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Unless you’ve been living under a rock lately, we’re pretty sure you’ve had some pretty incredible earworms stuck in your head for the past month or so. It’s the start of the summer, which means our favorite artists are dropping new songs left and right – and the songs of the 2024 summer are as hot as the weather is predicted to be! Since you and your partner have already proven you’re cool and have great taste (you booked Around Town after all), we’re sure some of the following songs are already on your list of bops you can’t wait to dance to on your big day. 

So to put your minds at ease – or to inspire you – here are a few of our award-winning live musician’s favorites!  

A Bar Song (Tipsy) by Shaboozey

Someone pour me up a double shot of whiskey

They know me and Jack Daniels got a history

There’s a party downtown near Fifth Street

Everybody at the bar gettin’ tipsy

Everybody at the bar gettin’ tipsy

Everybody at the bar gettin’ tipsy… 

Some country flavor, a hint of hip hop, some easy-to-remember lyrics that sum up the mood… it’s no wonder this one is a wedding reception smash hit! We know you and your guests will happily be singing and bouncing along to this fun number that just invites a call and response! 

TEXAS HOLD ‘EM by Beyoncé 

This ain’t Texas (woo), ain’t no hold ’em (hey)

So lay your cards down, down, down, down

So park your Lexus (woo) and throw your keys up (hey)

Stick around, ’round, ’round, ’round, ’round (stick around)

And I’ll be damned if I can’t slow dance with you

Come pour some sugar on me, honey too

It’s a real life boogie and a real life hoedown

Don’t be a b*tch, come take it to the floor now, woo, huh (woo)

This one has been all over TikTok since the Super Bowl, but that hasn’t diminished its catchy power. Fun for all ages, Beyoncé always knows how to bring the party, no matter what genre she’s tackling. 

Espresso by Sabrina Carpenter 

Now he’s thinkin’ ’bout me every night, oh

Is it that sweet? I guess so

Say you can’t sleep, baby, I know

That’s that me, espresso

Move it up, down, left, right, oh

Switch it up like Nintendo

Say you can’t sleep, baby, I know

That’s that me, espresso

Currently the number one song on the Billboard Hot 100, as well as the number one song on Spotify’s Global rankings, no one seems to be able to get these lyrics out of their head – it’s like the song is just as addictive as the caffeine it alludes to. Danceable, fun, this one is guaranteed to have your guests running to the dance floor. 

HOT TO GO! by Chappell Roan 

H-O-T-T-O-G-O, snap and clap and touch your toes

Raise your hands, now body roll, dance it out, you’re hot to go

H-O-T-T-O-G-O, snap and clap and touch your toes

Raise your hands, now body roll, H-O-T-T-O-G-O

H-O-T-T-O-G-O

You can take me hot to go

H-O-T-T-O-G-O

You can take me hot to go

It’s Pride Month! And Chappell Roan is the hottest new thing in the LGBTQ+ music scene, with a new album positively STACKED with bops. HOT TO GO! is one the most fun and danceable though, without having any lyrics that will give your grandma a heart attack. 

Lovin’ on Me by Jack Harlow 

I don’t like no whips and chains

And you can’t tie me down

But you can whip your lovin’ on me, baby

Whip your lovin’ on me, baby

A hip hop jam you can really sink your teeth into, this one speaks to the same part of our souls as some of our classic favorites from high school dances. While it might not be perfect for the older members of your crowd, we know it’s a perfect song to keep the energy going as the older folks head out. 

We Can’t Be Friends by Ariana Grande 

We can’t be friends

But I’d like to just pretend

You cling to your papers and pens

Wait until you like me again

Catchy from the moment it debuted, Ariana Grande once again knocks it out of the park with this upbeat jam – a red herring that hides its somewhat sad lyrics about an unrequited love. While you’re celebrating having found the love of your life, this song is too fun not to sing along with! 

Don’t see your hot new favorite song listed above? Not to worry! The Around Town Entertainment bands are pros for a reason – just include whatever song you can’t stop dancing to in your “Top 3 Song Requests” and we’ll make sure to bring the house down with it on your big day!

