of fast dance tracks or slow songs that lull them to sleep. The best way to know if a DJ has this skill is to read his or her reviews. High star ratings and positive feedback almost always guarantees a DJ puts together a perfect performance.

Is Your DJ Adaptable?

A successful DJ is prepared but also knows how to be spontaneous. When choosing the right DJ, you don’t want someone who doesn’t take your event seriously. A DJ who takes your event too lightly is just as bad as a DJ who takes themselves too seriously. 

An excellent DJ is prepared for the event in advance but also knows what the crowd enjoys and how to improvise. Often, an audience doesn’t feel the vibe. An inexperienced DJ might stay the course to get through the event. But an excellent DJ will adjust to the crowd’s needs. An excellent DJ may have to throw away his or her entire set on the spot and start fresh to keep the audience dancing.

This adaptability is what often includes them among the very best DJs in their area.

Can Your DJ Read the Crowd?

The ability to read the crowd is essential to an excellent DJ’s performance. When a DJ can’t read the crowd (many can’t), he or she ruins the mood of the entire event. A DJ who studies the audience will ensure a good experience.

Hire a DJ who pays attention to what makes a crowd dance and what songs make them head to their seats and sit down. Preparation is more than just having a library of songs ready. It includes changing those songs whenever necessary to keep things running smoothly.

Special events like weddings, New Year’s Eve parties, corporate events, and private functions have a wide variety of attendees. An excellent DJ looks at his or her audience and knows what they will like. Knowing what will get the crowd dancing ensures an excellent DJ will have a successful event.

Timing and feeling the crowd are crucial. An experienced DJ knows when to play that classic track that everybody loves. He or she is also familiar with what new songs have fun and catchy beats. 

An Excellent DJ Has Strong People Skills

As explained earlier, reading the room separates the very best DJs from the less-than-desirable ones. But reading the room is not enough. It is imperative that your DJ is always approachable and welcoming, too. Those who aren't will miss the opportunity for a wonderful event. 

More about this in my next (and final) entry on the topic of Excellent DJs.

Never Settle for "Good" (Part One)

January 19, 2025

If you are planning an important event and considering hiring an event DJ, you’ll want to find someone who’s not just good, but EXCELLENT. Never settle for "good." Especially for your wedding. On what is the most important day of your life, you want to hire the very best DJ within your budget. An excellent DJ is one of the most memorable parts of a wedding. Great songs and transitions play a huge role in making parties, wedding receptions, and corporate events a lot of fun.

What makes an excellent DJ is not just playing the right songs at the right time, however. Funny as it sounds, you don't hire a DJ for the music. Any teenager with a Spotify account and a bluetooth speaker can play your music. It won't sound very good, and the transitions will be jarring (they may even kill your dancefloor), but it can be done. You hire a DJ for what happens behind the scenes. Brides never want to hear this, but something always goes wrong at a wedding. When things go sideways, an excellent DJ will do everything possible to make sure you never know that it did. An excellent DJ is competent and enjoyable; he or she reads the room and makes the party inclusive and immersive for all guests. But, more than that, an excellent DJ is an extraordinary emcee. He or she sets the tone for the entire reception, from start to finish, creating a profound and memorable experience for everyone.

In today's blog entry (the first in a series), I want to discuss the qualities that make an excellent DJ and share tips on how to find him or her for your party. I never want couples to settle for "good." 

When it comes to the world of DJing, the line between a good DJ and an excellent DJ can be subtle but significant. This distinction lies in several key factors differentiating merely competent performances from truly memorable ones. These factors include technical skills, music selection, stage presence and interaction, adaptability, emotional impact, knowing your audience intimately, and knowing how to make a crowd happy. Being an excellent DJ is more than just playing enjoyable songs.

Being an excellent DJ requires a blend of skills, knowledge, and a passion for music that sets them apart from the rest. Whether you’re a radio DJ, a a club DJ, or a mobile event DJ, certain qualities and capabilities are essential to make a mark in the industry.

One of the key aspects that makes an excellent DJ is his or her ability to mix tracks seamlessly. An excellent DJ is proficient with DJ software and a DJ mixer, enabling him or her to create smooth transitions between songs, keeping the energy alive on the dance floor. This skill is critical in various settings, from an online radio show to a high-energy club scene to a celebratory wedding dance floor..

Knowing what makes an excellent DJ will ensure you have hired someone professionally capable of handling your event. And when you’ve selected the perfect DJ for your event, everyone will have an amazing time. 

To summarize, there are many factors that make a DJ truly amazing – here are my top six most important qualities you’ll find in excellent DJs:

1. They will have the technical skills, personality, and adaptability to perform at the highest quality;

2. They will be relevant—always up to date and knowledgable about the latest songs and trends;

3. They will bring the best equipment for your venue's size and acoustics and for the number of guests in attendance;

4. They will be at all times professional, flexible, and cheerful, always approachable and courteous no matter the situation;

5. They will accommodate requests in a way that makes sense, never impeding the momentum of the dance floor; and most importantly, 

6. They will always have a plan B.

If a DJ has all of the qualifications in this entry, then he or she is a good fit for any event. While a wedding DJ might differ somewhat from a party DJ, the core aspects have to be there.

Before hiring a DJ for your event, always check to see if they have experience in the specific event you’re looking for; check their social media, live videos, and other testimonials of their performance.

Look for the next entry in this series coming soon!

When I Don't Get the Gig

January 5, 2025

When your wedding guests look to your DJ it’s usually in the moment of glory—nobody else is controlling the music, so all attention is on the DJ—personally, I'd prefer all atttention be on the music—but let’s be honest, the DJ is in the spotlight up there. It is ironic, really, because I never try to claim the spotlight. Far from it. 

Every wedding and party package I offer includes full master of ceremony responsibilities. I emcee the entire event, make all necessary and requested announcements, and guarantee things happen how you want them and when you want them according to your itinerary. But far from wanting the spotlight on me, I always keep my focus on my couples. As the emcee, I engage the crowd by being upbeat and enthusiastic with my announcements, but your guests are NOT there to see me. Most everyone can recall a horrible DJ that talked too much and wasn’t funny or warm and welcoming with their guests. You do not hire me to be a comedian. I don't have a comedy schtick or a routine. I am NOT there to insert my own identity, but to make the event all about you and your guests’ celebration. I never allow myself to become the center of attention. The same is true when playing your music. My only goal is to make the celebration as inclusive and as immersive as I possibly can. I read the room, I play requests, and I fill the dance floor. That's why you hire me. If you are looking for a DJ who interacts with your guests by doing the chicken dance on top of a speaker, you are out of luck. I am not that DJ, though I can refer you to DJs who are. Still, most attendees pay close attention, and all eyes are on me. 

So, yes, I end up in the spotlight. But today, I am in a pensive mood, and I can't help but think about the many rejections it takes before I get the gig and take my place behind the DJ booth. I think about the many rejections it takes before there I am, all eyes on me and in that position at the front of the room. It’s certainly not something those on the dance floor think about when looking at me up there doing my thing, but to secure a gig takes some work, and like any job, I deal with many more rejections than bookings.

When potential clients reach out to wedding vendors in the early stages of their planning, it really is necessary to have  thick skin.  In this business, I often spend hours following up on leads, having long conversations with them, and answering their questions, and more often or not, the time I invest does not work out. I get it. There is a very large field of competition, and while my personality mostly clicks with the couples I talk to, I can't win them all. I have heard that some DJs lash out when the leads they have invested time pursuing do not sign a contract in the end. These are the same DJs who are pushy, who bully potential clients, unnecessarily upselling extras that couples do not want (or worse, cannot afford) and rushing them for a quick sale. So many of my couples tell me that the DJs they spoke with before finding me made them feel uncomfortable, unappreciated, and undervalued. No wonder wedding DJs are so often mistrusted by the clientele. But I am not one of those DJs. When I don't get the gig, I am always gracious, and I always thank the clients for their inquiries. Then, I sit on it. I don't gripe, and I never burn bridges. I know my worth, and I am an excellent DJ. Every wedding season, my dates do fill up in a hurry. In time, I know I will be booked every Saturday from April through October. Still, rejection is never fun. 

There really are a lot of factors involved with the booking process, and there are hundreds of DJs with whom I am competing to seal the deal. It is important to remember that no matter how much work I may have put into finding an event, it is also possible to put in too much effort. I will follow up on open-ended conversations, but I will never blow up a potential client's inbox or assault their texts or voicemails with neverending messages. DJs who do this confuse me. If I were a couple looking to hire a DJ and a vendor did this to me, I would think he or she was incredibly desperate. Which begs the question: why the desperation? Something must surely be amiss. I suppose it is also possible that some DJs, especially those new to the business, have unrealistic expectations. The truth is the couples who reach out are not only pricing, they are judging the worth of every vendor they meet. And, in the end, no matter how well the conversation may have gone, the couple still doesn’t owe you a thing. Admittedly, sometimes it can feel that they do, though. It is at these times, that a wedding DJ must simply put it aside because negative energy is never helpful. And who knows?  Maybe they’ll come back to you, and maybe it’ll work out; it has happened many times in the 28 years that I have been at this. But when facing rejection, I find that positive energy is best put towards pursuing other opportunities. I would much rather maintain focus on the couples who have hired me. When a couple places their faith and trust in me on what is the most important day of their lives, they deserve me at my very best. And I make sure I give it to them.

Yes, rejection sucks, but every day, a regular job accepts hundreds of resumes for one position. Should it be surprising that the same is true for a wedding reception? I guess this blog entry is really for other DJs new to the business. That's not where I thought this entry would go, but here we are. So on the bright side, remember this: it’s not that much fun to be rejected in the regular job market for a just-above minimum wage job you don’t really want anyway, and that process is longer and more tedious. At least DJs don’t have to fill out an application every time we apply to DJ a wedding, right? 

