ADJA helps with Phoenix DJ’s training – never stop learning

Posted on February 22, 2012 by moyeriii

In the mobile entertainment world you can classify DJ’s into two groups; professionals and hobbyists. They both can look similar from the outside. Both have websites, dj equipment, business cards and will charge for their services, but they are not the same.

Don’t get me wrong, being a hobbiest is nothing to be ashamed of. Hobbyist normally have a love for music and being a part time dj is their way of sharing their passion. Some hobbyist may even be a good choice for your wedding, but you need to understand their limitations. I recommend reading this post to help discover what those may be, and to learn what questions you should ask a dj.

When I became a DJ in 2001 I had no idea about this division. I used to look at DJs as the guy who plays the music (the hobbyist). To some respects I was right, but I was missing the bigger picture. Actually I was missing the crucial part of the bigger picture. I was grouping all DJs into that hobbyist group and didn’t even know it.

My awakening came very quickly though. Before my first solo event I started my training. I worked under a veteran DJ named Tim Chisam. Hi showed me what I was missing, and why we had to go beyond the music in order to call ourselves professionals. He also made it clear that we always need to strive to be better or we are doomed to fall back into being a hobbyist.

I’ve taken that to heart over the years, and even after I struck out on my own I continued to look for ways to become better. I’ve gone to conferences, I’ve watched countless videos, and most recently I’ve joined the American Disc Jockey Association. Not only has this group of djs treated me warmly and with open arms, but they’ve also begun to help me understand how I can be better.

This group can quickly be the easiest way to determine what kind of DJ you’re interviewing. Everyone of the DJs I’ve met through the association has a passion for being an entertainer and strives to learn more. We’re actively seeking ways to improve what we do and exceed the expectations of our clients.

If you don’t have the time to research a ton of djs and interview each one, then start your search at adja.org first. You’ll be happy you did.

Thank you for reading, and please visit my site below to learn more about Black Tie DJ Phx.

Phoenix DJ.

Winning big at the 54th Annual Grammy Awards

Posted on February 13, 2012 by moyeriii

Winning a Grammy is a huge deal for artists and producers. Winning 5 in one night is epic and the Foo Fighters did just that. Winning 6 in a night is beyond epic and before last night Beyonce was the only woman to have done it. Adele tied that record and for good reason.

Adele has launched into the American music scene in a big way. Her album “21″ is an amazing look at her emotional roller coaster, and I’m sure something that most of us can relate to. She shows how vulnerable she can be and at the same time demonstrates her strength and compassion. Her voice is powerful and takes you on a journey that touches your soul. Tender in one moment and overwhelming in the next. Winning at the Grammys seemed inevitable.

Adele won for Album of the Year, Best Pop Vocal Album, Record of the Year, Song of the Year, Best Short Form Music Video, and Best Pop Solo Performance. ”Rolling in the Deep” and “Someone like you” were the two songs from her Album “21″ that stood out for the night. She Performed “Rolling in the Deep” live, which was the first live performance since her vocal cord surgery.

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Foo Fighters performed their hit “Walk” which they won Best Rock Performance for. They also took home Grammys for Best Rock Album (Wasting Time) and 3 others. Dave Grohl (Frontman) pointed out that the “human element of making music is what’s most important, (it’s) not about sounding perfect, but what goes on in here,” pointing to his heart.

Kanye West also took home four, and Skrillet three.

Over all it was an amazing night for Adele and so many other artists. I’m sure I’ll be bumping a lot more requests for these artists in the near future.

Thank you for reading this Phoenix DJ‘s blog.

Remembering Whitney Houston and her Music

Posted on February 13, 2012 by moyeriii

Being a Phoenix DJ, I have the distinct opportunity to hear requests every weekend. One thing is certain, Whitney gets her fair share of them. Her music can be fun or serious and Whitney had the talent (and the voice) to make you believe every performance was coming from her heart.

Here are a few of the songs that show us why Whitney will never be forgotten.

I Wanna Dance with Somebody

This song is a great dance song. It even has dance in it’s name; how could it not be great? I’ve played this at more singles dances and parties then I can remember. It just sends such an up-beat outlook on why we dance. Don’t forget the big hair in the video.

Greatest Love of All
This song was a big part of my early childhood. My sisters and I used to sit in our play room and listen to certain songs. We would belt them out as loud as possible, and we didn’t care if we sounded good or in my case not so good. This was one of those that we went for broke with. I think of that time in my life every time I here it, and I’m reminded of how important music is for all of us.