It’s a tale as old as time, really: Indie-Acoustica Girl meets EDM Bro; Classic Rock Chick meets R&B Babe; Country Gal meets Latin Lad;  Bossanova Boy meets Death Metal Dude; Chappell Roan They meets Sammy Rae & The Friends Them. You love your partner to death and there are so many wonderfully compatible things about the two of you – it’s why you’re getting married! But what if your musical tastes could not be more different? Great news, your music tastes don’t have to be compatible for the two of you to be! Strong marriages are also built on your differences, not just your similarities, so don’t fret if your musical vibes are polar opposites! Even better news, you made the phenomenal choice to hire Around Town to handle the music for your special day – and we’re as versatile as your tastes! 

You may have noticed from watching clips of our fabulous bands or from checking out our song list, we have a pretty extensive and broad catalogue under our belts! Which means you and your partner don’t need to worry about limiting yourselves when highlighting the songs and genres you like. (Please note that not all genres are in the song list – for example, we don’t perform rap numbers. Also important to note, an additional vocalist may need to be contracted if you’re requesting songs sung in languages that are not English). You can trust our award-winning bands to pay attention to everything you tell us about your taste, as well as read the crowd; we’ll be playing songs that keep your guests dancing all night long! 

But what if you’re worried that your differing tastes in music will make it difficult to select songs that are perfect for your special moments? Or maybe they already are? Have no fear – we’re here to help! Let us start by saying that choosing these songs doesn’t need to be something you sit down in a single night and decide. While we do have our “30 days prior” deadline, that still gives you lots of time to really think about and find your perfect songs. Which is where this series of hot tips is about to come in! 

Spotify has really been focused on honing and improving their platform, algorithm, and, in particular, collaborative features in the last several years. And it’s these collaborative features that we’re gonna reveal and recommend using to help you and your partner find your perfect blend! 

Let’s start broadly: Spotify has a phenomenal feature called “Blends.” This is a fantastic way to get a constantly updated playlist that will have a fun mix of whatever you and your partner are currently listening to. Creating a Blend on Spotify is as easy as making instant noodles, and a fun way to mix your musical tastes with your partner! First things first, both you and your partner need to have Spotify accounts—free or premium, either works. Open up the Spotify app and head over to the “Search” tab. Type in “Blend” and you’ll see the option to create one. Tap on it, then hit “Invite” to send a link to your partner. Once they accept, Spotify will work its magic, combining your favorite tunes into a single, harmonious (and sometimes eclectic) playlist that reflects both of your styles. It’s like a musical marriage, perfectly blending your unique vibes! Whether it’s Coffeehouse Jazz meeting Hip-Hop, or Top 40 jamming with Motown, your Blend will be the fun and informative soundtrack to your tastes. Even more helpfully, each song will have one of your profile pictures next to it, depending on whose current listening the song came from; most helpfully of all, if there’s a song you’re both listening to, both of your profile pictures will appear next to the song! And with that, we’re off to the races. 

Taking our “Blends” idea a step further – welcome to shared or collaborative playlists! Once you’ve started to notice songs that both of you are listening to – or maybe you always had a song or two that you both agreed on, or you each have a few songs that are really important to you – it’s time for a shared playlist. 

Creating a shared playlist on Spotify is a breeze and a fantastic way to bond over, or sift through and narrow down, your favorite tunes with your partner! Start by opening the Spotify app and heading to the “Your Library” tab. Tap on the “Create Playlist” button and give your new playlist a catchy name that’s meaningful to both of you. Once your playlist is set up, hit the “Add Songs” button to start curating your mix. Now, for the magic: tap on the three dots at the top of the playlist, select “Invite collaborators,” and send the link to your partner. Voilà! They can now add, remove, and reorder songs just like you can. Whether you’re blending Folk with Broadway, Disco with Punk Rock, or any other combination of your totally different but equally fabulous tastes, your shared playlist will be the perfect musical expression of your unique connection. It’s also a great way to streamline your choices and figure out the perfect combination of songs for your special moments on your big day!

“I now pronounce you married – you may kiss your spouse!” 

One of the most iconic moments in any wedding, and the one you’ve been waiting for. This is what the day is about, after all! We’re sure you’re all familiar with the many videos floating around the internet of couples who manage to perfectly time their first kiss as a married couple to the horn blare and opening lyrics of Natalie Cole’s famously celebratory This Will Be (An Everlasting Love). And such a celebratory song is a perfect choice for this moment, sharing your first kiss, your first steps as a married couple, in front of all the people who love you most in this world. 

