Versatility isn’t the only distinction between bands and DJ services. “Our DJ’s don’t take breaks, so they really keep the pace of the event going.” But no two DJ’s are alike. “You’ll see a lot of ads from DJ’s who say they’re fun and they play great music, but the real difference between DJ’s is their analytical skill.
“The sound on the left side might need to be lower because there might be older people there. You might want to turn it up on the right side because the bride wants to hear a song. There are intangibles that, when handled properly, can enhance the whole experience. The DJ needs to be able to feel the pulse of the party.”
David does a lot of planning with the couple beforehand. “Some couples are adamant that the party’s for them. They want me to stick to their music. Others want to take care of the whole group and take requests.
“Usually at the beginning we’ll play some slower songs for the older crowd.” David recently did a wedding where the bride had a lot of her mother’s friends there, and that’s who she wanted him to concentrate on. “I played a lot of standards. But it depends on how things progress. No party is the same.”
To ensure spontaneity, Expressway’s DJ’s bring their entire catalogue. “You never know when requests for different musical genres will occur. Preparation is the key.”
He finds couples often don’t want the campy songs, like ‘Celebration.’ “But people still like to hear music they recognize. I try to find music with different beats that change it up a bit.”
Expressway Music can provide DJ services for the ceremony and the reception. They are also able to provide piano players, jazz combos and chamber music.
“We’ve worked with these musicians for a long time,” he says. “They are experienced and knowledgeable and love what they do.”
David got into the music business originally as a songwriter, and formed Expressway Music in 1992. “Each Expressway musician relishes the opportunity to set the tone for each bride’s special day.
“My whole focus is providing the atmosphere and energy that the couple is looking for. I really care about pleasing them, because it’s such an important moment in their life. If I’ve done that, and they say it was just how they wanted it, I’m very gratified.”
Expressway Music, Inc.
212.953.9367
www.expresswaymusic.com
