Do-Not-Play Lists: Why They're Just as Important as Requests

Because the music you don’t hear matters just as much as the songs you love.

When planning your wedding, party, or big event, you’ve probably started thinking about the must-play songs—the ones that bring you joy, get your friends hyped, or hold special meaning. And yes, your request list is super important. But there’s another playlist you might not have thought much about yet… and it’s a total game-changer.

Enter: the Do-Not-Play List.

This unsung hero of the music world ensures your night stays on-brand, on-vibe, and 100% you.

💡 What Is a Do-Not-Play List?

Exactly what it sounds like—a list of songs, artists, or genres that you don’t want to hear at your event.

Maybe it’s songs that feel overplayed, remind you of an ex, or just drive you crazy (looking at you, “Cha-Cha Slide”). The Do-Not-Play list gives your DJ a clear picture of what not to touch, no matter how many people yell requests from the dance floor.

🎯 Why It Matters:

1. Protects the Vibe You Want

You’ve worked hard to create a vibe—romantic, elegant, hype, nostalgic, chill. One wrong song can totally throw that off. Your Do-Not-Play list helps keep things consistent and curated.

📝 Real Talk: One couple’s classy cocktail hour was instantly derailed by a well-meaning guest requesting “Baby Shark.” Don’t let it happen to you.

2. Saves You from Awkward Moments

Maybe there’s a song that reminds you of a breakup. Or a guest who always insists on their “guilty pleasure” track that makes you cringe. Listing it ahead of time gives your DJ permission to politely say “no” without putting the blame on you.

3. Keeps Guests Happy Without Compromising Your Style

Your DJ is trained to read the room and respond to the crowd—but that doesn’t mean every request should be played. A Do-Not-Play list helps set boundaries while still giving the crowd what they want.

4. Shows Your Personality

Your Do-Not-Play list is just as personal as your request list. It gives insight into your tastes, humor, and pet peeves. Some clients have even turned it into a fun activity:

💡 Pro Tip: Add a space on your RSVP cards for guests to list one song to play—and one song not to play!

🎵 Common Do-Not-Play Offenders:

• “The Chicken Dance”

• “Macarena”

• “YMCA”

• “WAP” (…depending on the crowd!)

• Anything by an ex’s favorite band

• Country/rap/EDM (if it’s not your vibe)

• Explicit versions of songs (especially for family-friendly events)

Remember: there’s no right or wrong answer—it’s YOUR night.

🙋‍♂️ DJ Insight: I’m On Your Team

As a DJ, I’m not just there to press play—I’m there to create a musical experience that reflects you. Your Do-Not-Play list is one of the best tools to help me do that. So don’t hold back. Be honest. Be specific. I’d much rather have a clear no-go list than take a risk that makes you cringe on the dance floor.

Final Thought:

Music is powerful—it triggers memories, shapes the energy, and sets the tone. The right song can give you chills. The wrong one can ruin a moment.

So when you’re crafting your soundtrack, remember this: the songs you leave out are just as important as the ones you put in.

Let’s make your event unforgettable—for all the right reasons. 🎧💫