The recessional song is often one that’s forgotten about, almost an afterthought during your planning. After all, there’s so much focus on the processional, the bride’s entrance, your first dance… it’s almost easy to forget that this song sets the tone for the start of your lives together, as it kicks off the first moments. We here at Around Town LOVE a good recessional song, but we know that it’s also a bit of a niche category – celebratory love songs that make you want to cheer and clap and dance a bit for joy. You’ve chosen us for your big day and we know that’s no accident – our award-winning live bands are the best around at bringing the party, elevating the mood, and making sure the music matches the level of joy you and your guests are feeling! 

Trusting us to bring the party of course doesn’t solve what might be your biggest question at this point: what song should you choose?? Have no fear, we’re here to help on that front, too! Below are just a few of our favorites for the happiest moment of your day. 

This Will Be (An Everlasting Love) by Natalie Cole 

…if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it! This one’s a classic and a famous choice for this moment for a reason – the lyrics perfectly encapsulate what’s happening in the moment, the music is nothing but joyous and energetic, and we know part of the reason we all love the song so much is because of its feature in as the closing/credits song in the 1998 Lindsay Lohan classic ‘The Parent Trap.’ Yup, for those who don’t remember, this is the song the film plays as Nick and Elizabeth get married (again) and the 4 begin their lives as a family. Whether conscious or subconscious, we know these feel-good vibes are quickly associated with this song! 

You Make My Dreams (Come True) by Hall & Oates 

This one is just an eternally fun bop. Once again, it has lyrics that suit the moment beautifully, the intro guitar vamp feels anticipatory (ready for that first kiss everyone?), and the song is the perfect tempo to dance/walk out to. And while Hall & Oates’ partnership didn’t survive the test of time, we’re sure yours will, so don’t let that deter you from using the song! It also has the advantage of being a total classic, so no matter the age of your guests, we know they’ll know this one and be feeling the celebratory vibes right along with you! 

Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours) by Stevie Wonder

Stevie Wonder is kind of the king of the celebratory love song – which makes him an absolute hit at weddings. Again, this song is a classic; well-known, well-loved, and immediately recognizable, which means you and your guests will be feeling the joyous vibes from the moment the intro starts. Nothing risky about this one – just guaranteed good vibes! 

Anything Can Happen by Ellie Goulding

Believe it or not, this is another song that’s from an iconic pop culture moment that left fans everywhere cheering for the success of true love. Remember the elevator moment in New Girl when Nick and Jess finally get together? Yup, this song was the one playing under that moment. We’re positive that the anticipatory build of this song and its triumphant chorus will leave you and your guests feeling that same fist-pumping joy every New Girl fan felt when our favorite “will they, won’t they” couple finally said “we will” (the first time)! 

All You Need is Love by The Beatles 

Does it get any more classic? Simple, straightforward, catchy, well-known, well-loved, this song nails the point home like no other. It has the added bonus of once again showing up in an iconic pop culture touchstone – Love, Actually! We’re sure many of you will remember the charming surprise pulled off at the wedding early in the film where the best man surprises the bride & groom with a hidden choir & instrumentalists to serenade them with this song as they begin their journey back up the aisle as husband and wife – and we’re sure that this song will evoke the same joy for you and your guests! 

Of course, the most important part is making sure that your recessional song speaks to you and your now-spouse! A song is never the wrong choice if it’s meaningful to the two of you and perfectly encapsulates your relationship and connection. We’re just there to make sure it’s everything you always knew it would be.

At Around Town Entertainment, we love a parent (or grandparent!) dance, whether it’s a Father/Daughter, Mother/Son, Mother/Daughter, Father/Son, or any other combination that makes the most sense for you and your family on your special day. In a day filled with and centered around a celebration of romantic love that will last forever, this moment stands apart; Highlighting instead the everlasting love of the people who raised you. Touching, often tear-jerking, this is a moment we know your parents have looked forward to since the day you were born. 

We’ve written before about some of our favorite songs to play for these dances, or ways to pick out the song you’d like to dance to for this moment, but today we want to touch on something different. Despite how common this moment is in weddings across the country, there are a surprisingly limited number of songs written to suit its purpose. Even worse, there are a surprising number of songs that sound like they COULD work for your dance with your parent, but we promise they don’t. Don’t believe us? We’ve taken the liberty of listing some songs below that seem, at first glance, like they could work, and then we’ve detailed why they’re maybe not the best choice. 