All we have to do is put our hearts and souls on the line and be ready for a little rejection  Maybe I'm not the right fit for their vision and expectations. It doesn't happen often, but it does happen. Maybe they don't like my style or my personality, maybe they don't like my price. Maybe they won't even listen to what I have to say. Maybe they’d rather hire a local who’s not as good but cheaper and has more contacts in the area – that’s their call. I just try to make myself as attractive as possible.

My best advice is to do good research, set realistic goals for who you think will be interested in your services, and be tactful and efficient in communication. And most importantly, be patient! Good things are worth waiting for, and the couples I DJ for are the very best. There is nothing I will not do to guarantee they have the perfect wedding day. 

Growing Your Social Media Following as a DJ

December 27, 2024

This blog post is for my fellow DJs. I do not know if other DJs read my blog, but perhaps this is one way to find out. Now, I am no expert when it comes to social media, and I still have much to learn. But I have seen my business grow exponentially this year. I do not know if it is correlation or causation, but I do know that my business has grown as I have grown my social media presence, so I figure, why not share what I have learned? 

As a DJ, a strong social media presence is crucial for expanding your brand, connecting with fans, and gaining visibility in a competitive market. Whether you want to build a loyal fanbase or increase your gigs, growing your social media following can help you achieve these goals. Here’s how I have learned to leverage social media effectively to grow my DJ business. 

1. Choose the Right Platforms for Your Brand

Not all social media platforms are created equal, so it’s important to focus on the ones that align with your strengths and audience. Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook are great for most DJs, but platforms like YouTube and SoundCloud can also be valuable for showcasing your mixes and performances. Choose the platforms where your audience is most active, and tailor your content to each one, whether it’s Instagram stories, TikTok videos, or YouTube mixes.

2. Be Consistent with Your Content

Consistency is essential for staying visible on social media. Regular posting keeps you top of mind for your followers and increases engagement. Create a content calendar to ensure you’re consistently posting a mix of performance clips, personal insights, upcoming events, and behind-the-scenes moments. It’s more important to post frequently than to have perfect content—staying active keeps your audience engaged and excited to see what you share next.

3. Engage with Your Audience

Social media is about building relationships, not just broadcasting your work. Interact with your followers by responding to comments, liking posts, and starting conversations. Engaging with your audience creates a stronger connection and builds loyalty. You can also boost interaction by asking questions in your posts or using polls in Instagram stories. Reposting user-generated content, like fans sharing videos of your performances, also encourages more engagement and makes followers feel appreciated.

4. Share Behind-the-Scenes Content

Behind-the-scenes content gives fans a look into your life as a DJ, which helps humanize you and makes your brand more relatable. Share glimpses of your DJ setup, prep work, or the creative process behind your mixes. Fans love seeing what happens before and after the performance, whether it’s setting up your gear or preparing for your next wedding. I think live streams may also be an effective way to give followers real-time access to your world, whether it’s a casual Q&A or a sneak peek of your next big project. This is something I hope to do in the near future.

5. Collaborate with Other DJs and Influencers

I have been reading a lot lately about collaborations. It seems that collaborations are a powerful way to expand your social media reach. I am hoping in the new year to collaborate with other DJs or influencers to further expose my profile to a whole new audience. Perhaps I can do guest mixes for another DJ’s podcast, create joint TikTok videos, or collaborate on Instagram posts. I've never done such things, but it is apparent that these cross-promotions help grow your follower base and build connections within the DJ community, while also showing your fans that you’re part of a wider music scene.

6. Utilize Hashtags and Geotags

Hashtags and geotags are essential tools for improving the discoverability of your posts. Use popular and niche hashtags related to DJing, music genres, and events, like #DJLife, #HouseMusic, or #FestivalVibes. Geotagging your location when you’re at weddings or parties helps attract local fans or people who are planning and investing for the same kinds of events. Properly using these tools increases the chances of new fans finding your content and following you.

7. Create Shareable Content

The more shareable your content, the more exposure you’ll get. People are more likely to share videos, memes, or clips that are fun, relatable, or viral. Participate in trending challenges or remix popular memes to showcase your unique style. Highlight reels from your events also make great shareable content. Creating exclusive content makes them feel special, encouraging them to share with their networks.

8. Track Your Analytics and Adjust Your Strategy

To grow your social media following effectively, it’s important to track your performance. Use analytics tools available on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook to monitor engagement, follower growth, and content performance. Review your posts to see which ones get the most engagement, then adjust your strategy accordingly. For example, if your performance videos get more likes and shares than other types of posts, you can focus more on sharing live sets or behind-the-scenes footage.

Growing your social media following as a DJ takes time and effort, but it’s essential for building a strong, engaged fanbase. By choosing the right platforms, staying consistent with your content, engaging with your audience, and collaborating with others, you can significantly increase your reach. 

Twenty-Five Years Married

December 18, 2024

I've been thinking a lot about love this week: what it is, where it comes from, and how it is valued. The most wonderful of all things in life, I believe, is the discovery of another person with whom love grows in depth, beauty, and joy with each passing year. The continued love story between two people is the greatest gift a couple can share with one another. It is not to be taken for granted, and it should never be assumed that finding true love is guaranteed. It cannot be found by looking for it or by passionately wishing for it. It is a sort of divine accident, and the most wonderful of all things in life.

With that in mind, I was awake all night last night, trying to put into words the love I have in my heart for my wife as today begins our 25th year together. Trying to detail how thankful I am for her and how much I appreciate and value her is no easy task. Almost every year that we have been together has been better than the one before, and it is almost impossible for me to imagine how I could ever love her more than I do at this moment, yet I know tomorrow I will love her more. Every second of every day of every year, she has graced my life. She has been a blessing to me from the day I met her, and she has been my every dream come true. On this special day, I would like to let go of all my hesitations, inhibitions, and insecurities. I want to make it perfectly clear how madly I am in love with her. I want to shout it from the rooftops of the world. They say as time goes by the love between couples can fade away. But with her, my love continues growing stronger. 

It is true that we have had our moments in the dark—some so pitch black that we could not see our hands before our eyes—but we have had so many more moments in the light. Bright, radiant, blinding light. We have worked on our life together for the better and we have, I think, been mostly successful. So, really, how could I love her more? As I tell her every day, the answer is timely. She needs only to ask me tomorrow, and then I will tell her. 

I have always been a romantic, and I am not embarrassed to admit that I get incredibly sentimental. If you come close to the DJ booth, you will often find me tearing up during the first dance. The love between a bride and her groom is often so palpable that I am overcome with emotion. I just can't help myself. 

At every wedding I DJ, I watch the couples closely, looking for their “tells”—watching their mannerisms, their gestures, their treatment of one another—to guess whether or not they will make it.  As a romantic, I want every couple to succeed in their marriage. I really do believe in the power of love, and my investment in every couple I marry as an officiant and every couple whose dance floor I fill does not end when I tear down my equipment at reception's end. I regularly check in with couples who hired me for their weddings. I have become friends with most, and I want each and every one of them to have their happily ever after. Like my wife and me, I want them to make it twenty-five years. And then, I want them to make it twenty-five years more.

It seems that speculation abounds as to which relationships and marriages will last for any length of time, and for how long. Everyone has ideas about what it takes to have lasting lifelong love, and what should and should not be taking place in a couple’s life for a relationship to be healthy.

But, what does it take to keep love and a marriage strong? 

After every Anniversary Dance, I bring my mic to the winning couple who stands alone on the dance floor. They are the couple that has been married the longest. I ask their names and how many years they have been married. I then ask what advice they have for the newlywed couple. It is a running gag that most husbands answer with just two words: "yes, dear." This, they say, is the most valuable lesson they have learned from their decades together. And while there is truth to this (it's funny because it's true), I feel there are far more valuable insights that can be shared. So today, I am going to share a few things I have learned from twenty-five years of marriage. No one has asked for my advice, but I am giving it anyway. The reason? It is my hope that the couples who visit my site will find value in what I am about to share.

Now, I know that there are a plethora of helpful books, articles and blogs written that discuss just this topic—over the years, I have read more than you would believe. But the over-simplified generalizations given in the literature are all clichés. I am sure you already know what the “specialists” have to say…the proper way of conducting yourself during the dating phase, best types of premarital counseling, making sure to stay in shape, always looking your best, saying I love you, not going to bed angry, having date nights, keeping sex alive, developing your own interests, having time apart to miss each other, learning each other’s love languages, and so many other dos and don’ts.

Some of these things my wife and I have done, and some we haven’t. (Love languages, for example, are very real, and everyone should take time to learn the language of his or her partner. Not everyone loves in the same way.) But I also know that some of the generalizations above would definitely not work for us and that we understand some concepts entirely differently than other couples who read them.  This may prove true for the list I am sharing now, but if one couple finds meaning in just one of the items listed below, then that is reason enough to share it with you today.

1. Don't ever assume that your partner feels loved. Ask them. Often. And if they answer in the negative, reassure them that you love them with your actions. Words are unnecessary and often get in the way.

2. Date nights are a must. It doesn't matter if you go out or stay in, make time every week to spend quality time together.

3. Learn how to communicate effectively. Avoid sarcasm, and make certain that you check your passive-aggressiveness at the door. Genuinely listen to what your partner is telling you; do not simply wait for your turn to talk. Be sure to talk openly about what you want to change in your relationship. 

4. Go to bed angry. Seriously. Do not force a resolution before you are both ready to do so. Different people process their thoughts and feelings at different paces. And sleeping on it does help.

