Live band and DJ, side by side
| Live band | DJ | |
|---|---|---|
| The feel | A show to watch: singers and musicians on stage, talking to your guests | Non-stop dancing, with songs mixed one into the next |
| Songs | The band's rehearsed set list; ask early for any special songs | Almost any track, including the newest releases, on request |
| Space | A stage area big enough for the whole lineup | A table area for the console and speakers |
| Setup | Instruments, microphones and a mixing desk; a longer sound check | Less equipment and a quicker setup |
| What drives the cost | Number of performers, hours, sound and travel | Hours, and the sound and lights setup |
| Often chosen for | Sangeet performances, receptions, mehfils, guests who love live music | After-parties, cocktail nights, guests who want to dance all night |
Choose a live band if…
- you want music people stop to watch, not only dance to;
- your guests love Bollywood classics, Sufi or ghazals sung live;
- you have the stage space and power for a full lineup.
Choose a DJ if…
- dancing is the main event and you want the latest songs;
- your venue is small, or you need a quick setup;
- you want music to change quickly with the crowd's mood.
Or have both
Many couples mix the two: a band or singer for the first part of the evening, then a DJ for dancing. A DJ with live dhol, a saxophone player or a singer on a few songs also brings energy without a full band. See DJs, dhol players and instrumentalists.
Questions that decide it
- How many guests, and how old? Who do you most want to enjoy the evening?
- Is the function a performance night or a dance night?
- How much stage space and power does your venue have?
- When must music stop at your venue? Fit the highlights in before that.
Not sure yet? Tell us about your event and we'll suggest acts of both kinds who are free on your date.