The DJ vs. Band Argument – Part 2

For many years I have hired the services of the dancers of Cutting Edge Entertainment.  I have always been impressed with their professionalism and energy.  The dancers come completely prepared and ready to party.  My band enjoys working with them, and the parties are always high energy and thus, very successful.   I have developed a great working relationship with Craig Sumsky, and lately have enjoyed reading his blog (cuttingedgedjs.com/blog/).

 

That being said, one blog, entitled “The DJ vs. Band Argument”, jumped to my attention.  Craig, I have a bone to pick.

 

Rather than debating point for point the article, I will say this.  A great DJ is far better than a bad band, and a great band is far better than a bad DJ.

 

It takes more than talented musicians and singers to make a great band.  Many more factors are important. 

 

-          Years of experience will not only build a tremendous repertoire, but also enable the bandleader the ability to read and adapt to the flow of the party.

-           Continuous music is a must.  If you need a break, beam yourself back 20 years, and play in the clubs (don’t forget your bartenders and waitresses – they’re working hard for you).

-          Interaction with the crowd is important, but a wedding or Bar Mitzvah is not the place to try out your new act for Last Comic Standing.  A good rule of thumb:  If you think you’re funny . . . you’re NOT!

-          Singers should emulate the inflection and phrasing of the original artist.  This is not a jazz concert.

 

So . . . When you have a band that meets these standards, a DJ doesn’t have a chance.  The dynamics of live drums and horns, the connection with a great singer, a rocking guitar solo – simply can’t be matched.

 

The music business is changing at an amazing pace.  As a bandleader, I must adapt or die.  The future will be the integration of all sources – live music, audio, video – as well as lighting and performance.  Who knows, there may come a day when Craig and I share a stage and finally end the DJ vs. Band Argument. 

 

Let’s have both!

 

Wayne Gustafson

Bandleader of The Untouchables

Comments

[Craig @ Cutting Edge Entertainment]

Brilliant blog Wayne, and touche'. Please do keep in mind that the post you speak of on my blog was authored by a former Bat Mitzvah girl, who was simply stating her personal opinion based on her own experience.

Live bands are great, particularly when we're talking about a band like yours that produces 'real' music, not a pre-fabricated karaoke track band like some larger organizations in Philadelphia put out. Unfortunately, the market is flooded with their ilk and the consumer continues to confuse them for quality, repeatedly paying much more then they are worth.

One day - perhaps - we will share the stage. I would highly recommend your band - The Untouchables - as one of the Philly regions top notch bands, and reasonably (and realistically) priced.

Until then, I will continue to book DJs, and your Untouchables will continue to rock audiences.

http://www.cuttingedgedjs.com

[Kiana]

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