5. When you do fight, do not simply say that you are sorry. Say what you are sorry for, and share how you will react differently next time.

6. Your marriage will get boring sometimes. Every couple goes through ruts where they feel more like roommates than lovers. It's normal. This is the time in your relationship when you will have to put in the most effort. Love is always a choice. Never fall into complacency; rather, choose to love, and the flame will reignite in time. 

7. Some days you will have to pull more weight than your partner. On other days, he or she will have to pull more weight than you. You share equal responsibility in your marriage, but that does not mean you must share equal responsibility every day. No one has that much stamina.

8. It is paramount that you regularly check in on one another's mental health. Depression is very real and it often presents itself by a partner's apathy, indifference, and emotional distance.  Do not try to "fix" him or her. If it were that easy to cure depression, the affected partner would already be fixing him or herself. Rather, be patient, be strong, and be courageous. Get your partner the help they need. Find a counselor for you or your partner, and consider couple's counseling. Going to couple's counseling does not mean your marriage is failing; rather, it shows the value and appreciation you have for your marriage. 

9. Talk about money. Share your financial goals. Let your partner know what you expect from him or her and listen when he or she tells you the same.

10. Turn off your phones an hour before bedtime and just be with one another in the moment. During this time, ask questions: "What do you need to see more of from me?" or "How can we understand one another better?" 

11. Do not try and capture the special moments with your camera. When you do, you are not actively taking part in those moments. You are looking through a lens when you should be looking at one another.

12. Invest in couples' quiz books, date night boxes, and games. There are a number of very good ones that my wife and I have discovered, and they help bring laughter, joy, and understanding to your marriage. If you'd like the names of our favorites, shoot me an email. I would be excited to share them with you. 

Today, my wife and I are twenty-five years married. How have we remained deeply intertwined and (mostly) living out the dreams we would speak of back in the day, before marriage, talking on AOL instant messaging until the wee hours of the morning?

I don’t honestly know. 

It just seems to me that it works.

Each and every day of our marriage has brought something new, and we have embraced it together. Even those days we didn’t see eye to eye—those days we would love to forget and give anything to take back—they happened, and here we still are. It seems to me that we just grew together, experienced together, and that we chose for our lives to be together and never apart. 

In my defense, I’ve never needed a reason, I’ve never sought a reason, nor have I ever wanted a reason why, twenty-five years later, my wife and I are still here living out our lives together. One thing is for sure, though. I can’t imagine being anywhere else in life than with her, and I am looking forward to the next twenty-five years of raw and unfiltered adventures, experiences, and life as we live it.

I will end with one last piece of advice: give thanks.

Thank your partner for loving you, for being your biggest cheerleader and your  toughest critic, for giving all of him or herself to you, for never giving up on your marriage, and for making you want to be a better person—not because of some expectation that he or she may have of you, but because you want to become a better person. Your partner deserves you at your best. Make every effort to deliver. 

A Backyard DIY Wedding

December 4, 2024

Now 51 years old, I have been to more weddings than I can remember: as a guest, a seven-time groomsman, a best man, and a groom myself. And, as a wedding DJ, I have now provided DJ services to over 600 couples on their wedding days. Without question, I’ve attended a few more weddings than the average person. There have been destination weddings that wiped out my savings and lavish, red-carpet galas that cost more than I make in a year. There have also been no frills parties at local VFWs and park gazebos when couples had strict budgets and kept to them. Some couples have money to spend, others are barely scraping by. There is no shame in keeping things cheap; in truth, some of my favorite weddings have been intimate backyard affairs that ended with singalongs, bonfires, and s'mores. 

My wife and I often muse that if we were to do it again, we would likely elope. Neither of us came from money, and neither of us had money. Without having much help from our families, we saved every penny for a year and a half to pay the $8,000 price tag for our wedding. At the end of the night, in our Knights of Columbus hall rental, with two tiers of wedding cake left uneaten and a month's worth of leftover catering boxed up for guests to take home, we realized we overspent, yet we spent so much less than others we knew. That was in 1999 (we celebrate our 25th anniversary two weeks from today), and the cost of weddings over those twenty-five years has only continued to rise exponentially higher. Knowing now so much more than we did then, my wife and I both agree that if we could go back in time and do it all over again...

we would elope. 

I am being completely serious. The money we spent on our wedding could have yielded a life-changing global tour of a honeymoon, the likes of which would have dwarfed our four days and three nights in the Bahamas. Or—and this would have been much more sensible—the money could have been better spent as a deposit on our first home. It is probably unwise for a wedding DJ to encourage couples to elope, but here is a life lesson learned late: keeping things simple allows you to prioritize the things that really matter. This is why, today, I thought I would share my experience (both personal and professional). Today's entry is for those brides who are budget-conscious. Most of us don’t have access to unlimited funds, so we have to make do within our means. Hence, the birth of the backyard do-it-yourself wedding. I have DJed quite a few over the years.

Here are some suggestions for navigating your big day when money is limited. 

You can have a beautiful wedding day without going broke. 

First, you need to prioritize. With so many things that you can spend money on at your wedding, it is important to focus your energy (and money) on the things that matter most. How do you decide what’s most important? Here is a simple trick: think back to the last wedding you attended. Think about what stands out in your mind, and there is your answer. Very few wedding guests remember party favors, shoes, linens, chair covers, or flowers. But these things all cost money. So many things that seem so important now will mean very little after the day is over. I am in no way suggesting that you will regret having these things. I am just saying you do not want to drive yourself crazy over the little things. And then there is this: when you do it yourself, some things may seem easier than they really are. 

For starters, I have known too many brides who hired friends to shoot their wedding photos—often these brides had seen their friends' photos in person or on social media—and they were taken aback by their beauty. But I have known many brides who have lamented their decisions. While their friends may have taken some beautiful photos, they were not professional wedding photographers. Because of this, the friends missed several moments that would normally be photographed. The friends also took photos that these brides believed would look perfect when framed on their walls at home, only to find they were heavily shadowed or underexposed. A professional photographer is a must. You do not need to purchase their biggest packages. Many photographers offer mini-sessions of just a few hours; that is enough time to guarantee you get the photos you want most. I know many professional photographers who are affordable and who will work within your budget. Please ask me for their names. And if you are lucky enough to have a friend who is a professional photographer, remember this: if they are close friends, sometimes it is still best to hire a professional. You may later regret that your closest friend was working during your wedding; I know brides whose wedding photos were their friends' wedding gifts to them. While they love their photos, many have told me they later wished their friends had instead been guests and celebrating with them.

If you want to make your own centerpieces go for it—as long as your plans do not require assembly the night before your big day. Crepe paper, fake flowers, and Styrofoam are not much fun at 2 a.m. the day of your wedding. Creating your decorations should be fun, not stressful. For our wedding, we made our own centerpieces, and to this day it remains one of my wife's biggest regrets. When she remembers them, it often makes her sad. They were cheap, but that wasn't the problem. The problem was that they looked cheap. This was before YouTube tutorials, and we did not have particularly creative and artistic friends. Thinking only of the cost, we purchased the cheapest materials the craft store supplied. Big mistake. Do not spend a fortune, but spend enough. Also, be sure to research, plan, and prepare—all three are free to do—before diving into any project. We learned our lesson. Years later, as we prepared for my older son's bar mitzvah, my wife made the decorations herself...and they looked incredible. I have even suggested she should open an Etsy store and sell her products and designs from the bar mitzvah (it was Nintendo themed, which remains as popular as ever). Another lesson learned. 

But here is the BIG one. If you do not want to hire a professional caterer, go for a fool-proof buffet. Who doesn't love a taco bar or a slice of pizza? Fan favorites are always a hit; don't be afraid to serve easy choices. But catering is more complicated than this. Your catering staff does so much more than preparing and serving your food. Here are just a few things couples sometimes overlook: decide in advance who will be serving champagne, who will be cutting and plating your cake, and who will be clearing dirty plates after dinner. I have seen brides in their wedding gowns busing tables and taking huge, leaking garbage bags to the trash. I think it’s a crime! This is your special day. Even if you hire a couple of teenagers to do this, it’s well worth it. Also, if your caterer is not a professional, he or she may not know that you eat first. Never begin serving your guests dinner before you get yours. The bride and groom always come first. 

As far as music goes, with iTunes and Spotify subscriptions, music is readily available. I always tell my couples that any teenager with an iPhone can play their music. It won't sound very good, but it can be done. But there's a catch. Customizing a playlist for your cocktail hour or dinner is easy; your ceremony and dancing, not so much. Like your photographer, hiring a professional DJ is always your best bet. This is not self-referential, and I am not making a play for your money by saying this. I am just being honest. Your iPhone can’t take requests, it can't fade out a song that’s not working, and it can't adapt and adjust to what songs are getting the best dance response. It is impossible to pre-select playlists that can read the room, that can build momentum, and that can keep all guests of all ages dancing throughout the night.  Nor can your iPhone provide introductions, make announcements, or coordinate with your photographer and caterer so everything runs smoothly.

It is often said that most wedding guests remember just two things: the food and the music, but it is simpler than that. Most people remember one thing only. They remember if they had fun. That is especially true of the bride and groom. So focus on the things that make it fun. If, at the end of the night, you didn’t have fun at your own wedding, you will always regret it. You only get one chance.  I cherish my wedding day memories. It wasn't perfect, but we were happy, and we had fun.  

But, unlike me and my wife, you still have time to save the money and elope.

A few weeks ago, a wedding guest confided in me that she was terrible at timing the descent. She said she always ends up way too low way too early. It’s a problem. Then, she either has to just sit there until the section is over or say “screw it” and basically get on the floor. She's not alone. Even as a DJ, I often have the same issue, and it got me thinking. 