It’s Not Right but it’s Okay
Whitney was still relevant until the end. In the last few years she was releasing great music. This one was back in 2007 and she had another album with great music in 2009. She never quit doing what she loved, and I’m thankful of that.

I Will Always Love You
This may be one of the most remembered songs of her career. She belted this out will the power and grace that only Whitney can produce. Even Jennifer Hudson singing “I will Always Love You” at the Grammys was only a shadow of how Whitney shined. Dolly Parton may have written this but Whitney made it a legend.

We will miss Whitney, but her voice will live on through our speakers.

Thank you Whitney for everything you gave us.

Cortina School Jog-a-Thon

Posted on February 6, 2012 by moyeriii

Last November I was the disc jockey at an amazing back yard wedding for Kim Betancourt, which was a lot of fun. When she called me to DJ an event for her son’s school, I was thrilled.

Cortina Elementary School was putting on their annual jog-a-thon. Cortina has over 1,200 kids K-8, so I had my work cut out for me. Six hours of kids rushing the DJ booth can be all lot to take, but the students at Cortina were great. They were there to have a fun time and treated me (and my equipment) with respect. Clearly the Cortina teachers are having a positive effect on these kids.

Phoenix DJ Budd at Cortina Jog-a-Thon

Watching them compete in this fund raiser was extremely entertaining. The kindergardners were very cute as their little legs took them around and around the field. Even the older kids were having a good time.

Through out the day kids were swarming my booth but Ricky Drinkwater(PTO president’s husband) was there quizzing each kid before they could make a song request or shout out. As a new parent I really appreciated the focus on learning. Ricky also stepped in to cheer on the kids as they continued their laps. It was nice to see the teachers and school staff getting into the spirit of the event. Even the assistant principal put in six miles worth of laps.

Cortina Principal and Assistant Principal with Kim

Overall the day was a huge success and I plan on being a big part of events to come. The kids in this school are incredible and I enjoyed every minute of the jog-a-thon.

Cortina is having a carnival on April 20th of this year which should also be fun. You will see me there bumping the music and hanging out with the kids. Feel free to come by and say hi.

As always, thank you for reading and if you’re looking for a Phoenix DJ please check out Black Tie DJ PHX.

How to Interview a Wedding DJ

Posted on February 3, 2012 by moyeriii

Why you should be asking the questions

DJs are in a service profession where the first contact comes in the form of sales. They have to sell their ability (or their company’s ability) to you. This means they put their best foot forward and omit any facts that might tarnish their pitch. Don’t get me wrong, this is the same for any service provider, and the majority are good people that will bend over backwards to make your wedding special. This doesn’t change that fact that it’s your job to make sure you know exactly what you’re getting when booking your DJ. This is also your time to weed out any inexperienced DJ that should be practicing their trade under a veteran, and not at your wedding. For this reason I want to give you the tools that will help you find the great DJs in the sea of amateurs.

Qualification Questions

Are you available for my wedding?
What is your starting price and what does it include?
Am I guaranteed to have the DJ I meet with?
What insurance do you carry?

Detailed Questions

Tell me about your training/experience. (Where did they learn to DJ?, what got them started?, how long have they been a DJ?, What types of events do they DJ the most?)
Tell me about a typical wedding reception for you.
When was the last wedding you preformed at? Can I call them as a reference?
Do you bring back-up equipment? (This is a must. Equipment fails from time to time)
Is your music “radio edit’?
Do you take requests?
How early do you arrive on site?
Will you have an assistant? (this doesn’t mean an assistant makes a better DJ, but you will want to know if you are feeding the DJ(s))
What is your standard attire? (if the standard attire doesn’t fit your theme ask if they can wear something more appropriate. i.e. cowboy wear instead of a tux)

Additional info about the questions

Professionals are happy to answer any question you think of. It gives us a chance to reassure you that you are making the right choice, so ask away.

Most of these questions have a straight forward answer to them. Always ask for guarantees in writing and make sure the contract mirrors what was agreed upon. This includes what equipment they are bringing (you don’t need the exact brand, just the general terms i.e wireless handheld mic, lighting setup).

Insurance is a question that should always be looked into. Many amateur “DJs” I’ve met say they’re insured, but all they have is a home or auto policy that covers there equipment from theft or damage. True event insurance will allow for the venue to be covered for your event date. Make sure that the DJ you choose can add that venue to his policy for your wedding day. This is standard practice and a professional will not mind.

