Hip-hop, pop and classic rock may be America’s favorite musical genres, but indie also has a top spot in the list, with around 14% of millennials feeling that this type of music best represents their lives. Interestingly, millennials are also within the age most likely to get married (aged 24 to 29), so many may be planning their upcoming wedding. If you are one of them and you feel like indie music should play an important role at your reception, how can you do so while still catering for all musical tastes?
Hiring An Indie Band
One of the best ways to get guests of all ages excited about indie music, is to hire a live band that will have guests on their feet and dancing away until sunrise. You may have your favorite songs (and those that mean something to you and your partner should definitely play at some point in your party), but you should also include a wide array of indie tracks guests are likely to know. Some of the top-selling indie songs include There is a Light that Never Goes Out by the Smiths, Seven Nation Army by The White Stripes, and I Bet You Look Good on The Dancefloor by The White Stripes. Ask the band to play these as well as requested songs by your guests. Ask your guests to submit their requests in the weeks leading up to your big day so the band has time to get acquainted with the most requested tunes.
Creating A Meaningful Playlist
Whether or not you hire a band, you will most likely have to create a wedding reception song list. If you do hire a band, they will take much of the work off your hands, but if you choose to simply have a friend DJ the event and play your chosen songs, then take all the time you need. The playlist should have a good combination of fast (danceable), sing-along and romantic tunes. After all, this isn’t just a party; it’s a celebration of your love. Choose around five songs that mark the trajectory of your romance with your bride or groom, and play one of these after every set of four or five faster tunes. When you do play your special songs, present video footage alongside them featuring some of the best times you have had with your new spouse. This will lend the event meaning, and is something your guests will remember for a lifetime.
A Blend Of Old And New
A typical wedding features wedding guests from various generations in one big party, so make sure that nobody feels left-out. When compiling your playlist for the band or DJ, ensure that decades ranging from as far back as the 1950s and 1960s are included. From Chuck Berry to Elvis, right through to James Brown, the BeeGees and the Jackson Five, ensure that timeless bands are interspersed with some of your favorite indie musicians of all time.
When planning music for a wedding, taking guests into account is key. So, too, is including music that means something to you and your new spouse. Get guests involved by accepting requests and playing those that are most popular and interesting. Don’t forget to include a few hits from other genres so that everyone feels represented.