What to Ask Before Hiring DJs That Customize Playlists
Finding the right entertainment for your event is more than just booking someone with speakers. The music sets the mood, drives the energy, and creates memories. Most DJs stick to ‘Top 40’ hits, but those who customize playlists make your event truly unique.
But how do you know if they can truly deliver a personalized experience? Reach out to top DJ Will Gill for a corporate event experience tailored to your needs and guaranteed to impress. He has earned over 2,000 five-star reviews, highlighting his outstanding reputation.
Watch Will Gill showcase his talent at various events in the clip below.
Here is a guide on what to ask before signing a contract to ensure your DJ can tailor the soundtrack perfectly to your vision.
1. “How Do You Handle the Playlist Customization Process?”
This is the most critical question. You want to understand their workflow. A DJ who truly customizes won’t just ask for a few songs you like; they will want to know the “vibe” you are aiming for.
Look for answers that include:
- A consultation meeting to discuss musical tastes.
- Questionnaires or online portals where you can build “Must Play” and “Do Not Play” lists.
- A willingness to accept specific versions of songs (e.g., a live recording vs. a radio edit).
If they’re vague or resist direction, they likely stick to the same setlist every weekend.
2. “How Do You Read a Crowd vs. Sticking to the Plan?”
Customization is great, but flexibility is key. A rigid playlist can kill a party if the guests aren’t responding to it. You need a professional who respects your requests but also knows how to pivot if the dance floor clears out.
Ask them how they balance your specific requests with the live energy of the room. The best DJs prioritize your ‘Must Plays’ and use their expertise to keep the energy alive with fitting tracks. They should be able to weave your customized choices into a flow that works for the specific audience in front of them.
DJs who customize playlists often have higher technical skills than those who just hit “play” on a pre-made mix. Ask them about how they mix genres. If you want a playlist that jumps from 90s Hip Hop to Country to EDM, you need a DJ who can make those transitions smooth, not jarring.
Ask for a sample mix or a description of how they would bridge two very different genres you love. Their ability to creatively blend unmatched styles is a strong indicator of their talent.
4. “What Is Your Policy on Guest Requests?”
This is often where the “custom” part gets tricky. If you have spent weeks curating a specific sound, you might not want guests requesting unrelated songs.
Clarify how they handle this:
- Strict Adherence: Do they politely decline requests that don’t fit your vibe?
- Vetting: Do they filter requests and only play ones that match your approved genres?
- Open Floor: Do they take any requests regardless of your list?
Ensure their policy aligns with how much control you want over the music during the actual event.
5. “Do You Have Experience with My Specific Genres?”
Just because a DJ customizes playlists doesn’t mean they are experts in every genre. If you want a night full of Afrobeat, K-Pop, or obscure Indie Rock, you need to verify they actually know the music. Ask them to name a few artists they would play for your specific preferred genres. If they can only name popular artists, they might lack the music library to match your unique tastes.