Live Music vs. a DJ

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 Band vs DJ articles. You've read them  before. We will attempt to provide a "fair & balanced" view of the  band vs DJ debate and educate you as to the benefits of hiring a LIVE  BAND. While some points we cover might not be true for all bands, we  know that Grand Central Station in particular holds true to all of the  points we make here.

 Variety of Music - Some DJs advertise they have over 1000 songs in their library.
Grand Central Station knows well over 1000 songs, however when we  perform at a standard 4 hour event we normally play between 50 to 65  songs. Also, we always communicate with the client before hand to see if  there are special songs or style of songs they would like played so we  are prepared in advance for any special requests. 

 Bands are too Expensive -  Most reputable DJs charge between $2000.00 - $5000.00, One Person!!!  If budget  is paramount, then yes a DJ is probably a good place to cut some  costs.However, remember it is the personality of your entertainment that  is equally important. Don't cut the budget so much that you end up with  someone that knows nothing of weddings or parties and can't dress  appropriately, and tells off color jokes.
Remember this, musicians love to perform. People like to be entertained  and feel the emotion of the musicians. Provide entertainment for your  guests, not someone who is going to lead a conga line. (that's cheesy). 

 Our reception is in a small room, and a band won't be quiet enough - Every  Bridal Show we have showcased at has had at least one DJ that thinks  their music needs to be heard throughout the entire room. DJs typically  play at one volume with out any dynamics to the music. With the right  technology and/or the right musicians, there is no reasonable a band can't  play at a level that is perfectly acceptable to everyone. The point is is that a good band with the right equipment can play just  as quietly as a DJ and still sound good (if not better). 

 A DJ is more reliable in that there is only one person to worry about instead band of 6 + musicians- Illness,  traffic jams, family emergencies, auto accidents... these things happen  to everyone DJs are not immune to them any more than bands.However, if a  DJ gets caught in traffic the music definitely won't start until he  arrives. With a band you have several members coming, yes someone may  get hung up in traffic but at least the other band members can get the  wedding or event started. Every professional band has backup players  that can step in should an emergency occur.

  The Wow Factor - Live musicians  performing on stage are going to have a more exciting, interesting,and  dynamic impact than a DJ .   You can feel the emotion of the  vocalist, you can see it in his or her face, you can hear it in their  voices. A good band will be able to read a crowd as well as a DJ to see  what music is being well received. However, it's the "wow factor" of  having dynamic interactive, live musicians that is instrumental in  making for a truly memorable party.