The detailed questions will help you feel out how comfortable the DJ is with preforming at a wedding. The more experienced they are the easier the answers will come. There isn’t an exact answer you should hear but you should feel comfortable after the Q&A is done. Some questions will be less important to you, but this will help get you thinking about what type of DJ you want.

I purposely omitted “Can I attend an upcoming wedding to see you DJ?”. As a DJ I do not think it’s professional to invite future brides to a wedding I’m DJing. If I’m working then I want 100% of my focus on the event I’m at, and I can’t do that if I’m trying to coordinate with a new bride at the same time. In addition to that, would you want a stranger at your wedding? This is not the feeling of every DJ so you’ll have to use your own judgement on this.

Closing thoughts and self promotion

I hope this helps with your search for a DJ. There are a lot of great people out there that want to make your wedding as special as it can be. DJs play a big part in letting your guests have a memorable time. If you ever need a Phoenix DJ I would love for you to ask me these questions.

Thanks for reading and congratulations.

How to choose music for your wedding

Posted on January 31, 2012 by moyeriii

Why music is important

Music is such a huge part of a wedding. It can say a lot about the bride and groom, and it can make a huge impact on whether your guests have fun or not.

I’ve been a DJ for over 10 years and I’ve been a music lover for far longer. Music has a way of instilling emotion into a person. It takes them on a ride and can bring a crowd running to the dance floor, or leave them misty in their chairs. So choosing music for your wedding can be a daunting task. Luckily I’ve given some advice to help get you on your way.

Background music

At different times through out the wedding and reception the music won’t be the main entertainment. Whether it’s during the cocktail hour or while guests are sitting down to dinner you’ll need to set the mood with some great music. Of course all of this will depend on your personal tastes, but your DJ will be able to assist in picking the perfect mix of the genres you select.

pre-ceremony
The pre-ceremony music is usually very relaxed and light. Nothing with to much bass or too fast a tempo. The idea is to keep your guests in a calm mood.

classical (strings are usually better than piano here)
covers done by a string quartet (some great stuff here)
love songs (can stretch across genres but most will be slower/calming)

Cocktail hour/Dinner
For the cocktail hour and dinner you have a lot of room to play with. You can mix in different tempos and themes and it won’t throw off the crowd much. Stay away from heavy bass or long quite intros and you should be set. There are some genres that work better than others.

jazz (a mixture of true Jazz like Miles Davis and some Sinatra style standards)
classic rock
contemporary jazz (Norah Jones, Michael Buble, Diana Krall)
Adult Contemporary (again stay away from big bass or extremely fast tempo)

Cake cutting
This is not a place that you sit back for an hour and let music play but a few well chosen songs are nice here. You can get creative here is you like.

Motown (Sugar Sugar, Chapel of love, build me up buttercup, How sweet it is)
Rock (pour some sugar on me, sweet emotion)
Disco (cut the cake)
Love songs

Special Dances

There are a number of special dances that you can choose to do at your wedding and reception. Your personal likes will play the biggest part for these songs.

Processional
If you’re not going with the traditional then something like “Only Time” – Enya is great. You can always go extreme and have the Bridal party dance their way down the isle. If that’s not your style then just make sure it’s a song you can walk to, and isn’t too fast of a beat.

Recessional
I like to have fun with a recessional. It can set the tone for the rest of the night. Songs like James Brown – “I feel good” or U2 – “Beautiful Day” are a lot of fun

Grand Entrance
This is another place that you can have a lot of fun with. “let’s get it started” – Black Eyed Peas, “Sexy Back” – Justin Timberlake, or going old school with “Celebration” – Kool and the gang are fun upbeat songs you can use. Alternatively you can keep it classy (L.O.V.E – Nat King Cole) or corky (Slow motion running while “Chariots of Fire” plays). You can use your imagination and just have fun.

First Dance
Most first dances are slower songs that you can sway back and forth to. If this is your style then pick a song you really enjoy or one that has special meaning for the two of you. For the more adventurous couples you may try ball room dances or even start with a slow dance and switch it up half way through to a fast and fun song. You can find a lot of video on YouTube showing just that.

Father Daughter Dance
This falls in line with the first dance. Just think of a song that works for you and your dad. The one addition that I add here is, If you are looking to cut the time down for these dances you can combine the father/daughter and mother/son dance. Usually this is done by starting with just he bride and her father and about 30 seconds in the Groom will invite his mother on to the floor. You can take it one step further and 30 seconds after that invite everyone onto the floor, starting off open dancing.

