When the music is right, the dance floor fills and the aunties dance until midnight. When it is wrong, guests sit in silence and leave early. Choosing the music is one of the most important wedding decisions.
DJ
A DJ can play any song, from highlife classics to the latest Afrobeats, gospel and international hits. DJs are usually cheaper than bands, need less space and equipment, and can read the crowd and change songs quickly.
Ask to see videos of the DJ at other weddings. Check their equipment, including backup power, and ask whether they provide microphones for speeches.
Live band
A live band brings energy and presence. Highlife bands are popular at Ghanaian weddings, and live bands playing juju, highlife and Afrobeats are common at Nigerian receptions. Live music creates a sense of occasion, especially for older guests.
Bands are usually more expensive and need more space, setup time and power. Ask for recordings and videos, and confirm the number of musicians and the length of their sets.
Both
Many couples combine the two: a band for the entrance, dinner and early dancing, and a DJ for the later party. This offers variety but requires coordination between the MC, band and DJ.
Plan the music by stage
Guest arrival: soft music as people find their seats.
Grand entrance: an upbeat song chosen by the couple, often a popular Afrobeats or gospel track.
Dinner: background music that allows conversation.
First dance: a song meaningful to the couple.
Dancing: a mix for all ages: highlife and juju for parents, Afrobeats and amapiano for younger guests, and gospel for church friends.
Sound checks
Ask for a sound check before guests arrive, and make sure the MC’s microphone works in every corner of the hall. Poor sound ruins speeches and makes elders strain to hear.
Songs to avoid
Give the DJ or band a “do not play” list, including songs with explicit lyrics or anything that might offend elders or church guests.
Coordination
The MC, DJ and band should have the programme and know the cues for entrances, speeches and cake cutting.
Contracts
Put the hours, songs, equipment and fees in writing, and agree on overtime charges.
Choose music that brings the whole room together. The best receptions end with grandmothers and teenagers on the same dance floor.