Van Morrison’s ‘Brown-Eyed Girl’ 

Fathers and brown-eyed daughters love to suggest this one, but let’s start with some of the opening lyrics, shall we? 

“Making love in the green grass,

Behind the stadium with you,

My brown-eyed girl.”

…we think our point is made. 

‘I’ll Always Love My Mama’ by The Intruders 

The opening line of this song quite literally goes: 

“I’ll always love my mama,

She’s my favorite girl”

While the song goes on to talk about how mothers bring us into this world and sacrifice left and right for their children, we think it’s in poor taste to dance to a song on your wedding day that loudly proclaims that your mom is your favorite girl… when you just married your wife. That said, if a wife doesn’t feature in your couple, this song could still be considered appropriate! 

John Mayer’s ‘Daughters’ 

At first listen, this song seems sweet – and the title quite literally involves the word “daughter.” But John Mayer has talked openly about how the song is written as a cautionary tale, saying he wrote it because he thought women didn’t receive enough love from their fathers, which impacted their ability to show love in romantic relationships later in life. 

Additionally, the lyrics “girls become lovers, who turn into mothers” is maybe a little more suggestive than any father wants to be about his daughter’s nocturnal activities with her new spouse. 

‘Butterfly Kisses,’ by Bob Carlisle

Despite being known as one of the more iconic father-daughter dance songs, “Butterfly Kisses” could be one to avoid. Yes, the lyrics are remarkably sweet, but some might find them to be a little too sweet, especially if your relationship with your dad isn’t regularly filled with deep sentimentality. Determining the right song for your moment is highly subjective, and this one just might not be it. It also focuses heavily on a father’s sadness to be saying “goodbye” to his “little girl” as she grows up – and your wedding is a day of celebration! 

‘Heaven,’ by Kane Brown

We love country music for its frequently thoughtful and emotional qualities, which make it a popular genre for weddings! But if you’re thinking about this Kane Brown song for your father-daughter dance, we recommend finding something else. Lyrics like:

 “Lyin’ next to you, in this bed with you, I ain’t convinced’

Cause, I don’t know how, I don’t know how heaven, heaven

Could be better than this” 

…aren’t the most appropriate for this reception moment with your parent.

‘Every Breath You Take,’ by The Police

“Every smile you fake/Every claim you stake/I’ll be watching you”

Can you say creepy? This song has been pretty universally acknowledged as uncomfortable and stalker-ish; Sting himself admitted he wrote it about a very jealous and obsessive love he had for someone. There’s just no denying that it’s probably one of the worst parent dance songs. No one wants their parent, or their new in-laws for that matter, to be “watching” them every step they take, every move they make and every vow they break! 

There are plenty of songs out there that DO work for a dance with your mom or dad, though! Our best advice is to think of songs that were meaningful to you growing up, or that bring a special moment to mind. Then, and this is the important part, look up the lyrics. A lot of people hear the chorus of a song and fall in love with it – and they forget to check the verses for the lyrics that could get them into trouble! No matter what you choose, Around Town’s award-winning live bands have this special moment covered, but we definitely recommend choosing something that won’t have your guests blushing for all the wrong reasons!

Sometimes, crazy as it sounds, a cover is “Simply the Best.” For example, one that immediately and aptly comes to mind is Noah Reid’s cover of Tina Turner’s “The Best.” The song shot back into the limelight in 2018 when Schitt’s Creek featured the cover in one of its most touching episodes, with Reid’s character playing his own original, stripped-down, acoustic cover of the iconic rock power ballad Tina Turner cemented as a classic in its own right in the late 80’s. Both songs are impactful and beautiful, yet utterly different, despite the fact that they are “the same song.” Reid’s cover begs to be used for a slow and intimate moment like your first dance though, where Turner’s original fits perfectly for the moment you first enter your reception as a married couple! 

Hiring a live wedding band, like any of Around Town’s award-winning bands, is the secret to making sure you can use your favorites songs during your special moments – even if they don’t originally seem to fit the vibe! As a live band, we can use reference material to take a song to new heights and depths by changing its genre from the one people might know it best in! Don’t believe us? Here are some killer examples of songs with covers so phenomenal you’ll never have to say “We love this song and its meaning, but its vibe just doesn’t match what we want for that moment at all” again! 

