Frequently Asked Questions

What sets you apart from other DJs?

There are three things that set us apart. The first is that we have more than two decades of experience. We know how to handle all aspects of your event and ensure it is handled in the best way possible. Second, we make it our mission that you and your guests have an amazing experience at each and every event. Third, we upgrade our knowledge, music, equipment, and performance on a continual, ongoing basis.

What type of events do you DJ?

Due to our passion and love for DJing, we perform at a wide variety of events. These include weddings, birthday parties, anniversary parties, corporate events, holiday parties, grand openings, block parties, club and bars, to name a few. In each instance and at every event, we will work with you in order to develop a customized, fun experience for everyone.

How long have you been a DJ?

Yours truly, DJ Dave Gilman, started as a DJ in college in 1993 and began doing it professionally in 1996, working for Daffy’s Professional DJs. We were booked nearly every weekend and performed at a variety of events. This ultimately led to forming DJ Dave Gilman in 2000. Been doing it ever since and loving every event.

Where do you travel as a DJ?

We proudly provide entertainment and DJ services in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. In some instances, we can also travel outside of New England if the event is a great fit and accommodates our schedule.

What is your announcement or “MC” style as a DJ?

Our style as a DJ is that of a cordial host. We make announcements when guests need to be informed of an upcoming activity, when the crowd needs a little motivation, or if we need to get things moving in a new direction. We never try to take center stage as the focus of your event should be on the guests and/ or the guest of honor.

What type of music do you have in your collection?

Our music spans from the 1950s to today’s current Billboard hits. Our collection features the most sought after music in the following genres that includes pop, R&B, 80s, 90s, funk & soul, Motown, hip hop, dance, electronic, EDM, rock, disco, alternative, reggae, dancehall, and more! If we don’t have it, we can also get it.

Do you have clean edits of songs?

Yes, our entire music collection consists of clean edits—also known as radio edits—for all of our songs. We do this largely because we cater to a wide variety of audiences that include children, adults, and grandparents at a variety of events. In most instances, the words that might offend are substituted or taken out completely.

Do you accept playlists?

We do accept playlists and receive them from clients all the time. Some people like to suggest every song for the entire event. Others may not want to get involved other than suggesting a small handful of songs or genres that they love. We generally suggest you provide 10 to 20 songs that you and your guests will absolutely love. We also ask that you provide a do-not-play list as well.

Do you take guest song requests?

Yes, we always take guest requests, but with several considerations in mind. If the guest’s request fits in with the theme, vibe, or the host’s direction, we will play it. If the song requested isn’t appropriate, doesn’t fit in, or will negatively affect the event, we will ask the guest if there is something else they’d like to hear.

What are the payment and retainer requirements?

We require a $300 non-refundable retainer deposit to secure and hold your date. This can be paid by cash, check, or credit card. The final balance payment is due two weeks prior to the event. For larger events and those booked months/year in advance, some people prefer installment payments. In that case, we can create a payment plan.

How far in advance should we book with you?

There’s no hard and fast rule on how far in advance you should book your event. We suggest as soon as possible as our open dates are limited and can fill up quickly. We receive a lot of referrals, and it is not uncommon for us to have events scheduled one to two years in advance. 

Do you arrive early for set-up?

Yes. We arrive a minimum of one to three hours before an event begins. This ensures adequate time to get set up, perform sound and mic tests, set up and check the dance floor lights, change our attire, and get in position to start on time. A big part of that is coordination with the venue prior to the event to inquire as to how early we can arrive (many venues will book back-to-back functions). 

Can you help us with our song selections?

We love consulting with our clients! We have music collections meticulously organized by genre, year, artist, event type, most requested, and more. This enables us to be make well informed suggestions for any special event and at any specific point during the event. Allow us to put our 20+ years of music knowledge to help you.

Can you help us with our timeline and agenda?

We often call ourselves “traffic coordinators” or “quasi-event” planners. Not everybody hires an event planner for their special event. When this occurs, we can help you plan out every aspect of your event.  From the moment the event starts to the last song of the night, we’ll work with you to ensure we have a sound timeline and agenda.

Have you played at our venue before?

We have played at hundreds of venues across New England and all the way out to Phoenix, Arizona. In some instances, we are playing a venue for the first time. In those cases, we will coordinate with the venue ahead of time to create a set up that offers the best experience for everyone. We come prepared to encounter any setup challenges.

Do you have insurance?

Yes. We have liability insurance with a premier entertainment insurance agency. This covers any event that we perform at. Many venues will request a proof of insurance certificate and we can provide in an instant. This covers lawsuits, accident claims, and third-party property damage claims. Simply put, we’ve got you covered.

Do you have backup equipment?

We have several layers of backup and are always prepared. That starts by purchasing the highest quality of equipment, lessening the chance of any possible malfunctions. Our philosophy is to have a duplicate for most of our equipment and set up. This includes two laptops, two microphones, a backup speaker, additional cables and wires if things need to be swapped out, and more.

Will you play the Chicken Dance song?

After 20 years of taking song requests, the Chicken Dance holds the title of the most loved or disliked requested song of all time. If it ends up on the must play list, we will play it. If it ends on the do not play list, we will not play it—even under threat of a larger gratuity. We will always honor your requests. What list will you put the Chicken Dance on?

Let’s Get the Party Started!

About DJ Dave

DJ Dave Entertainment™ has been delighting crowds in the Metrowest and Greater Boston area, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire, for the past 25 years with our DJ services, experienced emcees (MCs/Master of Ceremonies) and entertainment services, including wedding DJ services. Our mission is to play the right music, at the right time, for the right event. Let’s chat about how we can make your wedding, anniversary, corporate event, or some other celebration extra-special!

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Text or Call (978) 254-1155

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