Curtis Allen

As a DJ, one of the most common requests I hear is “Can you play something I can dance to?” It sounds simple enough, right? But this seemingly innocent phrase can actually present quite a challenge. In this blog post, I’ll break down why DJ song requests like this can be tricky, and how guests can make requests that ensure the music keeps flowing and the energy on the dance floor stays high.

What Does “Something I Can Dance To” Actually Mean?

On the surface, “Play something I can dance to” feels like a straightforward request. The reality? Everyone has a different idea of what a great dance song is. For some, it’s a high-energy pop anthem, while for others, it’s a slow jam or a throwback rock track.

Here’s the catch: as a DJ, I’m already trying to play music that keeps people dancing. It’s literally my job to create a setlist that appeals to a room full of people with different tastes and energy levels. The challenge with vague DJ song requests like this is that it’s hard to pinpoint what you personally want to dance to, and more importantly, how that fits with the vibe of the entire event.

Reading the Room is Key

A good DJ is constantly reading the room, balancing the energy and tempo of the night. When someone asks for “something I can dance to,” it often feels like they’re asking me to drop everything and cater to their specific taste, regardless of what’s working for the rest of the crowd.

If the current song doesn’t happen to be your jam, hang tight—chances are, something you love is just around the corner. DJs create their sets with the goal of variety, ensuring that there’s a little something for everyone over the course of the night. But jumping in with a vague request can interrupt that flow and leave the rest of the crowd wondering what’s going on.

The James Brown Incident: When the Perfect Song Still Isn’t Enough

One of my favorite stories comes from a time when I was spinning a well-attended event. The dance floor was packed, and I was playing none other than James Brown—one of the greatest dance artists of all time. And yet, someone came up to me and said, “Can you play something I can dance to?”

I’ll admit, I was stunned. If you can’t dance to James Brown, then maybe dancing just isn’t your thing? But seriously, that moment highlighted the issue with vague DJ song requests—the right song might already be playing, but if it doesn’t match your personal taste in that moment, it can feel like something’s missing.

How to Make the Perfect Request

To avoid miscommunication and ensure that the DJ can accommodate your request, being specific can go a long way. Here are some tips on how to make a request that fits the night:

1. Be clear: Instead of asking for “something I can dance to,” tell the DJ exactly what song, artist, or genre you’re in the mood for. Whether it’s a pop hit, a rock anthem, or something nostalgic, specificity helps the DJ understand what you’re really after.
2. Consider the vibe: DJs craft their sets based on the energy in the room. Take a moment to think about whether your request fits the current atmosphere. If it’s a high-energy moment, asking for a slow song might not be the best move. On the flip side, if things are mellow, asking for a fast-paced banger could throw off the crowd’s vibe. While all requests are considered, you’ll be more likely to hear it sooner if it’s in keeping with the current vibe.
3. Be patient: Following on from that, remember, a request is just that—a request. While I’ll do my best to work your song into the mix, it may take a little time to find the perfect moment for it and, unfortunately, it may just not happen.

Want to make a song request at your next event? The key is being specific and thoughtful with your requests! If you’re planning an event or wedding and want a DJ who knows how to keep the dance floor alive, get in touch with me today. Let’s work together to create the perfect vibe for your celebration, ensuring every guest has a blast! Contact me to discuss your event and music preferences, and let’s make it a night to remember. 🎧