Can’t Take My Eyes Off You 

This classic was first made a hit by Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons in 1967 and is known for its gentle intro, which builds into one of the catchiest horn hooks of all time. If you’re a fan of the “slow build to big finish” then the original version is the one for you! Whether your introduction to the song was on the radio, jamming to your parents’ record collection, seeing Jersey Boys on Broadway, or (our personal favorite) Heath Ledger’s iconic rendition in the 90’s classic ‘10 Things I Hate About You’ – this song is timeless, catchy, and a wedding smash hit. 

Oh what’s that? You love this song but you and your new spouse were really hoping to sway to something a little less bopping for your first dance? Great news! The band known as stories has a stunning, stripped back, slowed down, acoustic version of the song that’s sure to have your guests in tears (the good kind, obviously), featuring Sarah Isen. 

We’re actually going to pause here to let you in on the fun trade secret that stories’ entire purpose is to take favorite classic songs that began their lives a little more on the “rocked out” side and strip them back to reveal the tender acoustic side that lives within. 

You Make My Dreams (Come True) 

Who doesn’t love Hall & Oates’ original bop? An infectious rhythm, a feel good vibe, a guitar hook that grabs you from the moment the song starts… all fantastic reasons to involve this song on your wedding day. The original version of this song is absolutely perfect for the couple with a fun choreographed dance routine for their first dance, or even as a reception entrance or ceremony recessional! 

But you’re a rustic, folk couple that loves the sweet, soft vibe – some “slow dancing, swaying to the music” over a high energy routine, if you will. That works for us! Check out Billie Marten’s Ont’ Sofa cover, a slowed, simple, acoustic version of the song that suddenly places the lyrics at the forefront. 

What if you’re that post-modern couple that loves chic vintage touches in a refurbished warehouse and loves funk music? Guess what – we’ve got you covered too. Give a listen to Scary Pockets’ funky, half-tempo cover featuring Jennah Bell! 

Fun Fact! Scary Pockets is from the minds of the same folks who brought you stories – where stories focuses on acoustic, totally stripped-back covers, Scary Pockets loves to find the pocket and get a little scary. Which is to say, they specialize in funk-pop covers of all your favorites! Wow, we’re really giving away all the industry secrets today, aren’t we? 

Ain’t No Mountain High Enough 

…to keep us from spilling the tea on all the different ways you can play the same song! Here’s another all-out classic from Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell that never fails to bring the heat. We love the original version of this song – who doesn’t? High energy vocals, an upbeat tempo, and percussion that just won’t quit – of course this song is a wedding favorite! But once again, the team over at Scary Pockets has brought us a funk cover that manages to change the vibe just a bit (and slows the tempo slightly for the more novice dancer); and the team at stories busts out a stunning acoustic rendition that has us wondering how more people haven’t been asking for an acoustic version of this Motown hit. 

You probably noticed right away from watching our bands’ videos and checking out our song list that Around Town Entertainment bands are as versatile as they are talented. And it’s this versatility that means we can take your favorite song and, with the help of a little reference material, do it just the way you want it for your special day. You and your spouse aren’t like anyone else – why should your music be any different? 

Ella Fitzgerald’s “Someone to Watch Over Me.” Frank Sinatra’s “The Way You Look Tonight.” Nat King Cole’s “L-O-V-E.” Etta James’ “At Last.” There’s a reason these artists are known as “The Greats” and these songs as some of the most timeless, classic love songs of all time. We here at Around Town Entertainment love these songs and this gorgeous style of music, with its beautiful brass, and rich, swelling vocals. 

If you’re one of our classic couples who loves old romanticism, and a gorgeous classic vintage vibe, we’re sure these songs have crossed your mind as you’ve been planning your music – how could they not? We’d happily recommend all of them for your big day and special moments; they’re standards, totally classic, guaranteed hits. We also understand though if you have that little voice in the back of your head going “…does classic run the risk of being overdone?” 

First of all, no, not at all. Classic is classic for a reason! Some things truly never go out of style and these big band, jazzy, soulful numbers have safely ensconced themselves in that category. However, we’re also happy to say that there are ways for you to still have that sweeping romantic jazz feel – without picking an old jazz standard!