Mother Son Dance
Same as for the Father/Daughter dance, but if you give the bride’d dad a full song then give the groom’s mom a full song too. If you let your DJ know ahead of time you can always have these songs cut short, so don’t worry if you picked a song that’s 6 minutes long.

Bridal party dance
In resent years fewer brides are having a bridal party dance. Most are have a few songs that they know the bridesmaids will dance to, and want the DJ to dedicate it to them at some point in the night. If you are doing a bridal party dance then songs like “Lean on Me” are great. You can keep it just the bridal party or you can let them bring their sposes and segnificant others out too. The DJ will normally let the other guests come out on the floor half way into the song, so it’s a great way to start open dancing.

Anniversary Dance
The anniversary dance gives you an opportunity to recognize the people that have been married the longest. There are two ways that this can work. The first starts with all of the married couples on the floor. You start asking the couples to leave if they have been married a day or less, then a year, and so on until there’s only one couple left. The second way has you start with the bride and groom on the floor then ask for people to join in on the dance floor if they’ve been married for a year or less, then two years then five years, and so on. The second way is great if you have elderly couples that can’t dance for very long, or if you know who the winning couple will be and they can’t dance at all. In this case you can have the DJ announce who they are at the end of the dance. Good songs for this are “Unforgettable” – Nat King Cole, or “Unchained Melody” – The Righteous Brothers. If you know the oldest couple and what their first dance was then using that can be extremely special to them.

Money Dance
The money dance is also not done as often as it used to be. If you have a lot of people at your wedding and won’t have time to go around and talk to everyone then use this dance to let them come to you. The DJ will direct your guests on what to do during this dance. They’ll also keep the people moving through the line. If you have 300 guests and they all want to dance with you, then the DJ will only allow about 10 seconds per guest so the crowd doesn’t get bored and so people in line don’t wait too long. Frank Sinatra style jazz works great here. Songs like “The way you Look Tonight” are perfect here. You may want to through in some slower songs too, but nothing that is too fast. The DJ should have a good play list for this, so either have them play what they want or give them suggestions of what you like.

The DJ will most likely have their own spin on any or all of these dance. Whether it’s roses given to the longest couple, or adding a voice over of your vows to the first dance, listen to the advice they give you. They have seen a lot of weddings and can be a great resource for you.

Dance Music

This is where the fun can begin. You know what you like to dance to and the DJ will want as many suggestions as he can get so he has a starting point for feeling out the crowd. Every crowd is different and some will dance to anything. Other crowds have to be pulled kicking and screaming in order to break the ice. Depending on which one you have will determine how hard your DJ will work to fill that dance floor.

Most weddings will have a wide rang of ages so it’s important to cater to all of them. I like to start the night of by playing some of the older well known songs that everyone can enjoy. This can include some disco, classic rock, Motown, and a few hits from the 50s through 90s. As the night progresses and the older crowd retires to the back of the room I start mixing in the newer music that the younger crowd will go crazy for. This is not perfect for every crowd so I find that I adapt and change throughout every event to find whats right for that crowd. This is why its important for brides and grooms to give there input prior to the reception.

DJs also have group dances at their disposal. Things like the cha cha slide and the cupid shuffle are a easy way to load up the dance floor. Make sure you let the DJ know if you don’t want a specific dance at your wedding. If you hate the chicken dance then put it on the do not play list. Your DJ should already be asking these questions. If they don’t then do the proactive thing and tell them.

Closing thoughts and shameless plug

As a DJ I welcome any suggestions or requests for your wedding. I wouldn’t enjoy being a DJ as much if every event was the same so working closely with a bride and groom to make theirs unique is part of what allows me to have fun too. I can only imagine other DJs feel the same, so don’t hold back your letting us know exactly what you want for your big day.

If you’re in the Phoenix area and looking for a Phoenix DJ for your next event please keep Black Tie DJ PHX in mind.

Thanks for reading.

Awesome Photographer Ely Roberts

Posted on January 25, 2012 by moyeriii

Recently my family and I had the privilege of having our pictures taken by Ely Roberts. He is an amazing San Luis Obisbo photographer that happened to be in the Phoenix area for a wedding. Luckily he had his Saturday morning free for us. Considering how the pictures turned out I would have paid to fly him over for the session.

I’ve followed his work for many years, and quite a few pictures hanging in my house are from his camera. The prints have so much originality and creativity that it highlights his talent in every shot. He admits that even as a kid he was a huge fan of photography. He always had a cameras near by and would take pictures of most of the “adventures” his three brothers and he would have.