I wanted to figure out a rule of thumb for descending during the “a little bit softer now.” This meant figuring out the average distance between someone’s starting height and his or her finishing height and spacing out the difference evenly over the “a little bit softer now” section. This involved walking around my office with a tape measure and bugging my wife.

This is definitely a non-scientific sample, but, on average, my wife dropped to a little less than 60 percent of her full height when asked to get into the “softest” position she’d want to be in at the end of the “a little bit softer now[s].”

There are 15 repetitions of “a little bit softer now” in the song. Let’s say you want to be at your full height on the first and at your lowest on the last. You’ll need to drop 15 times. How much should you drop each time?

Here’s the best rule of thumb I could figure out: Take your height in feet and divide it by three, and descend that many inches on every “a little bit softer now.” If you are, say, 6 feet tall, you should drop by 2 inches with every “softer now.”

Plugging this metric in for the guinea pig my wife, the difference between her ideal end point and the predicted end point was 1.9 inches, which wasn’t that bad. If you’re a flexible person, descend a little faster. If you’re less flexible, descend slower because nobody wants to be seated on the floor waiting for others to join him or her.

Anyway, the rest of the song keeps things simple. You just jump around and go crazy. It's an easy dance, which makes it popular at weddings, proms, and other events where many rhythmically challenged people end up on the dance floor.

The song is a mainstay. Immortalized by Animal House, "Shout" has become the quintessential party song. It always will be. 

I should add that the version in Animal House was performed by a fictional band called Otis Day And The Knights, with Otis played by actor DeWayne Jessie. After the movie became a huge hit, Jessie was getting constant requests to perform. He quickly put together a real Otis Day and The Knights and became a touring act, mostly hitting college campuses. They were still touring into the 2010s. In 1989, they released an album called Shout.

Jessie is not the only artist to cover the song. "Shout" helped introduce the singing sensation Lulu. The Scottish singer went to London at age 15 and recorded a version of the song with her group Lulu & The Luvvers. Early on, Lulu often performed in blues clubs where the song was a great fit. She soon became a very successful actress as well, appearing in the film To Sir With Love and scoring a #1 US hit with the movie's title track.

Lulu, just 13 at the time, was introduced to "Shout" by the Scottish rocker Alex Harvey, who she saw perform it in a Glasgow club called The Scene. Lulu added it to her act with The Luvvers, and it became their first hit when Lulu sang it at an audition for Decca records. She had a terrible cold when she recorded it, which gave her a rougher sound that suited the song.

"Shout" charted seven times in America from 1959-1969. The original Isley Brothers version went to #47 in 1959. A cover version by Joey Dee And The Starlighters went to #6 in 1962; that same year a re-release of the Isley's original went to #94. Lulu's version, a huge UK hit (it peaked at #7 in the UK), reached #94 in 1964, the same year Dion's version hit #108. Lulu's cover was re-released in 1967 and reached #96. Finally, the Chambers Brothers took the song to #83 in 1969. The Isleys would not have another hit until "Twist and Shout" in 1962, though the Beatles' cover of that track outperformed the Isley's original on the charts as well.

Though “Shout” only reached No. 47 on Billboard’s pop chart in 1959, it became the Isley Brothers’ first million-selling record thanks to its enduring popularity and covers by many other artists. Everyone knows the song today, and it is a guaranteed floor filler, which goes to show that Billboard ranking does not always determine a song's acclaim and favorability. 

And in case you missed it, Nike re-created the Animal House scene with "Shout" in a 2015 video celebrating University of Oregon athletics - company founder Phil Knight is an alumnus and the company is based in Oregon. Appearing in the spot are popular University of Oregon athletes, past and present, including football players Dan Fouts, Marcus Mariota, Ahmad Rashad, Dennis Dixon and Joey Harrington; track stars English Gardner, Mandy White and Galen Rupp; and the Duck mascot. Otis Day (DeWayne Jessie) reprised his role from the film. You can find the video on YouTube.

And, as a final aside, "Shout" was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999 (as it should be.)

How To Support Your Local Mobile DJs 

November 17, 2024

The heartbeat of any vibrant music scene lies within its local mobile DJs. These talented individuals are not just entertainers; they are the fabric of our communities, weaving together diverse sounds and cultures. Supporting local mobile DJs fosters creativity, encourages community engagement, and helps sustain the arts. If you’re passionate about music and want to uplift your local talent, here are some effective ways to show your support. 

1. Attend Live Performances

One of the simplest yet most impactful ways to support local mobile DJs is to attend their performances. Live performances are a crucial source of income for artists, and your presence can make a significant difference. Check local listings for community events, dance parties, karaoke nights, and festivals featuring local talent. Bringing friends along not only enhances your experience but also helps to build a larger audience for the artists.

2. Promote Their Businesses 

Use your social media platforms to promote local mobile DJs. Share their videos, create playlists featuring their recommended set lists, promote their websites, and write about your favorite performances. When visiting their social media sites, invite your friends to like and follow them. Two mouse clicks, and you can reach out to hundred—perhaps, thousands—of friends. Statistically, at least a dozen of your friends are currently planning parties or weddings. Consider tagging the artists when you post about their performances to encourage further engagement and exposure. Word-of-mouth and online sharing are powerful tools that can help local mobile DJs reach a wider audience. 

3. Purchase Their Merchandise

When you purchase merchandise from local mobile DJs—whether it’s through social media or their personal websites—you contribute directly to their livelihood. Purchasing T-shirts, vinyl, or stickers can provide much-needed support. Every purchase counts and helps local mobile DJs continue to entertain audiences with the music you love. 

4. Create and Share Playlists

Curate playlists that feature suggested songs and recommended set lists from local mobile DJs and share them with your friends or on social media. This not only showcases their music knowledge, it also introduces new listeners to their work. Platforms like Spotify and Apple Music allow users to create and share playlists easily, making this an enjoyable way to support your favorite local mobile DJs. 

5. Engage with Their Content

Follow local mobile DJs on social media platforms and engage with thei posts. Comment  on their updates, share their content, and participate in any online events they may host, This engagement boosts their visibilirt and encourages them to keep creating and sharing their art. 

6. Support Local Bars and Music Venues

Local bars and music venues are vital to the ecosystem of live performances. By attending events, buying drinks or food, and spreading the word about these venues, you help ensure they can continue to host local talent. Consider supporting venues that prioritize local mobile DJs and provide them with opportunities to showcase their skills. 

7. Volunteer for Events

Many local mobile DJs host events, from gigs to fundraisers, and they often need volunteers. Offering your time to help with setup, promotion, or logistics not only supports the event but also strengthens the local music community. Plus, it’s a great way to meet fellow music lovers and network within the scene.

8. Encourage Local Media Coverage 

Encourage local blogs, magazines, podcasts, and radio stations to cover local mobile DJs. Reach out to your favorite media outlets and suggest features or interviews with these artists. Increased media exposure can help local talent gain recognition and build their following. 

9. Keep It Simple

At the very least, when attending a party or wedding, if you enjoy the local mobile DJ's performance, ask him or her for their business card. Ask for a few business cards. Then, when talking with friends who are planning a party or wedding, give them one of the cards. Referrals are the best way to fill a DJ's calendar. Be sure, too, to leave a review! A majority of clients say they will leave a review but don't. Every positive review left on Google, Facebook, or Yelp helps to grow a local mobile DJ's business exponentially. Just a couple of minutes of you time can result in  three or more bookings.

Supporting local mobile DJs is about more than just enjoying their music; it’s about fostering a thriving community that values creativity and artistic expression. By attending events, promoting their work, and engaging with them on social media, you contribute to a supportive ecosystem that allows local talent to flourish. So next time you hear a track that moves you or witness an electrifying performance, take a moment to think about how you can give back to those who bring the music to life. Together, we can create a vibrant local music scene that celebrates and uplifts our talented local mobile DJs.

The First Dance

November 15, 2024

In a day of nonstop formalities, the First Dance is arguably the most important (and most feared) moment of your reception. I know from experience that some couples dread the thought of having the watchful eyes of their friends and family focused on them for the longest four minutes of their lives. 

I've got good news for introverts everywhere: it doesn’t need to be this way. With some forethought and discussion this can be overcome quite easily — and this is coming from a guy with two left feet. 

If you are stressing about your First Dance, I strongly suggest discussing your concerns with your DJ. 

Through the years, I have DJed for shy couples as well as those who enjoy the limelight. Having this experience means I can offer suggestions based on similar couples from the past and, hopefully, provide a solution that ensures peace of mind.

The song choice should ideally be a song that means something to you. Don’t worry about selecting a track that nobody else has heard before; all that matters is that the song you choose means something to the two of you. If you are having difficulty picking between several selections, I suggest practicing your first dance to all  of them to find the tempo that works best for the two of you. Once you have chosen the perfect song to meet your wedding day vision and expectations, then we can discuss when you will dance and for how long. 

You can begin your First Dance immediately following your entrance; we can fade out a song early if you wish; or we can invite other couples onto the dance floor after a minute or two so you can continue to enjoy your first dance without being the focus of attention. We can also combine your First Dance with the Anniversary Dance; you are the first couple eliminated from the dance floor, after all. And let's not forget that no two weddings are ever the same. Your wedding should be uniquely YOU. An uptempo song works just a well. There are no hard rules; there is only what makes you feel most comfortable. 

It is also important to consider the role of your photographer and videographer.  If either is leaving early, I suggest at least 90 seconds of dancing to ensure he or she can get the perfect shot.  I coordinate with both throughout the evening; together, we  discuss the time scale, lighting, and position of both you and your guests. And if no photographer or videographer is booked, the first dance can be as long (or as short) as you like. 