There’s been a recent comeback, or resurgence in the sweeping, romantic, symphonic, big band, jazz sound in contemporary music with artists like Laufey, Cody Fry, Jacob Collier, Jon Batiste, Sammy Rae & the Friends, Olivia Dean, Adele, and Ben Rector at the forefront of the movement, along with cover artists like Postmodern Jukebox, or stories. 

These artists and others like them infuse their music with rich orchestration, incorporating elements like brass, strings, and woodwinds to create a full-bodied sound that harks back to the golden age of big band music. Their compositions often feature soaring melodies, intricate harmonies, and dynamic shifts, evoking a sense of nostalgia and romance – perfect for a wedding where you’re blending the idea of rich romance with the idea something that can last forever – just like this classic style of music. 

Moreover, the revival of this sound speaks to a broader trend of artists rediscovering and reimagining classic genres and styles. By blending elements of jazz, classical, and pop, these artists are creating a unique sonic landscape that appeals to both old-school aficionados and contemporary music lovers alike – which makes it ideal for a classic yet contemporary wedding, and is sure to keep all your guests feeling like the music is familiar to them, from grandma to your girl friends! 

Of course, we wouldn’t rave about these artists or throw this idea out there without having some fabulous examples to back it up! Here are just a few of our favorite suggestions our award-winning live bands can play that could fit beautifully into your evening – a lot of them make for stunning first dances. 

“Best Friend” by Laufey – an ideal tempo for a calm, sweet, soothing first dance, this song has a romantic timeless vibe and lyrics that express a deep and genuine affection, capturing the essence of a strong bond between two people. Perfect for newlyweds that know their deep friendship is at the heart of their passionate love; and as a bonus, the lyrics have a few clever little jokes that will leave you and your guests laughing at its poignancy. 

“I Hear a Symphony” by Cody Fry – this song is deceptive and perfect for couples looking for a choreographed dance moment. It begins very softly and simply and builds to a lush and rich musical moment as the lyrics describe how someone went from hearing a simple song as they went through their life, to hearing a full symphony each time they look at their love. It’s the musical and aural equivalent to the “I met you and now the world is technicolor” sentiment! If you ever wanted to feel like the main characters of a movie, this song is the perfect soundtrack, with its deceptive simplicity magically transforming into a sweeping romantic movement that will leave your guests in tears (the good kind). 

“I Get It Now” by Sammy Rae & The Friends – This one is brand-spanking new, so we aren’t surprised if you haven’t heard it yet! Once again lush yet simple, this song beautifully describes how the love you spent years trying to make happen turned out to be something so simple and effortless with the right person. Believe it or not, it’s the bands’ first love song – and we think it hits the mark perfectly. Slow and steady, just like your love, this song is another perfect option for a first dance – its structure simultaneously classic and flowing, allowing for that lovely jazz sound. 

What if the song that means the most to you and your partner doesn’t match the vibe of your wedding? Say you’ve planned this gorgeous classic, romantic, timeless day, but your favorite song that you’d like to use for your first dance or other part of your big day just doesn’t seem to fit musically. Well, that’s the most beautiful part of your brilliant choice to hire our incredibly talented live musicians: we can change the style of a song. Think of Postmodern Jukebox taking contemporary songs and giving them a retro makeover – we can do something similar! In the same way that artists will often release acoustic covers of their music or someone else’s, we can take the song that’s most meaningful to you and shift its style so that it suits the vibe you’re looking for! 

When it comes to crafting the perfect ambiance for your wedding day, the choice between a live wedding band and a DJ is a decision that can shape the entire atmosphere of your celebration. And let’s be honest, this decision is a big one—it’s not just about music; it’s about creating moments that will be cherished for a lifetime! So, why should you choose our live wedding bands over a DJ? Let’s dive into the reasons why this choice can truly elevate your special day.

First and foremost, let’s talk atmosphere. Picture this: you’re surrounded by your closest friends and family, the love in the air is palpable, and as you take to the dance floor for your first dance as a married couple, the sound of a live band fills the room with soul-stirring melodies. There’s an energy, a vibrancy that comes with live music that simply can’t be replicated by recorded tracks. The presence of our talented musicians and vocalists adds a level of sophistication and elegance to your wedding that sets the stage for an unforgettable experience. Their professionalism and experience are unmatched, and are skilled at quickly reacting and adjusting to whatever is happening in the moment, whether you need a longer intro to reach the dance floor, or a shorter ending to the cake cutting in case of a frosting fiasco! 

