BillFitzmaurice.info

Can any of you DJs give me some advice on picking music for a river float event? We need music that won't really offend, but be FUN. We want everyone to hear happy, upbeat summertime music. If anyone wants to share a list of music they would play, I would be very grateful. I'm thinking music like Kid Rock - All Summer Long, 5 O'clock Somewhere, Margaritaville, etc. I am not looking for the most technical music, nor the slowest. Some dance, rock, country, etc.

This morning has been spent going through my music files picking music I like, but it has such a huge type of variety (Sum 41 to Rhianna to Ace of Base to Roy Orbison) that I am afraid it will not flow well. We won't have a DJ per se, just a phone or 2 loaded with music.

Please, any help from you guys?

Spotify has some great playlists available; I just did a search there and came up with some good results. Google it too. I do that all the time at gigs. Also, when I do events, I try to get the little kids dancing because it's usually easy and everybody loves to watch them. Don't go overboard (no pun intended) with fast stuff...slow is vital IMO.

First that comes to mind for me would be any Jimmy Buffet, Beach boys, reggae, good county (Bluegrass IMO; I like Alabama alot; and only current contry top 40 that you are obliged to do). Classic rock, shag (beach) music. Honestly, I'd at least try some latin just to see what happens. Some of the best parties I've done have been unexpectedly latin. I like to play something for everyone to enjoy, but especially the 50+ age group. In my experience that group appreciates it alot more and let you know. Younger people not so much.

Also, be mindful of your volume and watch the guests. People appreciate being able to talk and visit without shouting. Not sure of your rig but put your tops as high as practical. I've have mind on stands so the bottom of the cab is just over my head.

Know this one? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ay29hJlfxWI Surprisingly I just ran across it last night for the first time; loved it. May be selective about where I play it.

Thank you, Don. I will check out Spotify. The listeners will be floating on their own tubes, rafts, boats, etc. I am not sure what to expect for demographics of the listeners, but expect people relaxing, and lots of drinking! I'm running a setup much like yours: 2-Otop12s, 2 double 10" loaded T30s @ 25" wide (should a little more output than 2 single Lab 12 loaded t30s), Driverack Pa+, QSC USA400 for tops, and a new Peavey IPR2 3000 for subs. Subs will be side by side in the middle of the raft with Otops sitting on them (30" above raft floor).