I also find that a solid introduction can work wonders as well. Three to five minutes prior, I like to announce that the first dance will take place shortly. This allows everyone to return to the room to take their positions. If you’re having a summer wedding I often encourage a groomsman or bridesmaid to go outside to round everyone up. And when it is time to begin, I enthusiastically announce the first dance to encourage applause and  cheers. This typically helps to give the shyest of brides and grooms a much-needed shot of confidence as well.

These are just a few of the tips and tricks that I can use to make your First Dance as memorable (and as painless) as possible; there are many more.  You hire your DJ to play music, but more than that, you hire your DJ to accommodate your individual needs. That is what I promise to do.

Karma Chameleon

November 7, 2024

As a DJ, I have played a vast array of music to a wide variety of audiences. From urban cowboys to hip-hoppers, from metalheads to jazz aficionados, and everything in between. From grandmothers to babies in the womb, from sweet sixteens to senior executives, and everything in between. In basements that hold, maybe, a dozen people to stadiums that hold 3,000, on university campuses to passers-by on their way to classes to cozy bonfires deep in the woods with intimate close friends who refuse to call it a night, and everything in between. And across all races, faiths, and ethnicities.

As a DJ, you have to be malleable and adaptable. You have to learn how to converse with people who are not like you, sometimes with people who do not speak the same language. You have to be a supporter of everyone who walks through the door so as to not offend others with your choices. You have to read the room. You have to take a pulse of who and what stands before the DJ booth. You have to open yourself up to road trips to visit cities, towns, and villages with names you cannot pronounce. And you have to be an incredible networker who welcomes new friendships with those whose paths you would never otherwise cross.  You also have to navigate a world where some people are there for the music, and some people are there for, well, other things: talking to one person high on the music is a different conversation than talking to another person who's just high.

When you've been a DJ for as long as I have, you are able to apply your experiences across generations to what you do in your career. You have far more to offer because you know how to work the room. You know how to traverse spaces and cultures. Being a DJ is not just about playing music, it's about connecting with others. It's about building bridges. It's about finding commonalities and celebrating them. It's about bringing people together for the common good. It's about expressions of joy, pain, and sadness because each song you play emits an explosion of feelings each person takes in, interprets, and hears the way they want or need to hear it. Sometimes, even the way they don't want to hear it.

A seasoned DJ is a chameleon who can channel that energy and find a place and time to express through music what most people cannot or will not say or do. A seasoned DJ make everyone feel comfortable, welcome, and safe. That, folks, is good karma.

Lastly, you ALWAYS have to show up. No one likes a no-show DJ.

Respect the DJ. Respect the art. 

MIXTAPE MEMORIES

November 2, 2024

I miss mixtapes. I mean I really miss them. If you were one of those kids with a pencil at the ready to spool a cassette after the tape came loose, I imagine you pine for the days of the mixtape, too.

The art — and make no mistake about it, it was an art — of making a mixtape is lost on a generation that needs only to drag and drop digital files to complete a playlist. The meticulous recording of song after song — from records, other cassettes, the radio, and perhaps the occasional 8-track — to make the perfect musical love letter is a forgotten pastime. The “mixes” we create today on iTunes or Spotify are just playlists held hostage inside a device. There is no blood, sweat, or tears involved in the making of them.

There was once a ritual to making a perfect mixtape, one that could take hours to finish, maybe even days, depending on how much you wanted to impress the recipient. While the songs had to have a common theme, it was forbidden to simply take a bunch of love songs and throw them on a tape. It was about so much more than grouping some songs together. They had to segue. They had to flow into one another organically. Each song needed to be a continuation of the one before it, as if all these disparate bands got together and recorded a concept album based solely on your feelings for the girl who sat in front of you on the bus ride home.

How vividly I remember my albums strewn about my bedroom in preparation. (Clean up would sometimes require an hour or more to match record to sleeve and sleeve to cover. ) The process was neither simple nor smooth. There were inputs and outputs and levels to be adjusted. I had to make sure the cables were all in the right sockets. Then came time to press RECORD and PLAY and then PAUSE to ready the cassette. How many hours were lost to the trial and error of recording the next song? How many recordings were fraught with false-starts? Painfully, I had to stop, then restart each song to hit the pause button at just the right time. And that process was nowhere near as difficult as painstakingly timing the drop of the needle to the vinyl below. Too often I miscalculated — leaving an uncomfortable moment of space between two songs — only to find solace when the unintentional hiss became part of the mix. Upon the third listen, that sound would no longer be a piece of imperfection, but part of the flow of the tape — six seconds of dead air turned metaphor for the silence in my relationship. Yes, even after years of practice my mixtapes were sometimes full of bumpy starts, abrupt endings and the clunk of buttons being pressed.

When the mixtape was finished, I’d sit back and admire my handiwork. I would listen to the mixtape again. And again. Then, I’d play it a couple of times more, each time making sure the theme remained unbroken. I would play the mixtape until I was certain that the message was clear and concise, that the segues were perfect, Then I’d diligently write the track list on the card provided with the cassette, squeezing in the long titles, making sure I spelled the artist’s name correctly, obsessively checking over and over again that the track listing was correct. Then, for the next two hours I would lie back on my bed staring at the cassette while I tried to come up with a brilliant title. Titles were imperative; they had to speak for the incredible music contained in the cassette and the torch I carried. It didn’t matter if the cassette was a a sampling of my favorite songs for a good friend, a subtle gift for a new crush, a reprimand for the ex who broke my heart, or a morose acknowledgment of the void in my life — I had to have the right title.

Kids today will never know the pain and anguish of finishing a mixtape only to realize that the first song skipped, thus forcing you to scrap the finished product and start all over again (true story — it happened one time only, but lesson learned — I never again left the room while recording from vinyl). They will never know the fear and anxiety you felt when slipping that mixtape into a crush’s desk the next day at school. They will never know the thrill of your crush calling that night to say, “Wow, I had no idea you were a Beatles fan. That’s really cool.” They’ll never know what it was like to be on the receiving end of a mixtape, to run home and listen to it on your headphones trying to find the message within, anticipating the next track, swooning when a song about friendship segued into a song about friends falling in love.

There is no question that the mixtape defined my adolescence. It was the ultimate gift of self-expression to a friend or loved one. The process was designed for someone who loved music, who wanted another person to love the same music, and, by extension, to love him or her. A mixtape said “This is who I am and what I know and what I can show you.” At the same time, the mixtape signaled to the recipient, “ I know who you are and what you like and I have thought deeply about that.”

It is true that mixtapes took thought, time, and an intimate knowledge of the person for whom the mixtape was made. But in this way, within the confines of two short sides of a cassette, and from my own assemblage of albums and the frequencies on my FM dial, I curated a one-of-a-kind soundtrack to express my thoughts and feelings about friends and lovers, and I did it in a way that often allowed me to introduce them to music they did not know but that I loved. And let's not forget the mixtapes I made for myself.

There were mixtapes that I played to destruction but which define the memory of a time and place. Once, when my life abruptly changed, I propelled myself through it all on a mixtape of pounding hair band anthems that I have not wanted to listen to since: Poison, Warrant, Motley Crue. There was a mixtape I made for driving to work 22 years ago that even now, whenever I drive through the old neighborhood, I can hear Wilson Pickett followed by Earth, Wind and Fire, then Prince. That particular constellation is fixed in my memory because of that mixtape.

There remains a certain intimacy in making a mixtape. It says, "I care about you enough to carefully select some songs that speak to the specifics of our relationship." It says, "I'm happy to buy some blank tapes and spend an evening methodically recording songs onto them via a two-slot cassette player" or "You are worth the effort involved in illegally downloading MP3s, risking viruses, and recording them via USB." They take time and consideration. Which, in this economy, means something.

Don’t misunderstand. I’m not nostalgic for the difficulty I had in finding and hearing music in the 1980s. It’s wonderful to be able to think of a song and then listen to it just like that. But the mixtape is a form of communication that is constrained and individual. It reconstructs an experience that has been diluted. I’d love to see the cassette make a comeback. I would love for everyone to have the chance to learn the art of the mixtape. Yes, we can easily do the same on a computer, but let’s be real. Do kids today put such loving care into making a Spotify playlist? I have my doubts.

I wish today’s youth could know the joy of the finished product, the feel of the cassette in their hands, the hand-written tracklist, that fine string of tape they could pull out of the cassette in fits of emotion when their relationships soured. Memories such as these make this artifact of another era so much more than just a playlist. 

It should also be added that the mixtape was my first jaunt into the world of DJing. There is little difference between the two. Curating the perfect mix of songs for people I care about, the major milestones they are celebrating, and the lasting memories of those moments in time. It is what I do every Saturday night. The only difference? I cannot hand them a finished product at the end of the night to listen to later. I'm showing my age, but the mixtape defined my generation. The product may no longer be in fashion, but the process lives on at the heart of what I do.

A SPOOKY SOUNDTRACK

October 26, 2024

For the first time since COVID, I will not be DJing on Halloween night. I was hired for a party on the 31st, but the revelers canceled two weeks ago after learning that the majority of their invites would be unable to attend. I was saddened by the cancellation because Halloween is my favorite holiday, and Halloween parties are always my favorite parties year  after year. 

I am a fan of all things horror; television, movies, literature, comics, anime, or cosplay, it does not matter. I am all-in. And nothing makes me happier than curating the perfect soundtrack for a Halloween party. While I will be staying at home this All Hallows Eve, it does not mean that I will squander my opportunity to discuss the perfect mix of music for those of you who have parties planned. As we roll into the Halloween homestretch, it’s time to dust the cobwebs off of the candy bowls and string together that playlist of creepy tunes for those upcoming parties and shindigs. Iconic standbys such as “Monster Mash” or “Ghostbusters” will likely garner shrieks of joy from younger goblins, but if you truly want to kill it at that pumpkin carving get-together, you might want to consider digging a bit deeper into the cauldron of nefarious songs to unearth some novel numbers for your spooky setlist. 