But it’s not just about the music—it’s about the interaction, the connection between the performers and your guests. With our award-winning live wedding bands, you get more than just music; you get a fully immersive entertainment experience. From engaging with the crowd to reading the room and adjusting their performance on the fly, our live bands bring a level of spontaneity and excitement that keeps the energy high and the dance floor packed all night long. It’s this interactive element that creates moments of pure magic, where you and your guests feel truly connected to the music and each other.

Now let’s talk customization. One of the greatest advantages of choosing an Around Town live band is the ability to tailor your music selection to reflect your unique style and personality as a couple. Whether you’re into classic hits, modern chart-toppers, or a mix of genres, our talented bandleaders can curate a setlist that perfectly suits your taste and sets the tone for your celebration. From romantic ballads to high-energy dance tunes, the versatility of a live band ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy, creating a personalized soundtrack for your special day that will be remembered for years to come.

Perhaps the most compelling reason of all to choose a live wedding band over a DJ is the undeniable power of a live performance. There’s something truly magical about witnessing musicians and vocalists come together to create music in real-time. The raw emotion, energy, and talent of live performers add an extra layer of depth and authenticity to your wedding day, elevating the entire experience to new heights. Whether it’s the soulful strains of a vocalist or the infectious rhythm of a drummer, the sight and sound of live music create moments that are not only memorable but truly transformative.

Of course, versatility is also key when it comes to choosing the right entertainment for your wedding day. Around Town’s highly-lauded bands can cover a wide range of musical styles and genres, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re planning an elegant ballroom affair or a laid-back outdoor celebration, our versatile bands can adapt their performance to suit the unique vibe of your event, keeping the party going from start to finish. From classic rock to Motown classics, we can cater to diverse musical tastes and create an atmosphere that is as unique as you are as a couple.

But let’s not forget about the lasting memories that live music can create. Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime celebration, and the music you choose will play a central role in shaping the memories you’ll cherish for years to come. From the first dance to the last song of the night, the presence of live performers adds an extra layer of emotion and intimacy to your special day, creating moments that will be etched in your heart forever. Whether it’s the soul-stirring lyrics of a love ballad or the infectious energy of a hit dance song, the music becomes a soundtrack to your love story, weaving its way into the fabric of your memories and reminding you of the magic of your wedding day.

Of course, we would be remiss not to sing the praises of our fabulous after party DJs! We know you party animals don’t want the night to end, so we do offer the option to keep the celebration going just a little bit longer with DJ’s available to book in advance. They’re there to bring the heat with some of the more “club” numbers your grandma may wish to miss – so the timing is perfect since she’ll likely be in bed by the time you’re ready for an after party! 

To sum up, choosing an Around Town live wedding band over a DJ for the bulk of your day offers a multitude of benefits that can truly elevate your special day. From creating an unforgettable atmosphere to providing interactive entertainment, customization, and a lasting experience that will be cherished for a lifetime, live music brings a level of sophistication and authenticity to your wedding that simply can’t be matched. So, as you plan your dream wedding, consider the power of live music to transform your celebration into a moment you’ll never forget.

What do Lawrence, Billy Joel, September, Whitney Houston, Sammy Rae & the Friends, Silk Sonic, and KC & The Sunshine Band all have in common? A few things, believe it or not! First, they all have incredible songs that are perfect for your wedding – whether it’s a classic like “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” or a newer hit like “Leave the Door Open” these tunes are sure to get your guests’ feet moving and hips grooving. They also all involve instruments that we here at Around Town happen to love – horns.  

Horns are having quite the comeback lately, especially with the rise in popularity for retro pop artists like Laufey, Lawrence, Lake Street Dive, Sammy Rae & the Friends, Cody Fry, Cory Wong, Vulfpeck, Cory Wong, and Jon Batiste. These bands and solo artists infuse their music with a diverse range of influences, blending genres such as funk, jazz, pop, and rock to create a fresh and eclectic sound that appeals to contemporary audiences seeking something different from mainstream pop. The genre itself often incorporates elements of classic funk, soul, and R&B, which have a timeless quality that transcends generations. The music tends to evoke a sense of nostalgia for past musical eras, such as the 70s and 80s, which resonates with both older audiences who experienced these periods firsthand, and younger listeners who are drawn to the vintage sound and style.This appeal to a broad audience base contributes to the growing popularity. It’s also what makes it such a perfect genre to incorporate into your wedding and reception – it’s one of the few parties you’ll throw in your life that has such a diverse guest list, ranging from your grandparents to your nieces and nephews, with all your friends and family in between. 

