Band or DJ? Why You Might Want Both — And How to Make It Work Beautifully

It's Not Either/Or — It's Why Not Both?
Live bands are brilliant. They bring energy, presence, and that unmistakable "we're really doing this!" feeling.

But here's something most couples don't realise: just because you've booked a fantastic band doesn't mean you don't need a DJ.

In fact, some of the best weddings I've worked on had both. The band did what they do best — and I filled in the gaps, brought contrast, and kept the momentum going long after the final cymbal crash.

Let's unpack why this combo works — and how to avoid the common pitfalls.

The DJ That Comes With the Band? Read the Small Print…

Many bands will say, "We provide a DJ as part of the package." Sounds convenient, right?

The reality?
More often than not, what they actually mean is: we'll put a Spotify playlist on during our breaks.

Here's why that's a problem:

• It's not tailored to your crowd
• There's no one reading the room or adjusting to the vibe
• If energy dips, no one's steering it back
• And let's be honest — guests can tell when no one's driving the music

It's not malicious — it's just not their specialty. They're brilliant musicians, not event strategists.

What a Professional DJ Adds That a Band Can't

Live bands have their magic. But there are things a DJ brings to the table that a band simply can't:

• Total flexibility — from golden oldies to house anthems, instantly
• Control of energy — not just a setlist, but a flow that adapts in real time
• Announcements, mic work, and hosting — all with clarity and charm
• Seamless transitions — no awkward gaps between songs or sets
• Lighting, sound, and backup tech — especially handy when venues don't quite deliver

It's not about outshining the band. It's about amplifying the whole experience.

Common Pairings That Work Beautifully

Here are some real examples where the "both" approach created a perfect balance:

• A 60s–80s Hits Band + Modern DJ Set
  The band finished on a high with Dancing in the Dark. I picked up straight after with 90s R&B and chart-topping house — the dancefloor did not empty.
• Indie Wedding Band + Genre-Jumping DJ
  Not everyone loves indie. So after the band wrapped up with Arctic Monkeys and The Killers, I segued into disco, garage, and Afrobeats — keeping everyone happy.
• Acoustic Duo + Full Evening DJ
  Live music during the ceremony and drinks reception. Then I took over for dinner, speeches, and a full party set — creating one continuous arc from start to finish.

Avoid the Energy Dips — And the Post-Band Fizzle

Here's the hidden danger with bands: the gaps — and what happens after they finish.

Most bands will do two 45-minute sets. Typically:

• First set: around 8:00–8:45pm
• Second set: maybe 9:10–9:55pm

In between, they'll often pop on a Spotify playlist for 15–20 minutes. That bit's expected.

But after the second set — when the dancefloor is at its peak, with guests buzzing and momentum soaring — they... press play on a playlist.

No one guiding the energy. No one adapting to the crowd. Just a soulless queue of songs in the wrong key, at the wrong tempo, in the wrong order.

That's when you need a DJ most.
To catch the baton and run with it — keeping the celebration alive until the final song of the night.

And No, It's Not Just "An Hour or Two"

Here's another thing I hear quite a bit:

"You'll only need to play for an hour or two — between or after the band."

And while I understand the logic, it misses the bigger picture.

Even if I'm only playing for 90 minutes, I'm still:

• Arriving hours early to set up
• Coordinating with the band and venue
• Providing professional sound, lighting, and back-up
• Staying until the end of the night
• Ready to step in if the band's gear or timing falters

So no — a professional DJ won't halve their fee just because they're not playing all night. Because they are working all night — and their role is critical to the flow of the whole evening.

It's not about how many songs. It's about how they land.

Final Thought: This Isn't About Competition — It's About Collaboration

I've worked alongside dozens of brilliant bands. Not once has it felt like a clash. Why? Because we're on the same team — both there to make your celebration feel amazing.

If you're booking a band, brilliant. But if you want the energy to last all night, the vibe to shift with your crowd, and a professional who can handle the in-betweens with style — consider bringing a DJ in as well.

You really can have the best of both worlds. And when you do — it's magic.