Curtis Allen

As a DJ, I love taking requests. But every DJ knows the scenario: it’s the end of the night, the dance floor is winding down, and just as I’m about to play the last song, someone rushes over with a last-minute song request. You’ve had the entire event—4 or 5 hours, sometimes more—to ask for your song, but now we’re just minutes from the finish and you’re hoping to squeeze it in!

In this post, I’ll explain why last-minute song requests can be challenging and how timing, event flow, and venue restrictions all play a role in whether or not I can accommodate them.

Why Last-Minute Requests Are Hard to Fit In

By the end of the night, I’ve carefully curated the vibe over several hours and planned a set that brings the energy to a satisfying close. Here’s why squeezing in a song at the last moment can be tough:

1. The Set is Already Wrapped Up:
   As the night draws to an end, I’m usually finishing with a few specific tracks that are designed to bring down the energy gradually and create a memorable ending. Adding a last-minute request, especially if it doesn’t match the tone I’m winding down with, can disrupt that flow.
2. Respecting the Couple’s Wishes at Weddings:
   At weddings, the last song is often one that holds special meaning for the couple. It’s the final moment they’ve carefully chosen to end their big day. Throwing in a random last-minute request during this time not only disrupts the vibe, but it can also take away from what the couple has envisioned for their grand finale.
3. Venue Licensing and Curfew:
   Many venues, particularly those near residential areas, have strict licensing rules that dictate when the music must stop. Going past the curfew, even for just “one more song,” can result in noise complaints from neighbours or even put the venue at risk of fines or shutdown. As a DJ, I respect these rules to ensure the venue isn’t put in a difficult position.
   Sometimes, if I suspect the crowd might want an encore, I’ll wrap up a couple of minutes early to leave room for “one last song”—but only if it won’t diminish the impact of the planned final track, especially if the couple has requested a specific song to end the night.

How to Make Your Song Request Fit Into the Night

If you want to make sure your song gets played, here are a few tips to ensure it fits into the DJ’s set and doesn’t cause any last-minute stress:

1. Make Your Request Early:
   The best way to guarantee your request gets played is to ask for it early in the evening. This gives the DJ time to work it into the set naturally, rather than scrambling to fit it in at the last moment.
2. Consider the Flow:
   The final tracks of the night are usually selected to match the mood as the event winds down. If your request is high-energy and the DJ is transitioning into slower, more relaxed songs, it might not fit the current tone. Be mindful of where the night is heading, and if it’s too late, consider holding onto that request for another time.
3. Understand Venue Restrictions:
   If I tell you I can’t just squeeze your request in or that I can’t play one last song, please accept and respect that and absolutely do not start insulting me because I won’t play it. I would love to keep the party going too, but all good things must come to an end.
   I’m a guest in this venue too, and I have to respect the house rules to ensure that the venue isn’t at risk of facing complaints or penalties. If I disregard them, you can bet that venue isn’t going to be recommending or booking me again, and word gets around that I’m an unprofessional DJ!
4. Be Flexible:
   Sometimes, even with the best intentions, I simply can’t fit your request in if it comes too late. Whether it’s due to venue rules, the couple’s requests, or the overall flow of the event, it’s important to trust the DJ’s judgement. I’ll always do my best to work your song in, but not at the expense of the night’s final moments.

Conclusion: Help Me Help You

While I love taking requests, last-minute song requests can be tricky—especially when we’re minutes away from the end of the night. If you really want to hear your song, be sure to request it earlier in the evening. This gives me time to work it into the set without disrupting the flow, respecting venue restrictions, or affecting any planned final moments. You’re much more likely to hear your request this way!

Planning an event and want to make sure the music is perfect from start to finish? Get in touch with me to discuss how we can create the perfect playlist for your big day or celebration. 🎧