With this in mind, it’s important to think about how to get all of those diverse guests out on the dance floor – and we think that horns are your answer. We’ll start by raving about all the fabulous qualities horns bring to the band’s sound, and in case we haven’t convinced you they’re a great idea by then, we’ll also bust out a list of just how many incredible party songs involve horns. And hey, if we happen to give you ideas for your song requests or special moments, fantastic! 

Horns, whether a saxophone, trumpet, or trombone, can be a unique and exciting addition to a wedding band for several reasons:

1. Unique Sound: Horns add a distinctive and rich sound to the music, enhancing the overall auditory experience for guests! Their presence can elevate the atmosphere and make the wedding celebration more memorable. 
2. Versatility: Horns are versatile instruments that can adapt to various music genres, including classical, jazz, pop, and more. This versatility allows our live wedding bands to cater to diverse musical preferences among guests, ensuring that everyone finds something to enjoy
   
3. Elegant Aesthetic: Brass instruments, particularly trumpets and saxophones, have a very elegant and sophisticated appearance that can complement the formal ambiance of a wedding ceremony or reception. They can also add a touch of glamor to the band’s visual presentation – nothing quite literally shines like the light catching on a brass instrument!
   
4. Energy and Excitement: The vibrant and dynamic sound of horns can inject energy and excitement into the performance, encouraging guests to dance and celebrate throughout the event. This lively atmosphere contributes to the overall enjoyment of the wedding festivities and keeps toes tapping. No one can stand still at a New Orleans Mardi Gras parade, or in the presence of a Parisian sidewalk jazz quartet – your wedding music should have the same effect on your guests: giving them the irresistible urge to dance!
   
5. Memorable Performance: Incorporating horns into the wedding band creates a unique and memorable musical experience for the couple and their guests. It adds a special touch to the celebration, making it stand out from typical wedding entertainment options. Whether it’s a soulful saxophone solo during the first dance or a brass fanfare to announce the newlyweds, horns have the power to make key moments in the wedding ceremony and reception even more special and unforgettable.
   
6. Professionalism and Quality: Hiring horn players also demonstrates a commitment to professionalism and quality entertainment, which signals to your guests that you’ve invested in your wedding band, and the band has invested in talented musicians who will deliver an exceptional performance. This attention to detail can enhance the overall aesthetic of the wedding and leave a lasting impression on attendees.

Overall, horns can be the perfect addition to a live wedding band, offering a combination of unique sound, versatility, elegance, energy, and memorable performance that enhances the overall wedding experience! 

Now that we’ve convinced you to add horns to your Around Town band, it would be just rude of us not to include a few killer song suggestions to help you utilize them! 

• “Celebration” by Kool & The Gang: This iconic funk and disco anthem features lively horn arrangements that are perfect for getting guests on the dance floor and setting a celebratory mood.
• “September” by Earth, Wind & Fire: Featuring vibrant horns and irresistible grooves, this disco-funk masterpiece is an excellent choice for bringing joy and energy to the dance floor.
• “Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours)” by Stevie Wonder: With its upbeat tempo and soulful horn arrangements, this feel-good classic is perfect for celebrating your love and commitment.
• “My Girl” by The Temptations: This soulful Motown ballad, complete with beautiful horn arrangements, is a romantic choice for special moments like the first dance or father-daughter dance! 
• “Boogie Shoes” by KC & The Sunshine Band: As soon as the horn riff hits the opening notes, you can hear the crowd cheer and see the energy lift. A great mid-tempo song, even older hips and knees can get into the groove of this one! 
• “Do You Wanna Do Nothing with Me?” by Lawrence: With its sweet, funny and romantic lyrics, laid-back groove, and soulful horn arrangements, this song is ideal for slow dances or romantic moments during the reception.

And these are just the songs that already have horns in their arrangements! You’ll be amazed at how many songs that don’t originally have horns in their arrangements are utterly elevated by their addition. We can certainly promise that adding horns to your live wedding band will make for a night to remember and a dance floor to never forget!