Nailing that quintessential Halloween playlist is all about creating a haunted mood.

While the unsettling sounds of rattling chains, hollow resounding voices and screeching violins are certain to send a chill down the spines on Elm Street, the musical landscape is littered with a labyrinth of grim songs which are not considered traditional Halloween tunes, yet still deliver a cryptic romp. Scary or fun, these songs are a treat that will always do the trick.

Below, I will share five of my very favorite tracks in several categories of Halloween music. It is my hope that by doing this, I may inspire you to curate a new playlist for this year's Halloween bash. Some of these songs you may not know. Others you likely never considered. The secret lies in both titles and lyrics. And let's not forget that Halloween is a time when people are encouraged to mask up and put on a different persona. A lot of people dress for pop culture allowing us to breach a broad spectrum of music. You'll want to introduce your party guests to songs they've not heard before and play the most popular tracks. I will also include a number of Honorable Mentions. Trust me. The perfect combination is a mix that is disturbing, haunting, and fun. Together, these tracks will create a vibe and set the mood for an evening unlike any you have experienced before.  “If you build it, they will come."

1. FOR THE KIDS

"The Headless Horseman" by Thurl Ravenscroft

"Lil' Red Riding Hood" by Sam the Sham and the Pharoahs

"The Purple People Eater" by Sheb Wooley

"Spooky, Scary Skeletons" by Andrew Goldman

"This Is Halloween" by The Citizens of Halloween

2. THE MUST PLAYS

"Ghostbusters" by Ray Parker, Jr.

"I Want Candy" by Bow Wow Wow

"Monster Mash" by Bobby "Boris" Pickett

"Somebody's Watching Me" by Rockwell

"Werewolves of London" by Warren Zevon

3. THE CLICHÉS

"Bad Moon Rising" by Creedence Clearwater Revival

"Black Magic Woman" by Santana

"Highway to Hell" by AC/DC

"(Don't Fear) The Reaper" by Blue Öyster Cult

"Witchy Woman" by The Eagles

4. THE OFTEN OVERLOOKED

"Dead Man's Party" by Oingo Boingo

"The Devil Went Down to Georgia" by The Charlie Daniels Band

"I Put a Spell on You" by Screamin' Jay Hawkins

"Nightmare on My Street" by DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince

"Season of the Witch" by Lana Del Rey

5. THE UNEXPECTED

"The Boogie Monster" by Gnarls Barkley

"Bury a Friend" by Billie Eilish

"Dracula's Wedding" by Outkast

"The Man Comes Along" by Johnny Cash

"The Monster" by Eminem

6. THE UNCONVENTIONAL

"Bring Me to Life" by Evanesence

"Devil Inside" by INXS

"Dr. Heckyll & Mr. Jive" by Men at Work

"Excitable Boy" by Warren Zevon

"Hungry Like the Wolf" by Duran Duran

7. THE NOVELTY

"The Cockroach That Ate Cincinnati" by Rose and the Arrangement

"Dinner with Drac" by John Zacherle

"Nature Trail to Hell" by "Weird Al" Yankovic

"Two Big Pumpkins" by Elvira. Mistress of the Dark

"Werewolf Bar Mitzvah" by Donald Glover and Tracy Morgan

8. THE NOT WELL KNOWN

"Bela Lugosi's Dead" by Bauhaus

"Bloodletting (The Vampire Song)" by Concrete Blonde

"The Curse of Millhaven" by Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds

"I Was a Teenage Werewolf" by The Cramps

"Wicked Annabella" by The Kinks

9. THE DANCE FLOOR

"Disturbia" by Rihanna

"Look What You Made Me Do" by Taylor Swift

"She-Wolf" by Shakira

"Thriller" by Michael Jackson

"The Time Warp" by Nell Campbell, Patricia Quinn, and Richard O'Brien

10. SPOKEN WORD

"Frankie Teardrop" by Suicide

"Hamburger Lady" by Throbbing Gristle

"Mother" by The Police

"They're Coming to Take Me Away, Ha-Haah!" by Napoleon XIV

"What's He Building?" by Tom Waits

11. THE TRULY FRIGHTENING

"Avalanche" by Leonard Cohen

"Black Sabbath" by Black Sabbath

"Cannibal" by Marika Hackman

"The Fine Art of Poisoning" by Jill Tracy

"I Love the Dead" by Alice Cooper

12. THE  INSTRUMENTALS

"Psycho" Score by Bernard Herrmann

"Threnody to the Victims of Hiroshima" by Krzystof Penderecki

"Volumina for Organ" by György Ligeti  

"Night on Bald Mountain" by Modest Mussorgsky

"Jaws" Score by John Williams

HONORABLE MENTION

"After Dark" by Tito and the Tarantulas

"Bang Bang (My Baby Shot Me Down)" by Nancy Sinatra

"Boris the Spider" by The Who

"Cry Little Sister" by Gerard McMahon

"Dead" by The Pixies

"Maxwell's Silver Hammer" by The Beatles

"Night with the Jersey Devil" by Bruce Springsteen

"The Killing Moon" by Echo and the Bunnymen

“Murder on the Dancefloor” by Sophie Ellis-Bextor

"Psycho Killer" by Talking Heads

"Puttin on the Ritz" by Gene Wilder, Peter Boyle, and Cast of Young Frankenstein

"Spellbound" by Siouxsie and the Banshees

"Witch Queen of New Orleans" by Redbone

"Vampires, Mummies, and the Holy Ghost" by Jimmy Buffett

"You're Dead" by Norma Tanega

As a final note, menacing music sets that ghostly aura, but background elements can help to cement it. If you have plans to party next Thursday night, consider adding a fog machine and lighting—shades of purple, green, and orange will do nicely—or  maybe make it a black light party. A multi-sensory experience will help keep those vampires and gremlins quivering with delight. 

Halloween parties are unlike any other events in that they typically enjoy an anything goes atmosphere. It is this relaxed enviornment which really fuels the black magic of a Halloween event. On October 31, we all just seem to let loose a little bit more than at your average get-togethers. You get to put on a costume—anyone and anything you want to be, you can be at a Halloween party—that, to me, makes Halloween parties the very best parties of all.

LINE DANCES: A NECESSARY EVIL?

October 18, 2024

People often talk about Disco Demolition Night at Comiskey Park— a promotional event held on July 12, 1979, when a bunch of drunken idiots caught the ball park on fire — as if it singlehandedly ended disco’s reign. But Disco Demolition Night is not what killed disco. The disco backlash was much more widespread than that. For starters, Racism and homophobia helped to remove disco from the Hot 100, but the haters were only partly responsible. In reality, disco’s demise was largely the fault of the major record labels. After Saturday Night Fever, the recording industry went all-in on disco. Every artist in the world, from Elton John to Frank Sinatra, was suddenly cutting dance tracks, and the market quickly became oversaturated. Sales started tanking and the record industry panicked and pulled out. Disco was all over the charts in June 1979, then completely gone by December. Seemingly overnight, KC and the Sunshine Band were out, The Commodores transitioned to easy listening, and The Bee Gees became a punchline. No one had any idea what to replace disco with, and the entire recording industry fell into a massive slump until the rise of MTV and its early rotation of videos by new wave artists.

But the mighty pendulum is constantly swinging, and in 1992, dance floors changed once more. The crossover appeal of country music was at an all-time high, and songs like "Achy Breaky Heart" by Billy Ray Cyrus and "Boot Scootin’ Boogie" by Brooks and Dunn found their way into every event playlist. Whether working weddings, teen dances, birthday parties, or bars, everyone was suddenly side-stepping and shuffling in unison.  Country line dances reigned supreme, and soon enough, other songs that had been long silenced also re-entered the zeitgeist. It was the return of disco. Disco classics that had become footnotes in the history of popular music were resurrected. Chief among them were Marcia Griffiths's "Electric Boogie" and The Village People's "YMCA." The line dance craze held illimitable dominion over all. 

Not long after, a young DJ named Willie Perry, Jr., created a song for his nephew David Wilson's step aerobics class at Bally Total Fitness in Chicago. He titled the song "Casper Slide, Part 1," after his DJ stage name. The song proved so popular at the gym, Perry soon began selling copies of the song from the trunk of his car in the Bally's parking lot. And then, he struck gold. The Chicago location soon shared the track with the larger Bally's chain, which further helped to grow its popularity. The song was so in demand that Perry recorded a new version called "Casper Slide, Part 2." This new release was quickly picked up by Chicago radio station WGCI-FM on its way to global notoriety. Known today as "The Cha-Cha Slide," it reinforced the lasting power of line dances. 

We call them line dances, but, more accurately, they are  participation songs. Historians and anthropologists are quick to point out that participation songs are a reflection of a culture's identity. I doubt that many wedding guests equate American line dances with the participation songs found in other cultures foreign to our experience. Whether performed as rites or in rituals, to chants or in popular music, participation songs have a long history and are found in most corners of the world. Some are ethnic, others are religious, but they all foster community and encourage inclusivity in celebration. The Greeks have the Hasapiko, the Indians have the Sangeet, the Jews have the Hora, the Japanese have the Bon. If anything, Americans were late in making group dancing a cultural phenomenon. 