Aside from his photography gift, Ely is one of the nicest and humble guys you will meet. He has traveled around the world helping those in need and raising the spirits of everyone he meets. He was raised by parents that believe in good moral values and generosity; two things that Ely has taken to heart and lives his life by.

Below is a small sampling of his work, and you can click on these links to see his portfolio of wedding photos, couple photos, and portraits.

You can book his services through his website www.elyroberts.com. He is available to travel or you may want to visit him in California for some of the best locations for your engagement or couples photos.

As always thanks for reading and when looking for a Phoenix DJ consider Black Tie DJ PHX.

Birthday Song Chart Topper

Posted on January 23, 2012 by moyeriii

Recently I was checking out my Facebook newsfeed and I came across one of my good friend’s posts. She had the song that was on top of the charts when she was born. How fricking cool is that? I’ve never even thought to ask that question until just now. I clicked on the link to the app and started entering my info and gave the app permission to post on my wall.

I hit enter and waited to see what the most important song in the world could have been. Before I could see it I first had to do some survey to verify my age. Hmm sounds plausible. I was too excited to worry about it then. Okay JCPenny was about to find out what my favorite department in their store is. Done now back to the song. ”Waiting for completion” WTF!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Just give me the song!!!!!

Back to JCPenny’s tab. Wait I have to complete offers there too? 1 Silver 2 Gold 4 Plat? I just finished an offer! I took your stupid survey! I started to look through the list of offers. Buy this/try this/signup here. ”I don’t want to, you can’t make me”.

It dawned on me I might be able to cut out the “app middle man” and just google the song. JCPenny tab closed, but what do I see on my facebook wall? My song posted!!!!!!

Knock on Wood – AmiiStewart

Can you believe it? I didn’t have to give any money away or anything. I might have sold a piece of my sole but I’m not sure.

For your convienence I’ve done a quick google search and found this site. Birthday Song Database. It takes a minute to load but you can search for you birthday song there.

As always thanks for reading, and consider Black Tie DJ PHX if you need a Phoenix DJ.

Top 5 Disco Song list that doesn’t include the Village People

Posted on January 21, 2012 by moyeriii

Disco is one of those genres that can get a lot of people groaning when it hits the speakers, but it doesn’t have to be. Sure, there are a lot of over played songs that leave you feeling dirty for liking them, but there are so many good ones too. My goal is to list my top 5 songs and hope that it hits a cord for some of you. At the very least I pray you will be more tolerant of the genre.

1) September – Earth, Wind and Fire

This is one of my favorite songs period. It’s definitively my favorite disco jam. If you hate this one then you might as well stop reading. We may never see eye to eye.

2) Don’t stop ’til You get enough – Michael Jackson

Arguably one of Michael’s best dance songs, but he’s had so many great jams that the debate would be epic. I am a huge fan of this one and play it often at both DJ events and on personal play lists.

3) T.S.O.P. (The Sound of Philadelphia) – MFSB

Another great disco song that just gets you moving. This is memorable but not over played. A must have for 70s/disco themed parties but can work across the board.

4) Boogie Oogie Oogie – Taste of Honey

Listen to that guitar. It’s got a lot of funk to it. Great song.

5) I’m Coming Out – Diana Ross

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Some people can’t get past how the gay community has taken hold of this song. If that’s a big problem for you then pass right by. This is a great song with one of the best hooks. It’s no wonder Puffy sampled from it.

These are just a few of the truly great Disco songs out there. There are a lot of others including newer music like “Murder on the Dancefloor” by Sophie Ellis-Bextor and “If I Ever Feel better” by Phoenix. Jamiroquai has some great disco beats too.

Don’t ever give up on Disco.

Thanks for reading and check out the rest of my site. Black Tie is on Facebook and Google +

Others are being affected by Tom with Home Protection

Posted on January 19, 2012 by moyeriii

Lois Alcosser wrote the linked article on the Wilton Bulletin. It is an interesting read concerning the future of the human race when computerized voices start becoming the norm. It is all revolving around the trend of spam callers like Tom with Home Protection.

http://www.acorn-online.com/joomla15/wiltonbulletin/columns/112359-attachments-now-hear-this.html

Help others fight this type of illegal spam telemarketing. Go to Stop “Tom with Home Protection” to see what you can do.

You can see my experiences with Tom at Tom with Home Protection.

As always, thank you for reading and check out the rest of my site here Phoenix DJ.

Advice from a Phoenix DJ

Experiences and Advice from a Professional Disk Jockey