Everyone must agree that music plays an essential role on the Wedding Day, from the Bride's procession up the aisle to the last crowd-pleaser of the night.
If you tried to imagine a Bride walking up the aisle to silence, that becomes abundantly clear!
Music is that magical component that heightens the emotions, soundtracks memories and helps draw everyone together on the big day. Sometimes people (even musicians!) can have misconceptions about what works and what doesn't.
So let's tackle some of the common myths around Irish wedding bands music and help you make informed song choices with our assistance - gleaned from the 2000+ weddings The Best Men have performed at.
Myth No. 1: Old People Won't Dance To Modern Songs
Occasionally, couples will express concerns about certain styles of music - the younger element not dancing to old songs, the older contingent not dancing to modern stuff.
After 20 years, I can safely say that a mix of styles, songs ordered in specific ways, performed with conviction and expertise, is the formula that works best.
Young people will dance to music from the 1960s, when it is familiar, upbeat and played with energy. Take for example "I'm A Believer", which had a late boost when it appeared in the rewatchable movie Shrek. Equally so, I have watched countless older guests dancing to our version of "Levels" by Avicii. The band should hit at least some examples of various styles - include 90s dance for the energy, jives for folks who like country music. Everyone should agree that they had a ball at the wedding and that is how to achieve that musically.
PRO TIP from THE BEST MEN: For weddings, hire a band that can do every style well - it's not just songs, but how the band performs that makes a difference.
Myth No. 2: You Have To Have A Slow Song For Your First Dance
Slow dances can be beautiful and intimate, but if that’s not your style, go for what makes you feel good! I have seen couples break out hip-hop moves, waltz to showstoppers from musicals, do a choreographed routine to September.
If you are feeling a little nervous, ask the band to call the guests on to the floor very soon after the song starts, so the photographer gets a couple of shots of just the happy couple, but you are not left on your own too long.
If you have a choreographed routine, I would suggest having the song played from Spotify, as opposed to the band playing it live - it's safer if you are used to all the subtle, little cues and the original vocal in the song.
PRO TIP from THE BEST MEN: When the band are setting up, ask a groomsman or bridesmaid to round up the top wedding party members for the first dance, so when you're ready, they're ready too.
Myth No. 3: A Small Venue Means You Can't Have A Live Band
If a couple is having their wedding reception in a smaller room, they might think that live music won't be an option for them. However, we have played many small venues over the years, with no issue. If the space is tight, we use a different, more streamlined sound system to monitor volumes. The drummer can use lower volume cymbals (called vented cymbals). We don't use individual large amps for each musician, as was commonly seen in the past. So everything can be controlled and we can keep a small footprint - and you can have your live music.
PRO TIP from THE BEST MEN: The band don't really need a stage. In fact, sometimes having the band at the same level as the guests dancing can make the vibe more convivial, a sense that 'we're all together here'.
Written by Jonathan from The Best Men Wedding Band. We're the experts in crowd-pleasing tunes, dance-floor magic, and creating the perfect musical backdrop for your special day.
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