Many couples ask that I not play line dances. They are often listed in their Do Not Play lists. If a couple chooses not to include line dances, then I will absolutely respect their wishes, but I do try to explain to them that it is a disservice to their wedding guests. Line dances will always fill your dance floor, and for good reason.  Many wedding guests are only comfortable dancing to line dances. Guests who are self-conscious about their dancing ability enjoy line dances for two reasons: first, line dances give instructions, telling dancers what to do; and second, everyone on the dance floor moves in the exact same way. Guests who believe they are not good dancers are very self-conscious. They often feel embarrassed or insecure if they believe others are watching them.  But  guests do not feel embarrassed when line dancing because they know they are not being judged for their dance moves.  When line dancing, even the worst dancers are just as good (or just as bad) as everyone else around them. Line dances are comfortable because they are uniform. 

Couples must ask themselves how important it is to them that their guests dance. If it is not a primary concern, that is absolutely fine. But keep in mind that if guests are not dancing, they are more likely to leave early. Couples pay a lot of money to secure their venue until late in the evening. If their guests should leave early and the party comes to an abrupt end, that is money they will not get back.  

Like it or not, line dances are here to stay. Your guests will ask for "The Wobble" every fifteen minutes until it is played. And it never fails that as soon as I play one line dance, your guests will invariably come to the DJ booth to ask that I play another line dance next. To that, I tell them no. Line dances need to be spread out. If I play all line dances one after another, I have lost one of the best resources I have to bring guests back to the dance floor when it begins to clear. But their requests to have all line dances play in succession is proof positive that line dances are essential when creating a party atmosphere.  

I already mentioned the mighty pendulum. Participation songs did not begin with the country line dances of the 90s. "The Bunny Hop," "The Hokey Pokey," "The Stroll," "The Limbo," "The Hustle," "Apache," and "Thriller" were all party standards in their day. Some of these titles peaked in popularity fifty years before Billy Ray Cyrus grew out his mullet.  And, arguably, the conga line has never gone out of fashion. But unlike these fads of the past,  line dances as we know them today are here to stay. You are best to include them in your Must Plays. And, if you are not a fan? That's easy. When "Cotton Eye Joe" begins to play, find your way to the bar, hit the rest room, step outside to take a breather. The line dance will end soon enough. It is okay to excuse yourself for the four minutes that it plays. 

Make no mistake, your wedding should be uniquely YOU. Your guests are there to support you; it is not your responsibility to cater to their requests. However, you do want them to enjoy themselves. Sometimes, line dances are a necessary evil to extend the life of your party. That should be reason enough to let them work their magic.

LET'S TALK ABOUT GHOSTING

October 4, 2024

It is now October, and ghosts are goblins can be found everywhere. But while I can't speak for goblins, it turns out that ghosts are found all year long.

This wedding season has been the worst I have ever experienced when it comes to ghosting. Since April, I have taken the time to hold multiple long conversations with some clients, to meet them in person, to provide customized quotes, and to prepare contracts at their requests, and then. . .nothing. I never hear from them again.

I wish all clients were courteous and respectful of all wedding vendors. It is perfectly okay to tell us that you have decided to go with someone else. It is okay if we aren't what's best for your specific needs. And it is okay if our services are not within your budgets. Just tell us.

I ALWAYS want what is best for all clients. And, admittedly, sometimes I am NOT what is best. I wish I was always the right fit, but sometimes, I am just not your guy. I do not take it personally. In fact, I tell all clients in my first conversations with them that I hope their events are absolutely magical no matter who DJs for them, and I genuinely mean it. Especially when it comes to weddings. I am a romantic through and through. I always want what's best for the brides I speak with, and sadly, sometimes I'm not what's best. It makes no difference whether couples book me as their DJ or not.  I honestly wish all couples the very best, and I hope whoever DJs gives them the weddings of their dreams.  

But as a small business owner, sending out information and contracts takes real time and effort. It is a part of the business, and I genuinely enjoy talking with prospective clients. If I send a message to follow up with you, please reply with something. I do not mind at all if couples change their minds and decide to hire other DJs. I understand. Really, I do. 

If you are reading this blog, and if you are currently planning an event, please always send a reply. If you tell your vendors, "Thank you for your information; we'll look it over and get back with you once we make a decision," then please follow through. It is okay for clients to send a quick message that reads: "Thank you for all of your help, but we've decided to go with a different DJ." We will not be mean or rude when you tell us this; rather, we will be grateful that you were thoughtful enough to tell us.  Reputable and seasoned wedding vendors are understanding, and we do not hold grudges. We do not burn bridges. If we did, we would not be in business for very long. 

Here is the issue: when you have suggested or implied that you want me to DJ for you, I typically turn other clients away when they ask about your date—a date I believe I have already secured—and that is when things turn sour. Some couples never get back to me—they ghost me—and I soon realize I have lost business by turning others away.

Please send your wedding vendors messages back even if it is to say that you need more time to think it over or that you went with someone else. Sometimes prospective clients assure us that they will book with us, and then, we never hear back again. It has happened to me more than two dozen times this wedding season. 

Please know this blog entry is not about any specific people whatsoever. I am just posting this as a friendly reminder that honest communication goes a long way. Everyone should know that it is okay if I am not the best fit for their weddings or their parties. I have been doing this long enough to know that my weekends will be booked eventually, but that does not make ghosting any less frustrating. Please just communicate—with me and all wedding vendors. It is the courteous and respectful thing to do. And it means more to us than you know. 

WHEN CLIENTS BECOME FRIENDS

September 30, 2024

Today I was asked by the mother of a bride-to-be if I could give her a couple of references. I gave her ten. 

I put out feelers on social media, asking if any of the couples for whom I have DJed would allow me to give their names and numbers as references. I was immediately dinged by ten former clients with a resounding yes. So I shared all ten. And then, sixteen more responded. Then another twenty-two. Brides and grooms continue to respond even as I write this entry. In total, sixty-three couples have answered so far. At moments like these, I feel such a rush of emotion. It is like a giant Neapolitan scoop of flattery, humility, and joy. 

The couples I DJ for are not "another paycheck." I often wonder how many wedding vendors think of their clients in this way. I would like to believe that most do not because I can't fathom how any vendor can remain detached, distant, and impersonal with a newlywed couple who has invited him or her to take part in the biggest day of their lives.  I treat every couple like old friends, and in the course of planning and collaborating, something magical always happens by the time we reach the wedding day—we have become friends. 

Some DJs tell me it is unprofessional to have relationships with clients. I disagree. The friendships I forge with clients reignites my passion for DJing. I perform better for them because I care about them. I invest in meaningful conversation, and I work closely with my couples to give them the wedding days of their dreams. Along the way, I find inspiration from them, and that leads to admiration. By the time they say "I Do,"  I am celebrating with them. And the feeling, from all that I can tell, is mutual. How else can I explain why so many couples become repeat customers? How else can I explain why couples continue to respond yes to my request for references as I continue to write this entry? 

My relationships with the couples I DJ for mean everything to me, and I like to think it shows in everything I do. This was what led me to become a wedding officiant! And would you believe that I regularly check in with my couples long after my work is done? I keep in touch with the couples I DJed for, some dating as far back as as 20 years or more. 

I am so thankful for all of the extraordinary couples that have entered my life. I am blessed to have worked with every one of them. I believe I am actually indebted to them for allowing me the opportunity to be their DJ. And as I have said before, I am unapologetically a true romantic. My investment in their marriage extends well beyond last call at the bar. My investment means that I continue rooting for them, and it is important to me that they all have long lifetimes of love, laughter, and happiness.

This is why, when I ask for references, so many couples are there to support me. In the time it has taken me to write this entry, another thirty-one couples have responded yes, bringing my total to ninety-four couples in under fifteen minutes. I am a very lucky individual, indeed. 

Oh, and what became of the mother of the bride-to-be? Well, she and her daughter decided to go with someone else. They found a "cheaper" DJ, and that is perfectly fine. I completely understand the challenges of staying within your budget. I am genuinely happy they found someone at a lower price. I want what's best for all brides, and sometimes, what's best isn't me. They did, however, tell my that my references were fantastic. Of course they were. We are friends, after all.

I hope come wedding day, the DJ gives this couple the wedding of their dreams. I want every wedding to be magical, even if I am not the lucky one to give them that happily ever after. I did give them some friendly advice, though. I told them for their safety and protection, they need to make sure that whoever they choose to DJ provides a legal contract, is insured, has positive reviews, shares videos of his or her performance, and has at least two or three years' experience. "Cheaper" DJs are always a gamble. As with all things in life, you get what you pay for. My basic wedding package is already lower than my competitors at $950. I will always try to have one budget-friendly package under $1K because all brides deserve their fairy tale wedding no matter their budgets. So when I am told by couples they have found someone "cheaper," I can't help but worry about them. A reputable and seasoned DJ rarely costs less than me. 

I thanked them for talking with me and for considering me as an option for their wedding day. There are no hard feelings. There are never hard feelings, and I never burn bridges. Patience is key. My next couple will book shortly, and when they do, they will be my next new friends.  

5 REASONS WHY YOU NEED A DJ FOR YOUR HOLIDAY PARTY

September 29, 2024

As everybody already knows, the best part of the holiday season is holiday parties! Whether you are heading to a friend's house or your office holiday event, the mere mention of the word "holiday" implies celebration. The holidays are a time to appreciate close friends, honor favorite colleagues, sample seasonal recipes, imbibe themed cocktails, decorate bare walls, and encourage romance with thoughtfully placed  mistletoe. But if you really want to generate holiday spirit, music is a must. A skillfully curated soundtrack always encourages celebration. and holiday parties benefit from playing songs that remain shelved the eleven other months of the year. That is why having a DJ is such an important piece of the puzzle when planning a successful holiday bash. Below are the top five reasons why you should hire a DJ for your holiday party. 

1. A DJ Brings People Together

Music possesses a remarkable ability to evoke emotions and create a positive atmosphere. It has a profound impact on our moods, influencing our thoughts, feelings, and behavior. When music is present at social gatherings, it acts as a universal language that transcends barriers, unites celebrants, and forges connections. It has the power to break the ice and encourage social interaction, enabling individuals to bond and form lasting memories. Whether it’s a spontaneous dance floor or a community sing-along, music has an enchanting ability to unite people and create shared experiences. 

2. A DJ Creates a Party Atmosphere

One of the key roles of music at social gatherings and celebrations is setting the tone and creating the desired ambiance. The choice of music genres and styles can greatly influence the atmosphere of an event. Soft, melodic tunes may create a calm and intimate setting, while upbeat and energetic rhythms can infuse a party with liveliness and excitement. Moreover, a DJ takes every celebration to the next level. The opportunity to request songs and the DJ's ability to place those requests in an appropriate playlist adds an element of spontaneity, elevating the overall experience and creating an unforgettable event. 

3. A DJ Encourages Inclusivity

Music serves as a reflection of cultural traditions and heritage. Different regions and communities have their own unique musical styles, instruments, and dances that are deeply rooted in their history and identity. Celebrations provide an ideal platform to showcase and celebrate this diversity. By incorporating traditional music into social gatherings, we not only pay homage to our cultural roots but also promote inclusivity and understanding among people from various backgrounds. Music becomes a powerful medium for cultural exchange, fostering appreciation and respect for different holiday traditions. 

4. A DJ Is the Best Economical Choice 

You may be thinking to yourself, how is hiring a DJ the economical choice when compared to playing a Spotify playlist. Sure, the playlist is cheaper, but will it actually achieve your goal of filling your dance floor all night? Doubtful.  You could hire a band, but that would cost more. And what if you are throwing a more intimate party? Will a band even fit comfortably in your space? A skilled DJ will read the room, finding the right mix to get everyone on his or her feet, and he or she can set up in almost any space.

5. A DJ Can Also MC Fun Holiday Games or Host Karaoke

When your guests need a break from fist pumping and line dancing, games are a great way to take a break from the cardio workout that is the dance floor, and there is no better person to host a game than your DJ. Whether it is trivia, bingo, "name that tune," or one of the many other countless games that can be played, your DJ will continue to entertain when music subsides. Alternatively, if you really want to have a good time, karaoke is the way to go! A seasoned DJ can keep the party flowing so that your evening feels like a seamless holiday celebration.

A DJ always brings the party because music is celebratory by design. Music makes all things better. It enriches the party and keeps your guests planted on the dance floor all night long.  After all, we do not dance in order to get somewhere. We dance around and around. Music doesn’t come to an end when its purpose is accomplished. It has no purpose, strictly speaking. It is the playful unfolding of a meaning that is there in each of its movements, in every theme, every passage: a celebration of meaning. Its ability to evoke emotions, foster social interaction, and create a sense of unity makes it an invaluable asset in bringing people together. Whether through its historical significance, psychological impact, or cultural expression, music enriches our lives and enhances the collective human experience. This holiday season, be sure to hire a DJ. Appreciate and utilize the power of music at this joyful time of year by allowing your guests to celebrate the enduring role music plays in their lives: spreading joy, connecting hearts, and creating cherished memories that last a lifetime. 

I am now booking holiday parties for December 2024!

THE BEST OPTION?

September 22, 2024

I was recently asked by a prospective client why I was the best option to DJ his wedding. The truth is, I am never sure that I am the best option, but I always know that I am an excellent option.

For one thing, I meet you in person. Always. And I have fair pricing. I have to cover my expenses which continue to go up while remaining competitive with others in my field, but there are no hidden fees, and I try to keep my prices as low as I can because I believe EVERY bride deserves her fairy tale wedding no matter what her budget may be.

I have 25+ years experience, and I have DJed hundreds of weddings. I can provide references, reviews,  testimonials, videos, and photos if requested.  Unlike many DJs, I *listen* to my couples and I defer to them on all things. And I never rush them into making a decision they are not ready to make. I believe that rushing couples to book is unprofessional and disrespectful. I always want my couples to think carefully and to be sure that I am the right fit for their wedding expectations. It builds trust and creates a strong foundation for the collaboration we will share as we plan and prepare for what will be the most important days of their lives.

That said, I am always ready when my couples are, and I spend many long days pre-planning and preparing for every wedding I DJ. I am professional and flexible, and I am an extraordinary emcee. I use the very best equipment, so the sound is always impresssive. I also continue  to invest in new add-ons that are trending in my field. And I ALWAYS put the bride first. And, of course, I am fully insured and licensed by and registered with the State of Ohio.

When couples approach me, they see me for who I am. They know what they are getting, and if our personalities "click"—and they almost always do—it helps to put their minds at ease. They know I am the right choice for their weddings because they know exactly what I am going to offer them. It usually takes just one brief conversation. Then, they breathe a sigh of relief. When a couple is in the thick of planning a wedding, they are usually very overwhelmed. My sole purpose is to let them relax. I want them to look forward to their receptions, not stress about them. And as for the day of the wedding...well, weddings are tricky affairs. You don't want to hear this, but something ALWAYS goes wrong. My job as your DJ is to try and make sure you never know that it has.

Many of the couples I have DJed for have become good friends, and even more of them have become repeat clients. I am honest and dependable, and I know how to read a room and fill a dance floor.  The music and entertainment I provide is personalized. No two weddings are ever the same, and I do not use a cookie-cutter approach. But I do every wedding my way—which just happens to be YOUR way. This is the only way I know how to do it. 

I DJ because I love the interaction, the music, and the creative challenge of giving every couple the day of their dreams.

And a truly great DJ, just for a moment, can make an entire room fall in love.  Because DJing is not about choosing a few tunes. It is about generating shared moods; it's about understanding the feelings of a group of people and directing them to a better place.  In the hands of a DJ with real music knowledge, songs create rituals of spiritual communion that can be among the most powerful events in people's lives. This is what I give my couples. Always.

Most guests will remember just two things about your wedding: the food and the music.  There is no greater thrill than helping to make sure that your wedding will be one that is always remembered.

So yes, I am VERY good at what I do, but so are many other DJs. This is why I am always so thankful and appreciative (and humbled) when a couple chooses me given the field of competition.

And, as a final aside, there is this: I am a romantic. And while I DJ all types of events, weddings are my specialty for this reason.

The truth is, I care about the couples I DJ for. They aren't nameless strangers, they are so much more. I treat every couple as I would my closest friends. They deserve to be treated as well as possible. They have, after all, chosen me to play a part in what are the most important days of their lives. I want my grooms to be happy. I want my brides to be happier. And in the years that follow, when my couples look back on their wedding days, I want the memories they share of those days to cause them to fall in love all over again.

That is why I am an excellent option. Does it make me the best at what I do? Who knows. I don't need to be "the best". I don't need accolades or awards. I only need to be the best option for the couples who hire me. And I make damn sure that I am. Always.

INTRODUCING MY BLOG

September 18, 2024

I have decided to begin blogging about my work as a DJ. There are so many stories to tell! I often tell my clients that someday I will write a book. I also tell them it will be a best seller—this is not an exaggeration. The things I have seen and heard when DJing are the stuff of legend.  In time, I will share many of them here on my blog. Hell, I plan to share just about everything on my blog, and I hope you will join me as I begin this journey. If you do choose to follow my ramblings and musings, you will learn all about me and what I do...that is, if I stick to it. I often have the bad habit of not completing the things I begin. Not because I lack discipline, but because I lack time. Let me explain.

On the weekends, I am owner and operator of a mobile DJ business named Mostov DJ Services, LLC. It is not uncommon for me to sometimes DJ three events in one weekend. In the summer months, that is no problem as I then have five days to recover from the stress on my body and my lack of sleep before I do it again. But the real difficulty comes when school is in session. From late August to the end of May, I am a high school teacher during the week. It is during the school year that DJing can become overwhelming. There are some Saturday events when I go to sleep for the night on Sunday morning at the same time I wake up to teach on Monday morning. My sleep schedule is often ridiculous; I average just three or four hours of sleep each night when teaching. The beginning of the school year is most difficult. The end of the year, not so much. At the start of the school year, I have a year of instruction to figure out and 150 new students whose names I do not know who I must foster relationships with and somehow reach academically and emotionally. At the end of the year, the work is done, and we often coast to the end on autopilot. 

I am sleep deprived most of the school year, but it is worth it because I love what I do. This is best evidenced by the numbers. I have been DJing for 27 years, and I have DJed over 600 weddings! And, in all honesty, I would not trade the experience for anything in the world. I have met so many extraordinary people—many of whom have become good friends—and even more have become repeat clients. I have also visited so many incredible places! I live in northeast Ohio, but I travel the entire state of Ohio to DJ. I have been blessed with visiting many cities, towns, and villages I would otherwise never know or see. The experiences I have had make DJing more rewarding than I can put into words. 

In years past, I have been a radio DJ and a club DJ, but today, I am strictly a mobile DJ, and weddings make up most of my events. When I began doing this, it was a side hustle. I was really just a hobbyist with a passion for music. As the years passed, though, the events increased. Referrals filled most of my Saturdays during wedding season, and the money was good. Eventually, my calendar filled so quickly and so completely that I realized I had to form my LLC to protect myself. Fast forward to today, and my side hustle has somehow become a booming business model. It seems funny to me when I remember how I started years ago. I have come so far!  But I now find that my free time is spent bookkeeping, dry cleaning, and advertising. The game has changed, and I am still learning the rules as I play the game. 

This blog will share my adventures as I travel the state from one event to the next, and I do intend to blog regularly. We will see how it goes.